Holker Winter Market

A big three-day artisan and street-food market in the grounds of Holker Hall in south Cumbria that opens the North's festive market season.

Holker Hall, the stately home near Cartmel in south Cumbria, hosts a three-day Winter Market at the very start of the festive season. Holker calls it the biggest seasonal market in the North West outside Manchester. Makers from across the region sell ceramics, woodwork, jewellery, textiles, candles and artwork, alongside bakers, chocolatiers, cheesemakers and small-batch brewers, distillers and cider makers.

There is a large street food area, outdoor bars and live music across the weekend, from folk and blues to classical. A market ticket also gets you into Holker Hall, where access is by guided tour during the market, and the formal gardens. Under-12s go free.

This is an outdoor event with little cover, and parking is in fields 5 to 10 minutes' walk away on uneven ground, so dress for the weather and wear sturdy shoes. Expect queues on the approach roads. Dogs on leads are welcome in the market and gardens but not inside the Hall. Holker says Friday is usually the quietest day.