Exeter Craft Festival returns

Exeter's beautiful and historic Cathedral Green is the setting for the Exeter Craft Festival on 6–8 July 2017.

Stands set in individual marquees showcase the wonderful original work of over 100 talented craftsmen and artists who are based in the South West.

This three-day event is in its 42nd year, attracts thousands of visitors and, as usual, exhibitors have been screened and selected for the quality of their work.

There is a wide variety to be enjoyed.

Visitors can browse wood and metal-work, ceramics from delightful tea light seaside cottages to vibrant tableware, glass from lampworked glass beads to fused creations, panels for your garden, and stained glass set into driftwood, precious metal and fashion jewellery, including items made by upcycling antique cutlery, leather, furniture made from highly individual flame-scorched wood enhanced with gorgeous fabrics, papercraft, including the mysteriously named exploding boxes and cameras made from paper and card, plants, textiles, some featuring the wool from the exhibitor’s own sheep, millinery, toys, aromatics, artistic works and photography, and more, such as mosaics on Cornish slate and bonsai trees sculpted from wire.

There is something to appeal to everyone, and entry is free.

There are demonstrations of various crafts so that you can see the processes that go into producing the work on display, or you can simply relax in the village-green atmosphere, and enjoy the entirely free family-friendly entertainment provided throughout the three days. To cater for the inner man, woman and child, refreshments are available from a variety of on-site vendors.

One of last year’s visitors commented, ‘Awesome family day out. Friendly and smiley atmosphere. Loved the variety of the stalls. First time I've been and can't wait for the next one!’ Another said, ‘That was a fab day out in Exeter to visit the Exeter Craft Festival. I could have spent an absolute fortune.’ Exhibitors were equally happy, with one saying, ‘Exeter Craft Festival, one of the best events in the calendar year, genuine craft from the West Country, stalls run by the artisan makers, so much talent.’

So, to find that special something made with love and skill either for yourself or as an unusual gift for someone else, visit the Exeter Craft Festival and take your family and friends to feast their senses.