Marmalade makers and jam pans around the world are at the ready, as the eighteenth Dalemain World Marmalade competition opens.

Thousands of exotic versions of this quintessentially British product are expected to fly, sail and drive their way to the home of the Marmalade Awards, Dalemain Mansion in Cumbria.

There are a range of Marmalade Exchanges dotted around the country including Fortnum & Mason, Piccadilly and Rathbones offices.

People can deposit their entry and get a jar in return or submit it to the marmalade express on the West Coast line.

“The Homemade competition is pushing the marmalade boundaries. There is an organic category Marmalade for the King, to mark King Charles’ Coronation with Paddington Bear helping to judge.

“We are also challenging the creativity of entrants to make new combinations with infusions of tea, vegetables from the garden and honey.

“The category Rathbones Generations Together celebrates the wisdom of experience with the experimental approach of youth.” Said Jane Hasell-McCosh Founder.

These little pots of gold are helping to light up the darkest of months and the magic of the awards lies in the fact that everyone is a winner.

People take part from nearly all the counties in the UK and from over 40 countries around the world and receive feedback and a certificate to celebrate their entry.

All the entry money is donated to Hospice charities worldwide with over a quarter of a million pounds raised since its inception.

There is also an Artisan, Hotel and Bed & Breakfast competition.

We provide a platform for commercial marmalade makers.

All commercial entries receive roundels to display on their jars and the chance to be stocked in Fortnum & Mason’s Piccadilly store.

The competition opens from Monday January 2 and closes on Sunday February 5.

The winners are announced at the Dalemain Marmalade Awards and Festival on April 22 2023.