There is a certain joy to be found in a good market, particularly one stacked high with the sort of handmade treasures that you simply won’t find on the average high street. Whether you are the type to hunt down a one-off piece of jewellery, a hand-poured candle or a bit of vintage that nobody else will have, there is a real pleasure in browsing stalls run by the very people who made the goods themselves. That is exactly what is on offer when Guildford’s Craft & Flea Market sets up shop at Guildford Cathedral, bringing together a carefully chosen collection of independent makers under one roof.
Makers & Designers Come Together
Craft & Flea has built its reputation on gathering together some of the best independent makers, collectors, designers and creatives around, with this being a chance to see plenty of that talent in one place. The range of goods on offer is a wide one, taking in everything from ceramics and illustrations to candles, jewellery and carefully curated vintage collections, which means there really is something to suit just about every taste.
This isn’t your average craft fair, either, with every stall application screened in advance to make sure that only the finest artisan traders make the cut. The result is an event that celebrates creativity and craftsmanship, showcasing handmade, hand-designed and authentic vintage goods rather than the mass-produced tat that you might find elsewhere.
Supporting Local, Shopping Small
At its heart, the Craft & Flea Market is all about giving small businesses a platform and encouraging people to shop local in the process. It is a lovely way to spend a few hours, offering the chance to pick up something a little bit different whilst also putting your money directly into the pockets of the talented individuals who create these pieces.
There is a genuine warmth to markets of this kind, where you can chat to the makers, learn the story behind a particular product and come away with something that carries a bit more meaning than an off-the-shelf purchase ever could. If you have ever fancied yourself as a trader, it is worth noting that the organisers are always on the lookout for new applicants via their website at thecraftandflea.com.
What You Need to Know
Entry to the market costs a very reasonable £3, whilst under-12s can come along completely free of charge and without the need for a ticket. It is worth pointing out that booking a ticket in advance will secure you priority entry, with the time on your ticket simply serving as an arrival slot rather than any sort of cap on how long you can stay and browse.
The event runs for a full five hours from 11am until 4pm, giving you plenty of time to work your way around, and Guildford Cathedral up on Stag Hill is easy enough to reach whether you are coming by car, by bike, on foot or via public transport. Do bear in mind that tickets are non-refundable, so it is worth being sure of your plans before you book.