Following weeks of lockdown, Radio Harrow ventured outdoors over the August Bank Holiday
The Duck Pond Market has been running since its creation in 2008 at the manor farm site in Ruislip, and specialises in interesting, local, ethical and sustainable shopping. This year the event expanded into Gunnersbury Park in Ealing.
Radio Harrow visited the Duck Pond Market at Gunnersbury Park to explore how local businesses were adapting to the challenges of the pandemic. The market, which operates near Ealing and Acton Town, has become a vital community hub. Its founder, Karen, established the market twelve years ago in Ruislip to provide a space for local, ethically made, and sustainable goods. She expanded to Gunnersbury Park after the park lost its primary income source when its cafe burned down.
The market now hosts a diverse range of entrepreneurs who launched or pivoted their businesses during the lockdowns. Jason from Kinder Deli shared his journey toward plant based eating, offering healthy alternatives like gluten free cakes and vegan burgers. Similarly, Louis started a houseplant business called Plant Assassins after losing his previous job due to COVID-19. He noted a surge in interest as people looked to improve their home environments with air purifying greenery like snake plants.
Artisanal food and crafts also take center stage. John from Little Urban Chef brings a taste of South France to the park with his popular chicken and chorizo paella. Alexandra of One Girl Studio showcased her eco friendly greeting card brand, which features bold art deco designs and supports the NHS. Even the Gunnersbury Park Museum has reopened with limited hours to celebrate local history, despite facing significant setbacks from a fire that gutted its cafe and carriage gallery.
Visitors and traders alike emphasized the importance of the market’s outdoor, socially distanced environment. It provides a much needed sense of normalcy and community connection during a difficult year. With upcoming dates scheduled through September, the Duck Pond Market remains a beacon of local resilience and creativity.
Find out more about Duck Pond Market.