An Easter craft fair held at Bishton Hall in Staffordshire attracted record numbers of visitors to the Georgian mansion – and another major event is on the way this weekend. (April 22-24)
The fair held in the grounds of the Wolseley Bridge country home, which dates back to circa 1750, drew more than 3,000 people over the bank holiday weekend. (April 17-18)
Now it’s hoped a Sustainability and Vegan Festival, running from April 22-24, will be equally successful as a summer without Covid restrictions brings back normality.
The owner of the hall hopes the Easter success marks a major turning point after pandemic lockdowns temporarily halted his goal to turn the historical property and its gardens into a hub for community events.
Auction house owner and TV personality Charles Hanson purchased Bishton Hall in 2019. It launched as Hansons Auctioneers’ Staffordshire saleroom in August that year with plans to develop Bishton as a public venue at the heart of community life. However, when the pandemic hit in March 2020, many plans had to be put on hold.
Charles said: “We have spent two years waiting to do far more at Bishton and this Easter really brought our hopes and plans alive again. It was wonderful to see so many people flocking to the hall to enjoy a sunny bank holiday weekend, just as we always used to be able to do.”
“We have been working hard to develop ideas and events to make greater use of the property and its grounds. I want people to be able to enjoy Bishton’s beauty and grandeur, appreciate its history and utilise its facilities for leisure and pleasure.
“Though the venue has hosted some events, including cinema nights and craft workshops, we have had a faltering start due to the Covid pandemic and lockdowns. Hopefully now we can really forge on with our plans.”
The Sustainability and Vegan Festival will be held at Bishton Hall, Wolseley Bridge, Staffs, ST17 0XN, from April 22-24, 10am-4pm. Attractions will include sustainable artisan crafters, yoga and holistic well-being tipi, vegan street food, cakes and ice-cream and an artisan courtyard of retailers. As part of the event, Charles Hanson will give a free talk on sustainable antiques on April 23, 11am. Entrance free, parking £2. To find out more visit: www.bishtonhall.com
