New artisanal food and drink venue launches in Melton Mowbray

A new destination for food and drink producers to manufacture and sell artisan produce has been unveiled in Melton Mowbray – aka the Rural Capital of Food.

The Stockyard, situated in Melton Mowbray Market, already plays host to companies including Round Corner Brewing, the Melton Premium Craft Distillers and Simply Chocolate alongside butchers, bakers and pork pie makers.

Smoked food specialist Feast and the Furious will also be relocating to the site this year.

Hugh Brown, CEO of site operator Gillstream Markets, said: “I am delighted to launch the Stockyard, recognising Melton Mowbray’s heritage and future as a key food and drink manufacturing centre and a destination for food and drink lovers nationwide.

“We already have a number of artisan food and drink manufacturers and retailers on site, but there is tremendous scope at the Stockyard to create an eclectic mix of producers in this unique agri-chic environment. It provides the perfect opportunity for new and expanding enterprises to have a place in the heart of the Rural Capital of Food and we look forward to additional food and drink businesses joining us over the coming months.”

The Stockyard, working in conjunction with Melton Borough Council, is part of the wider Food Enterprise Centre in the borough, building on the area’s rich food heritage.

Melton Mowbray Market predates the Domesday Book and moved from its various locations in the central streets of town to its current site in 1869 as part of the Melton Mowbray Cattle Market Act.

The former chicken shed is now the Fur & Feather bar, adjoining a distillery operated by Melton Premium Craft Distillers, while opposite is the brewery and taproom for Round Corner Brewing.

Combie Cryan, co-founder of Round Corner Brewing, said: “We are delighted to be an anchor tenant of the Stockyard. In the four years since our opening, we have played a key role in raising the profile of the market and drawing weekend visitors.

“We have created the perfect place for our brewery and taproom and, alongside our many amazing neighbours, we are looking forward to playing a key role in the future of this exciting newly branded Stockyard, which builds on the history of Melton Mowbray’s long links to agriculture and the food and drink sector.”