09/05/2026
What to Buy in May
After a lingering winter and a damp spring, May finally delivers the first true bounty of the year. The star of the show is undoubtedly English asparagus. For the best flavour, buy it fresh from the market and cook it within hours—simply steamed with butter or tossed with local goat’s cheese and pine nuts. As the month progresses, these spears become the perfect addition to risottos and seasonal tarts.
From the Land and Sea:
Seafood: Look for wild sea trout, lemon sole, and sea bass. Shellfish lovers should keep an eye out for razor clams and cockles.
Spring Lamb: Early-season lamb is exceptionally tender, while salt marsh lamb arrives toward the end of May. Pair it with new potatoes, fresh mint, and samphire (briefly boiled and tossed in butter) to highlight its natural saltiness.
Beef & Pork: As grazing pastures green up, local steaks and chops become incredibly succulent—ideal for quick grilling or stir-frying.
Fresh Greens & Produce:
The vegetable stalls are transforming. Alongside the last of the purple sprouting broccoli and spring cabbage, you will find:
New Potatoes: Early English varieties are finally ready to rival the Jerseys.
Salad Leaves: Spinach, watercress, rocket, and radishes are back, making lighter spring meals an easy choice.
Sweet Treats:
While summer berries are still on the horizon, green outdoor rhubarb is the current highlight. Use it for homemade ice cream, fools, or a tart ginger-infused jam. By late May, keep a lookout for the first gooseberries. For a classic seasonal pairing, cook them with a head of fragrant elderflower to create the perfect base for crumbles or panna cotta.
Sunday 9.30am to 1.30pm
Sovereign Way
TN9 1RG
Customers wishing to get an email reminder for the market can do so by clicking here https://tonbridgefarmersmarket.eo.page/w3d62 or for a text reminder, text “Tonbridge” to 07557739903.