"Come to a fair where time stands still, where you can see craft being created right before your eyes", quotes the
Heritage Craft Fair website. The St. Ives Heritage Craft Fair is held on the first Sunday of every month from 10am to 3pm at the St. Ives Showground on the Mona Vale Road in St. Ives, the next fair being on 4th July, 2010.
The St. Ives Markets, as they are also known, have something to tickle everyone's fancy, whether you're a foodie, like to buy your veggies fresh from a market, need that special gift for someone in your life or perhaps you just want to sit down with a coffee and listen to the live music. Whatever the reason, you won't be disappointed.
The Markets have over 250 stalls selling an absolutely huge choice of wares, ranging from garden sculptures and plants to scarves, hats and clothing. There are candles, wooden toys and dolls, ceramics and the weirdest looking mobiles made from recycled silver (see my photo). Beautiful hand crafted jewellery, photo frames, lazy susans, cushions, throws, rugs and even kids furniture will keep you browsing for hours.
Shopping can work up an appetite, as we all know, but never fear, lunch is sorted with a variety of food stalls offering African, Argentinean, Greek, and Thai cuisine. There are divine Dutch poffertjes (little pancake balls) and the gozleme (filled Turkish pancakes) are just delicious. There are also hamburgers and the reliable sausage sizzle too, plus gelato to keep the big and little kids happy! I can honestly say that I would go there just solely for the food! It's just so good!
On the subject of little kids, there are pony rides, a ride on the trackless train and they can even test their creative abilities by painting plaster pieces. This should keep the youngsters busy while you enjoy a coffee or hot chocolate and listen to the music (a different band play every month). The St. Ives Radio Control Car Club are meeting at the showgrounds the same day. Their meets occasionally coincide with the Fair, so it may be a welcome break from shopping for some!
There are toilets on site, including a disabled toilet (located at the separate parking area at the entrance to the fair). Baby changing facilities are in the disabled toilet.
There is no ATM on site, so do bring plenty of cash or you might be devastated if you can't buy that tempting fudge or fairy floss!
For transport info
click here.
