Haddon Hall prepares for return of artisan market promising Covid-safe curated craft shopping

The Mercatum market will see more than 50 traders set up shop in the grounds over the weekend of May 21-23.

Lady Edward Manners who owns the estate, said: “After what has been a very strange year for us all, we’re delighted to be able to host our first artisan market of 2021.

“Not only do the markets provide us with a wonderful opportunity to support some truly fantastic artisans, it also gives people a chance to plan a day out in the fresh air, enjoy some shopping and time with friends, all in a socially distanced, Covid-safe manner.”

The event, which is held during each season of the year, is partly intended as a tribute to the role that craftsmanship had at Haddon over many centuries.

In recent years the Mercatum markets have become a firm favourite on the traders’ calendar, with some of the finest artisans and makers in the country pitching up to showcase their creations.

Stalls typically include a curated selection of jewellery, food and drink, art, ceramics with artisans selectively invited for talent, diversity of product and skill.

Open each day from 9.30am to 5pm, traders will be set out in socially-distanced gazebos amid the wild grasses to ensure compliance with all the latest health and safety guidelines.

Derby singer-songwriter Kevin Bradley will be performing on the Friday and Sunday, and shoppers will be able to sit back and soak up the atmosphere, relax by the river and eat takeaway food from an exceptional selection of street food chefs

Tickets cost £6 for anyone aged 16 or over, with free entry for anyone younger.

Visitors can choose from two sessions, with a morning ticket for entry from 9.30am to 1pm, or an afternoon session from 1.30-5pm.

Tickets for the car park are £3.50. All entrance tickets and car parking must be pre-booked online at https://bit.ly/2QXX1wC.

Haddon is currently closed to regular visitors but Lord and Lady Manners hope to reopen in July.

The market is expected to return for summer and autumn editions, July 16-18 and September 24-26, and a double-header in the winter, November 18-21 and 25-28.

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