Manor Walks Shopping & Leisure has been shortlisted for a prestigious national award after its popular Makers & Bakers Market was recognised for its contribution to supporting local businesses and strengthening the local community.
The Cramlington shopping and leisure destination has been named a finalist in the Community Initiative of the Year category at the Sceptre Awards 2026, the UK’s leading awards celebrating excellence across the shopping centre industry.
Launched in 2019 with just 20 independent traders, the monthly Makers & Bakers Market has grown into one of the North East’s largest artisan markets, now regularly welcoming more than 60 local businesses. The market has become a key fixture in the Manor Walks calendar, providing independent traders, makers and food producers with a platform to showcase their products, reach new customers and grow their businesses.
Delivered in partnership with Events2GoGo, who recruit and manage the independent traders, the Makers & Bakers Market has continued to evolve into a vibrant community event that attracts thousands of visitors while championing local enterprise and creating opportunities for small businesses to flourish.
The Community Initiative of the Year category recognises projects that deliver a meaningful social and economic impact within their communities, celebrating shopping centres that go beyond traditional retail to create lasting positive change.
Nick Lambert, Centre Manager at Manor Walks Shopping & Leisure, said:
“We’re absolutely delighted to have been shortlisted at the Sceptres. Makers & Bakers has become so much more than a monthly market, it’s a thriving community of talented local businesses who bring something unique to Manor Walks and Cramlington.”
Fiona Harnett, Director of Events2GoGo, said:
“We’re incredibly proud to work alongside the Manor Walks team to deliver Makers & Bakers each month. To see the initiative recognised is fantastic and reflects the strength of the partnership, the quality of our traders and the continued support from the local community. We wish Manor Walks the very best of luck at the awards.”
The winners of the Sceptre Awards 2026 will be announced later this year.
For more information about the Makers & Bakers Market, including upcoming market dates and trader enquiries, visit our event page or follow Manor Walks on social media.