Tuesday 16th & Wednesday 17th December, 11am – 4pm
Special Evening: Tuesday 16th, 6–8pm
This winter, East Dene opens its doors for a truly special event — the Christmas Craft Extravaganza, a unique celebration of creativity, craftsmanship and historic beauty.
More than a craft fair, this is a rare opportunity to meet the makers, explore one of the Isle of Wight’s most intriguing historic houses, and discover exceptional Christmas gifts you simply won’t find on the high street. Tickets include a traditional mince pie, a warming glass of mulled wine, and a complimentary raffle ticket, making your visit as festive as it is inspiring.
Step into something exceptional this season. Hosted in the extraordinary setting of East Dene, one of the country’s finest surviving marine villas and the former childhood home of Pre-Raphaelite poet Algernon Swinburne, this is the first event of its kind on the island.
Recently and painstakingly restored, East Dene offers visitors the rare chance to experience this remarkable house and enjoy breathtaking sea views. With beautiful wooden panelling said to have been salvaged from a Spanish Armada ship, the house is rich with atmosphere, history, mystery — and a reputation for a few gentle, well-loved resident ghosts, adding an extra frisson of excitement to your visit.
Inside, visitors will find a carefully curated selection of one-of-a-kind, island-made work, spanning jewellery, ceramics, fine art, textiles, wood, glass and leather. Each piece has been chosen for its beauty, individuality and craftsmanship, with work available to suit a wide range of budgets.
Featured Makers
Elegant jewellery by Nancye Church, sea-glass pieces by Clare Wright, and playful designs by Tatty Devine.
Sculptural turned wood by Andy Fortune.
Decorative and functional ceramics from Binnel Studio, including Molly Attrill and Jane Cox.
Limited edition rare books and prints collected by Professor Robin McInnes.
Original, exotic clothing from Freya of Ventnor.
Cosy seaside-inspired cushions and lampshades by Jane Crofts.
Environmentally responsible soaps, candles, tinctures, honey and body oils from Attis of Ventnor.
Live wool spinning and beautifully colourful hats and scarves by Woolworks, with opportunities for visitors to try spinning themselves.
Creative and stylish glassware by Glory Art Glass, established in 1996, employs traditional, increasingly rare glass-blowing techniques.
Sustainable, collectable leather goods by Sue Lowday, who will adjust her handcrafted belts to fit while you wait.
Beautifully painted natural mixed-media works by Stephanie Head.
Expressive watercolours, acrylics and drawings by Elizabeth Smith.
Intricate linocuts and woodcuts by Julia Gittins, including new work selected for the Society of Wood Engravers at Bankside Gallery, London.
Fresh, experimental island landscapes by Andy Noctor.
Outstanding island photography by Lynn Pearce.
Many of our exhibitors will take commissions to create that extra-special piece of work.
Beyond the makers’ tables, visitors can enjoy a Santa’s Grotto, festive food, wreath-making workshops, and beautiful handmade wreaths available to buy.
Tickets: £10 on the door / £8 in advance incl. booking fee.
Entry includes a mince pie, mulled wine, and a raffle ticket for fabulous exclusive prizes.
Every ticket includes one complimentary raffle entry, and visitors may purchase additional entries on the day.
The raffle features a wonderful selection of prizes, including 1. a luxurious two-night stay at East Dene in a beautiful four-poster bed (self-catering suite), t & c’s apply, 2. a premium festive hamper, and 3. a choice of creative craft workshop experiences – along with many more exciting prizes to be won.
Create Your Own Christmas Wreath
A hands-on festive workshop assisted by our friendly floristry team. Running Tuesday and Wednesday from 11am–2pm, this session includes all materials and seasonal refreshments. £35 per person, with only 8–10 spaces available.
This special winter event brings together some of the Isle of Wight’s finest designers, makers and artists in one magical setting. It is a rare chance to shop directly from these talented people, while experiencing one of the island’s most fascinating historic homes — perhaps with a whisper of friendly ghosts watching over the festivities.
Christmas Craft Extravaganza at East Dene
A beautiful house, extraordinary makers, and truly unforgettable gifts.
Booking is essential via the East Dene Eventbrite page.
Parking:
Shore Road Car Park, off Bonchurch Village Road, or on Leeson Road near the top of Bonchurch Shute.
Park and Walk information.(Click to see the Map Here)
Drop off outside the gates of East Dene, then park at one of the two recommended car parks.
Walking from the two car parks takes around 5-10 minutes, depending on your route.
Please use the Eventbrite page to book a Disabled Parking slot.
