Get crafty this Christmas on the Isle of Wight

Tuesday, 23 November 2010 4:37 PM

They say it’s the thought that counts when it comes to Christmas presents, and what could be more thoughtful than a handmade present? Head south this festive period and discover the range of arts and crafts events taking place on the Isle of Wight.

Give your front-door a personal touch with a homemade wreath by visiting the Christmas Food and Gift Fair at Ventnor Botanic Garden.

The Friends of Ventnor Botanic Garden will be holding traditional wreath making workshops twice a day on December 11 and 12 for £12 per person, or just stroll through the gardens and pick up some great gifts like homemade shortbread, mince pies, and chutneys.

Inspire the whole family to get creative at the Christmas Nature Crafts Drop-in family workshop on Saturday 11 at Quay Arts, Newport Harbour. Weave Scandinavian inspired Christmas garlands, solstice stars and yuletide reindeer using a range of natural materials.

Alternatively, head to Quay Arts on November 27 for their glass blowing workshop, where you can learn to make your own kiln-fired Christmas tree decorations.

For more information on these craft fairs and workshops, visit: www.quayarts.org, www.botanic.co.uk or www.islandbreaks.co.uk
 

Enjoy great culture in the Isle of Wight

Enjoy a cultural break in the Isle of Wight

The Isle of Wight is a fantastic destination for all kinds of holidaymakers, from families to activity lovers, while its position as one of the warmest parts of the UK makes it a good place for sun-lovers. It is perhaps, however, particularly suited to culture vultures.

Give an extra-special gift this year

Give a gift experience this Christmas

Put an extra special treat in someone's stocking this year, with a gift experience from Warner Leisure Hotels. Perfect for those who prefer to do something rather than get something for Christmas, there is a wide range of different gifts available.

Explore the Isle of Wight on a yacht

Enjoy a yacht charter in the Isle of Wight on a weekend break

Booking a yacht charter in the United Kingdom may not be the first thing that springs to mind when you think of a weekend break, but getting out on the water is a great way to relax, unwind and forget the stresses and strains of everyday life.

Make your own Christmas presents at Chessel Pottery Barns

Pre-Christmas breaks on the Isle of Wight

This November, the Isle of Wight is hosting three special events to kick-start the festive season, including country house open days and festive cooking and pottery demonstrations.

Active festive breaks on the Isle of Wight

Active family breaks to beat the Christmas bulge

There is still time to plan an active escape for the holidays - and walk off that Christmas turkey. For those looking for an opportunity to get away from loud presents and sit-down dinners, the Isle of Wight has some festive active breaks in store.

Ventor, Isle of Wight

Escape to the Isle of Wight this Easter

The Isle of Wright is inviting you to visit this April as a combination of the Royal Wedding, May Bank Holiday and Easter falling within an 11-day period sees many families looking to take advantage with a short break.

Learn how to cook on the Isle of Wight

Learn to cook on the Isle of Wight

Whether you're something of a novice or already an accomplished cook a residential cookery weekend on the Isle of Wight, with Michele Newton, could be right up your street. The weekend course is running on dates across January, February and March.

Lyon's night lights

Celebrate Christmas at Lyon's Festival of Lights

Londoners have been enjoying the Oxford Street Christmas lights for the past 53 years, but that’s nothing compared to residents of Lyon in the East of France where the city’s illuminations date back to the mid-1600s.

Coffee with a local in Amsterdam

Amsterdam

This week IdealShortBreaks.co.uk is in Amsterdam drinking strong black coffee with local Machteld Ligtvoet, who gives us tips on some of his favourite local haunts – including where you can go to find one of the best views of the city.

Editor's Blog: Learning to play polo

Esme Fox learning how to play polo

To mark the launch of this summer’s MINT Polo in the Park, Esme Fox decided to try her hand at the sport and see what it’s all about.