Whitehaven: Eat Street Cumbria arrives with 'huge success'

Eat Street Cumbria made its debut in Whitehaven on November 16, and attracted a huge number of visitors, with 80 per cent of the traders at the market selling out of food.

Local entrepreneur Aaron Groggins had a dream of bringing together the area's favourite eateries under one vibrant roof, in a celebration of food, flavour and nightlife in Cumbria.

The market ran on November 16 in Whitehaven. (Image: Finley Todhunter) And he is delighted with how things went on November 16, as thousands descended on the centre in less than six hours.

He said: "It was a huge success. We had between 4,000 and 5,000 in footfall in less than six hours from 1pm to 7pm, and 80 per cent of our traders sold out of food.

"Whitehaven you have just proven that you need and want more of Eat Street Cumbria, this is something we want and something our local business needs! Watch this space, onwards and upward from here, remember this was our debut!

"Some may see the negatives of slightly longer ques or or a busy site, however all our traders food is fresh, made to order and full of 100% local vendors."

80 per cent of stalls sold out of food. (Image: Finley Todhunter) In a previous interview with the News & Star, Aaron laid out his hopes and expectations for his new venture. 

He said: "Cumbria has so much to offer in terms of food and culture. Eat Street Cumbria is about showcasing that potential, supporting our local businesses, and creating a hub where people can come together to enjoy great food, music, and company.

“We’re not just building a market; we’re building a community. I’m driven by a love for this region and its potential. I believe that when we lift each other up, incredible things can happen.

"Eat Street Cumbria is a testament to that belief—it’s about taking risks, embracing creativity, and building something special together."

Aaron suggests that over 4,000 were in attendance (Image: Finley Todhunter) Dates for future markets are yet to be confirmed but after a 'huge success' in its debut event in Whitehaven, this won't be the last Cumbrians see of Eat Street Cumbria.