It’s all getting a bit festive and most of us are certainly ready to start jingling our bells, so here’s how you can have a cracker of a start to get you in the spirit with a run down of local Christmas Fairs and Santa’s Grottos…

Henley Christmas Fair 25 – 28 November is set on the front lawns of the very picturesque Stonor Park Manor House, beautifully styled wooden chalets and heated indoor marquees await filled with a diverse range of festive eats, treats and gifts creating a truly unique shopping experience.

Whether you’re looking for hand crafted Christmas decorations, bespoke gifts, clothing, ceramics, soft furnishings, glassware, art or home accessories with over 100 festive stands, you’re sure to find the perfect gift… or even a treat for yourself!

Free parking – Kids go Free, tickets from £12.00

Henley Town Centre will be a-buzz with festive fun from 5pm – 9pm on Friday 26 November. There will be stalls, attractions and fairground rides in the Market Place, Bell Street, Duke Street and Hart Street. At 7pm, the winner of the Mayor’s Christmas Card Competition will switch on our Christmas tree lights, along with Mayor Sarah Miller and a representative from Invesco, who generously sponsor our Christmas tree. The ‘big switch-on’ will be followed by carol singing accompanied by the Woodley Concert Band.

Santa Claus is coming back to town on Friday 26 November 4-8pm.

After magical nights at the Regal, Kenton & Spice Merchant, Tom Ryan’s and Paula Price-Davies’ fifth year of festive fun Santa’s Grotto is in the stunning setting of the courtyard at Hotel du Vin on New Street. For anyone wishing to make a donation their charity partner The Chiltern Centre will be on hand for collection.

Free entry and gift for every child.

Father Christmas will be paying a visit to Watercolour Arts & Play Cafe on Friday 26 November 5-8pm.

There will be takeaway goodies, hot drinks and a picture next to Santa. Tickets available on the door £5 per child (all ages), this includes play time and some colouring

Organised by Hambleden Village Stores on Saturday 4th December it’s The Hambleden Charity Christmas Bazaar with 25 stalls plus roasted chestnuts, mulled wine, music, a grand prize raffle and Father Christmas. It will set across the village so should be a cracking day!

Free entry, however donations to their nominated charity The DASH Charity for local abused women and children would be much appreciated.

This lovely Christmas Artisan Fair returns to Henley Town Hall on Friday 10th December with over 25 local artisans.

Doors open at 5pm and there are free mince pies and mulled wine plus a raffle and collection for The Sue Ryder Charity.

Make sure you drop in to pick up some fabulous, unique pressies (or something for yourself) from some really cool Henley businesses.

Join Santa at The Baskerville in Shiplake on 14 December 3.30-6.00pm.

As well as their magical fireside Santa’s Grotto with very generous gifts, they will have delicious street food, sweet treats and artisan stalls. Book your half hour slot with Santa by emailing enquiries@thebaskerville.com 

£5 entry and all proceeds to charities Brave Mind and London Irish Foundation