Friday 4 November 2011

Head to the West Country for some early Christmas shopping!

The bustle of half-term went by in a flash, and now’s your chance to enjoy some calmer days here in the West Country. Why not gently start the run up to Christmas with some leisurely shopping , and treat your friends and family to some authentic West Country Christmas gifts?

Don’t forget, if you can’t get away for a full week, 2, 3 and 4 night short breaks are now available at many of our holiday cottages.

Start with the Trereife Christmas Gift Fair, 18th to 20th November. Not far from Penzance, this Queen Anne manor house and its spectacular grounds provide an atmospheric venue for visitors to soak up a heady dose of festive spirit, whilst picking up some unique Cornish gifts. Plenty of music, a children’s lantern procession and working craft demonstrations, all in a cosy, heated marquee. Sort through your goodies at Z18.

The Wonderworks craft fair is held at Chagford Jubilee Hall, on 19th and 20th November. Now in its ninth year, the fair has made its mark with an unusual and varied collection of high quality arts and craftware, with everything from designer socks (pictured right) to ceramics. Meet the artists as you wander round and find unique and affordable Christmas presents for everyone. Toast your toes in those stylish socks at A157.

On the banks of the Tamar River, Cotehele is one of the best places to stock up on special Christmas gifts. The £2 entrance cost to the Cotehele Christmas Food Fair, on 26th and 27th November, includes admission to the Great Hall to see the Christmas garland. Or come earlier from 12th to 14th November to join the garden team making the 60ft garland, which runs the length of the Hall. Weave your own garland at J17.

How could you bear to miss this? In Lostwithiel on 27th November there are over 45 stands with hundreds of teddies, new and old, designer and antique, at the Cornwall Christmas Bear Fair. There are free valuations and restoration advice, a teddy bear hospital, bear-making patterns, kits, materials, accessories and demonstrations. Cuddle your favourite teddy at R75.

And there’s plenty more seasonal shopping events to choose, such as Pencarrow Christmas Fair from 19th – 20th November, Padstow Christmas Festival from 2nd-4th December, or Fowey Christmas Market from 3rd – 4th December.

We hope you find time to grab some peace and quiet on a short break before the busy festive period. Check out the special offers on our website and don’t hesitate to call our team on 01647 433593 to chat through the finer details of any holiday home that tickles your fancy.