Haddon Mercatum

The start of December brings with it a certain sort of shopping frenzy fueled by Christmas's imminent arrival. I'm trying my best to avoid doing all on my present-buying on line which is ample reason to be off out to another Christmas market - this time at Haddon Hall.

This is the first time I've visited but I'd heard good things about it, and it definitely didn't disappoint. 

It's hard at first to appreciate how large the market is - there were stalls situated on the flat ground before the hall, some in the main courtyard, more throughout the hall's rooms and kitchens, and a marquee in the terraced garden.

I'm always drawn to the foodie section first, sampling this and that, picking up some treats to bring home (Infusions apple balsamic vinegar, and cakes for the evening), and getting some lunch (bean chilli from Eat Shoots and Leaves), before facing the climb up to the hall.

Through the main door and into the courtyard filled with mainly outdoorsy stalls - wreaths, plants, woodworking - 

then into the Great Hall dominated by a huge Christmas tree, and on into the smaller rooms beyond before heading into the garden and returning via the Long Chamber. I lost count of the number of vendors  - more cheese, chocolate and flavoured spirits, jewellery, soaps, knitted goods, candles; a list that goes on forever.

I particularly liked the setting. Not traipsing through mud from stall to stall, but going inside and experiencing the atmosphere of such an historic house. Although the rooms weren't fully decorated for Christmas there was a festive atmosphere throughout with lights in the windows, trees and garlands. 

Looking back as we left it's easy to imagine Haddon in its Tudor heyday. 

Back home though for some rather delicious cakes.