There are so many good reasons to visit The Christmas Cotswold Fair next month, but here are five from founder and organiser Lucy Greaves to get you started

November is just around the corner, and with it the earliest highlight in the Christmas season – The Christmas Cotswold Fair, now in its 37th year.

But what can you expect in 2022? The pandemic is a distant (though vivid) memory, and this year embracing the importance of gatherings is in our minds and hearts. So, with this in mind, fair organiser and founder Lucy Greaves, has highlighted the best elements of the 2022 Fair, fit to bursting with all your Christmas shopping needs.

Great British Life: Setting the scene with a magical tentSetting the scene with a magical tent (Image: LPM Bohemia)

1. First things first – the tents!

‘We may be biased, but they are just FAB, and we cannot thank LPM Bohemia enough for their support over the years. Following entrance through our Greeting tent, you’ll find our stallholders spread across three tents, all laid out in an easy-to-follow format, with our catering found at the opposite end to the greeting tent. So much to explore!’

Great British Life: Luxurious lighting solutions by PookyLuxurious lighting solutions by Pooky (Image: pooky.com)

2. Want a VIP experience?

‘This year, Cotswold Grey will be once again kindly sponsoring our VIP area; the perfect place to sit with a drink and mull over your thrilling purchases. What’s more, for the full experience, why not join us with a VIP pass for our preview Monday evening, with a cool glass of Woodchester Valley Vineyard English fizz, all accompanied by the luscious tones of Henry Crudge on the decks. VIP-tastic!’

3. Looking for a new skill?

‘Why not join us for one of our exclusive tutorials with fabulous chefs, interior designers, design specialists and many more. The Christmas Cotswold Fair isn’t just a place for shopping – it is a place to make memories that last a lifetime!’

Great British Life: Alpine Jumper in Paradise Green by Stoned & WaistedAlpine Jumper in Paradise Green by Stoned & Waisted (Image: Lucy J Toms Photography)

4. Who’s new in ’22?

‘Each year we ensure we’re bringing the best the world has to offer for your yuletide shopping, and 2022 – if we do say so ourselves – is better than ever before. Be sure not to miss some of our new friends:

Stoned & Waisted (kindly sponsoring) – everyday luxury meets the creation of treasured items to last a lifetime. Can’t really ask for more, can we!

Chien Lunatique – why shouldn’t we cherish and treat our pooch pals at Christmas? Stop in for a bespoke range of luxury and discerning canine gifts with a twist.

Great British Life: Finding the perfect mug with the help of Killy & CoFinding the perfect mug with the help of Killy & Co (Image: killyandco.com)

Killy & Co – home is where the heart is, and what is a home without the perfect mug. Cue Killy Williams’s vibrant animal-themed collection, with marvellous names like Ernie Dinky and Big Mike.

Plum & Ashby – and now for something completely luxurious. Scents, home and body collections honed from the British landscape, using the finest ingredients. Yes, please!’

Great British Life: Scents, home and body collections by Plum & AshbyScents, home and body collections by Plum & Ashby (Image: Plum & Ashby)

Great British Life: Large lint brush from the Oxford Brush CompanyLarge lint brush from the Oxford Brush Company (Image: Oxford Brush Company)

SUBSCRIBE to Cotswold Life magazine for more ideas of where to go and what to do.

5. The importance of support

‘It goes without saying that we couldn’t raise any money at all for the wonderful WellChild without our incredible sponsors, so make sure you pop in and say hello to each and every one of them as you make your way round the fair:

Need a brush for each and every task in your house? Oxford Brush Company have you covered.

Looking for a luxurious lighting solution? You could not do better than Pooky.

Always wanted a Cotswold pad? Knight Frank are there to help.

And how on earth would you make your house a home without the best bespoke kitchen in the country? Head over to see Hunt Bespoke Kitchens for the dream solution.

And whilst we’re in a kitchen mood, a little taste of Switzerland really can make your Christmas one to remember, so pop over for some delectable treats from Le Gruyere.’

The Christmas Cotswold Fair runs from November 7-10 at Daylesford Organic Farmshop, GL56 0YG. General early bird tickets at £15 are available until September 30; general sale at £16 available from October 1. cotswoldfair.com