Exciting new venue for Food and Drink Awards ceremony

Marketing Derby’s Food and Drink Awards will take place at the heart of the city centre in a new venue for 2026 – the beautifully restored Derby Market Hall.

Opened in May last year following a stunning multi-million-pound transformation, the Derby City Council-owned building is today home to a diverse range of contemporary and traditional market stalls, all under one roof.

It features handcrafted treasures from local artists and makers, as well as stalls serving the very best produce from across Derbyshire and the East Midlands.

In addition to permanent retail stalls, there is also an everchanging line-up of pop-up traders, creating a vibrant community of independent businesses selling an assortment of products you won’t find anywhere else.

The Market Hall has also proven itself a great place to hold events – including its own programme of free entertainment and markets.

Councillor Nadine Peatfield, leader of Derby City Council, said: “Derby Market Hall has welcomed food lovers from across our city for generations, so it’s fantastic that the Marketing Derby Food and Drink Awards 2026 will be held here for the first time.

“These awards shine a well-deserved spotlight on the incredible businesses that make Derby a true culinary destination.

“I can’t wait to welcome guests and celebrate the talent, creativity and hard work driving our local hospitality sector.”

During the same week as the Marketing Derby Food & Drink Awards, the Market Hall will play host to Derby CAMRA’s Derby Heritage Beer Festival.

The awards ceremony will take place on Monday 12 October – with the four-day beer festival starting on Wednesday 14 October.

Attendees at the awards ceremony will be able to get a sneaky first taste of some of the festival’s beers.

To find out more about Derby Market Hall click here.