Hampton Court Palace
It’s a Saturday when I visit and I have an awful cold. Chesty cough and snivelling nose, the whole works. ‘What am I doing? Why am I here and not in bed?!’ Pretty much my thoughts as the train pulled into Hampton Court. It was the weekend that London had finally been hit with the harsh winter cold, after a stream of surprisingly warm autumnal days. But here I was, determined to see the Festive Fayre at Hampton Court Palace. It was my first time visiting and I wanted to take advantage of the market fairs taking place in the capital.
Food and Drink
Upon arriving, the ice rink was already full of enthusiastic skaters. The old familiar Christmas hits were blasting through the speakers, as the congregation made its way to the open market. I decided to start at the back of the palace and the aroma of food was so enticing. It ranged from the classic burger and chips plate to world foods. At every corner there were pop-up bars, offering cocktails with a classic Christmas twist. Old favourites like mulled wine and cider were also available. I will admit, as a non-drinker, there were limited options for me and even the kids! I would have expected more hot chocolate and coffee stands for a family environment. In any case, I did find a cafe stand and opted for a tea. I knew that the piping hot beverage would do better to warm my hands!
Artisan Stalls
Honestly, I didn’t actually eat at the fayre, although I did munch down a cookie with my tea and that was quite delicious. No, instead I chose to empty my bank balance on the artisan and small businesses, which I far prefer. The first place I hit was the deli! I am obsessed with buying cheese and butter that I usually have to get delivered from various farm shops online. Is there anything better than a good quality cheeseboard, especially at Christmas? The variation was vast at the deli and the fellows were very knowledgeable on their brands. This is what I love about independent businesses - they educate you because this is what they love to do. I admire the people who want you to be as informed as possible about their products.
Some of my favourite pottery brands were present and I bought some gorgeous pheasant mugs (from Hogben Pottery). I also bought beautiful handmade Christmas cards from a company I had not come across before. I will definitely be purchasing from them again. All in all, I was introduced to a lot of wonderful independent businesses and I am grateful.
Christmas cards: https://www.laurafisher.co.uk
Mugs from Hogben Pottery: https://www.janehogbenterracotta.co.uk/
Your sense of smell will be enticed with the food stalls and your ears will be entranced by the live entertainment. There was a lovely duo singing classics with a vintage twist (‘40s/’50s style). I adored the volunteer choir group who sang carols under the tree. There was also a brass band, but sadly I missed that. Did I mention the horse-drawn carriage rides?! Yes, you can also hop on for a trot around the palace with the most beautiful mares. The admission to the fayre also included a visit inside the palace. You’re more than welcome to explore the gardens and Henry VIII’s former home.
When I couldn’t take the cold any longer (my hands were red raw despite wearing gloves) and I knew I was only going to make my cold worse, I hurried back to the station. I was home, all cosied up with a cuppa before you could say, Anne Boleyn.
Festive Fayre info here: https://www.hrpfestivals.com/festive-fayre
