Christmas gift fairs in Surrey 2015

PUBLISHED: 05:10 04 November 2015 | UPDATED: 12:03 04 November 2015

Interviews: Jenny Cook

The spectacular Guildford Cathedral

Archant

Steal a march on the Christmas crowds by visiting one of these lovely festive fairs around our county

Originally published in Surrey Life magazine November 2015

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The Children’s Trust Christmas Fair

Tadworth Court, Tadworth KT20 5RU. Saturday November 28, 12noon to 4pm. Entry: Adults, £3; children, free

Person interviewed: Hannah Vince, community fund-raising co-ordinator

Describe your event to us…
Our annual fair provides lots of great entertainment and activities for all the family, as well as a fabulous Christmas market. Santa’s Grotto, a skating rink, the donkey rides and fairground rides are always a great hit.

What makes the fair unique?
Our fair takes place in the beautiful grounds and the historic mansion at Tadworth Court, home to The Children’s Trust. It is a gorgeous venue and very magical at Christmas-time.

Have there been any particular milestones in the organisation?
A major milestone is getting donations of prizes and goodies from local businesses – we very much rely on the kind donations from supporters.

Tell us a bit about the Children’s Trust and how it will benefit?
We provide expert rehabilitation to children with acquired brain injury, helping them make the best recovery possible after a serious accident or illness. The money raised at our Christmas fair will allow us to continue this great work.

TOP TIP: If you’re organising a fair yourself, be organised. Make sure you book everything in advance and don’t be afraid to ask for support to help you raise as much money as possible for your chosen charity.

• Tel: 01737 365000. Web: thechildrens trust.org.uk

Meet The Christmas Makers

St John’s Memorial Hall, Woking GU21 7SQ. Sunday November 29, 10.30am -4pm. Entry: Adults, 50p; children, free

Person interviewed: Judith Chambers-Randell, event organiser

What can we expect at the Christmas Makers fair?
Meet the Christmas Makers was started here in Woking because of our passion for crafts, which led to us creating an event for local people, featuring local creative makers, in the newly-built St John’s Memorial Hall. Its aim is to inspire everyone to enjoy the loveliness of craft.

How long has the preparation taken for the event?
It’s a bit of a labour of love – crafting is not about speed or financial gain but it is about skill and dedication. For crafters, Christmas starts in the summer or earlier!

What makes this event unique?
It isn’t often you get to meet the person who actually made the thing that you are buying – it’s personal and friendly. You can relax, enjoy and browse away from the high street and enjoy the St John’s Community Choir lunchtime performance of seasonal tunes.

Can customers join in with the makers?
We will have several demonstrations running on stalls throughout the day. You’ll have the chance to chat with local craft teachers who offer a wealth of courses to help everyone realise their potential.

TOP TIP: Why not create a home-made gift yourself this Christmas? Something handmade, or a unique, vintage item, really says you care. You don’t have to spend the earth but you will have something special.

• Tel: 077867 98204. Web: meetthe christmasmakers2015.weebly.com

Guildford Cathedral Winter Market & Fair

Guildford Cathedral, Stag Hill, Guildford GU2 7UP. Friday November 20 and Saturday November 21, 10am-4pm. Entry: Adults, £2; under-16s, free

Person interviewed: Caroline Simcox, enterprise director

Tell us a bit about the Guildford Cathedral fair?
Our winter fair is in its fifth year and now on the map as one of the must-attend Christmas Fairs in Surrey.

Is there anything different about the fair this year?
This year, the fair will be held in our new semi-permanent heated marquee on the Cathedral Front Lawn, giving visitors more space to shop!

What can we look forward to?
Visitors can expect to find a wide range of gifts on offer from over 50 stalls, selling a variety of goodies such as chocolates, decorations, clothes, jewellery and much more.

Is there anything particular shoppers should look out for?
The Piece of Heaven bakery will be there selling cakes and champagne. Visitors will be able to pause for a moment and enjoy a glass of bubbly as well as purchase bottles on the day.

TOP TIP: For long Christmas shopping days, refuelling is key. Our on-site restaurant, The Refectory, offers a refuge where tired shoppers can enjoy coffee and cake or lunch.

• Tel: 01483 547881. Web: guildford-cathedral.org/

The Lightbox Christmas Fair

Chobham Road, Woking GU21 4AA. Saturday November 21 and Sunday November 22, 10.30am-5pm. Entry: Free

Person interviewed: Pru Chambers, marketing manager

What can we look forward to at The Lightbox Christmas Fair?
We host a diverse range of stalls that sell unique and original pieces perfect for presents. Take a break from shopping to relax with a glass of mulled wine and a mince pie whilst listening to seasonal live music.

Is there anything new this year?
This year, the fair will be open for two days rather than just one as in previous years. Maximise the extended time: start buying those Christmas presents early!

What goes into the planning process each year?
As soon as one fair finishes, we start planning for the next one! Preparation goes up a gear as we search for new and interesting local artists. It is exciting as it all comes together, particularly on the day before when the Christmas tree goes up!

Who will be presenting at this year’s event?
A diverse range of local artists will be presenting at this year’s fair, from hand-crafted pewter by Janet Baker and beautiful illustrations by Elena and Lisa Gomez, to the lovely textile creations of Gill Denyer. There will be something for everyone.

TOP TIP: When you’re looking to buy a personal or special gift, go with your first instinct – because you know the person well you will be naturally drawn to the right gift.

• Tel: 01483 737800. Web: thelightbox.org.uk