Saturday 3rd December
10.30am-4pm
There will be Christmas concerts, gifts and cheer at Gilbert White’s House & Gardens on December 3rd!
‘Tis the season to gift sustainably, with White’s Eco Christmas Fair! We’re all thinking about ways to reduce our footprints, shop locally, reuse and recycle, so this Christmas why not choose the perfect eco-friendly present for a relative or friend (or just treat yourself!) We will have a range of stalls at our stunning 16th Century barn selling beautifully handcrafted sustainable items.
The historic house will also be decking the halls with boughs of holly, both in its festive Winter appearance and through song. Yuletide performances will be given by the Prize Old Mummers and Alton Community Choir in the atmospheric Great Parlour. Traditional mulled wine and mince pies will be available from the old kitchen, visitors can try a sip of Gilbert White’s gin and luxury hot chocolates will be poured out in the barn.
Visitors will also be able to find Gilbert White’s brewers for a tasting session. During this time of year, the brewery produces a wass-ale, which is based on a traditional Scottish strong ale recipe, and includes hints of Christmas pudding flavour.
The garden will also be presenting its Winter wonder and there will be a wassail led in traditional costume, where visitors can help to promote a good harvest for the coming year by singing to the orchard trees.
Entry is £3 per person, this includes fair admission and house and gardens. Under 5s go free
Stallholders include:
Natural handmade soaps with herbs and essential oils to support a healthy lifestyle. Free of synthetics, paraben, gluten and palm oil these soaps will lift your spirit and nourish the soul.
Beautifully fragrant, hand poured soy blend candles and wax melts which are fully recyclable, cruelty free and vegan.
Traditional, luxury, old fashioned handmade fudge. Made to a unique recipe, Fordingbridge Fudge uses milk and butter from a local Guernsey herd, which adds to the fudge’s creaminess. They have a range of flavours, Christmas specials and gift boxes, presented in biodegradable and compostable packaging.
Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust
For over 60 years Hampshire & Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust have protected the wildlife and wild places of Hampshire, the Island and our local seas. Find out how you can support their important work!
Handmade at Hazelwood aims for zero fabric waste, repurposing from other projects to create a range of home items to eco face wipes, and travel hack items including tea wallets and book sleeves.
Rough Around the Hedges specialises in willow weaving and environmental education. Highly skilled at making baskets and items from sustainable UK willow and hedgerow materials, the natural gems reflect the biodiversity of our countryside.
A natural skincare brand selling soaps, bath bombs, facial oil, naturally dyed face cloths and more. All their products are vegan and cruelty free using plant-based ingredients from nature. All of their packaging is recyclable and plastic free too!
Selborne Women’s Institute
The Selborne WI are a group of enthusiastic women in the local community who meet monthly and participate in lots of local and further afield events. They are offering homemade crafts and bric-a-brac with a focus on recycling and upcycling preloved items.
Timeless Stitches offer four different ranges including crochet lace flowers vintage beads and jewellery, an eco-friendly collection offering flannels, face pads, potholders, tea cosies, flower doilies and dishcloths and crafting tools from reclaimed and recycled wood. Their baby collection is made of handknitted designs whilst their winter collection is made of cosy snoods, shawls and more to provide warmth.
Blooming Cow & Kate Bellamy Floral Designer
Using locally grown and sourced foliage, Blooming Cow and Kate Bellamy will be offering beautiful wreaths and table decorations, perfect for bringing a bit of natural festive feeling to the home.
Pookles Farm
Based in the South Downs National Park, Pookles Farm produce botanical gifts including beauty products, pictures, home scents and craft kits using up-cycled items and organic flowers.
The Forest School Company
A small, independent, outdoor education company based in Selborne, who deliver nature-based workshops and learning programmes for children and adults. They also produce woodland crafts, including whittled sticks.