Firstly a trip to the Peak District Artisans exhibition at Haddon Hall. It's a fascinating place to visit that feels as if it hasn't changed since Tudor times but this trip was mainly to see the art and crafts.
There were lots and lots of beautiful things on display - and teenage daughter was particularly taken with some designer handbags - but what struck me most was the number of people there.
Maybe free admission to Haddon Hall had attracted them, though most didn't seem to be concerned with their surroundings but were genuinely interested in the paintings, prints, jewellery, ceramics...
Such a difference to last weekend's visit to an art gallery only a few miles away, which was empty till we arrived. I know there's something intimidating about walking into any empty shop but galleries always manage to be even more off-putting. In a welcoming setting with plenty of other people milling round it feels so much more comfortable to look at paintings, jewellery, whatever without haven't to make stunted small talk to a gallery assistant or sneak back out if you don't like what's for sale.
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