The wonderful Winter Art Fair Open Studios event returns to The Hearth in Horsley this November, and it’s THE place to head if you’re looking for the kind of special gift that you’re just not going to find on the high street.

These weekends at The Hearth are really special because – as with all their fairs – they take great pleasure in curating an original line-up of high quality, professional artists and makers for your delectation. And there’s always a real buzz about the place too, with visitors rubbing shoulders with all manner of creators. This year 22 passionate artists will be showing their wares taking in a whole range of disciplines including textiles, jewellery and clocks, watercolours, ceramics, prints, paintings, exquisite papercuts, willow pieces, artisan soaps, wood work, illustration, sculpture and glass. If you’ve not visited one of The Hearth’s fairs, then I can’t recommend them enough – the vibe is relaxed and as friendly as they come. Oh – a word too for their café, which is surely one of the best in the region. Here you can get homemade cakes and scones, light lunches, an all-day breakfast, along with vegetarian and vegan and gluten free stuff (it’s always worth booking in advance to ensure you get a table as it really is that popular). Check out all the artists showing stuff this year by visiting the website, below. GM

The Hearth Winter Art Fair Open Studios, Saturday 22 & Sunday 23 November, The Hearth Ars Centre & Café, Horsley, Newcastle, NE15 ONT, 10am-4pm, free, thehearth.co.uk