Almost 30 of the best designer makers and producers working in and around the North Pennines are looking forward to the 18th, 19th and 20th of this month and the annual Winter Craft Fair at Alston Town Hall. As always, the Alston Moor Crafts group is taking over the Town Hall for a weekend and it will be a great opportunity to buy local, handmade gifts with a difference in time for Christmas.
Sophie Howgego, who is based at Brewhouse Studios in Alston and trades as Sofluphie, is one of the core organisers of the event. “We’re all looking forward to welcoming visitors this year and hoping to build on last November’s successful Fair. All but one of last year’s stallholders are returning for 2022 and we’ve a few new names joining us too, including Sheila Mitton, who creates beautiful drawings of animals and takes commissions for pet portraits, and Stoke House Preserves with their award-winning jams and chutney."
There will be jewellery and prints, woollen goods and baskets, Christmas decorations and lots more, including Cumberland mustards and seasonal candles. Everything is set up so that shoppers can browse at their leisure, fill a basket at different stalls and then make just one payment.
“The way the Fair works creates a nice, relaxed way to shop,” says Sophie, “and there should be something for everyone, whatever their budget. We’ve live music throughout the three days, refreshments from Saddler’s Bakery Bistro in Alston and The Hive at Nenthead and plenty of lights and decorations to create a Christmassy atmosphere.”
Alston Winter Craft Fair is open over three days this November: 10am to 4pm on Friday 18th, 10am to 5pm on Saturday 19th and 11am to 4pm on Sunday 20th November. Entry is free and there is plenty of parking in and around Alston.
Further information about the event and about the Alston Moor Crafts group please click HERE
Header Image: Sofluphie: Mixed Media - and all things Fluffy!