Prepare for sparkle at the region's biggest Christmas department! This family-run garden centre, close to Oakham, has expanded its already extensive Christmas department to include The Barn - a beautiful new building full of Christmas and outdoor living inspiration. Expect amazing displays, gift ideas and exciting new themes in abundance, inside this beautiful centre that the Gates family have developed on the Rutland / Leicestershire border.

You'll also find a wonderful choice of homeware, a gorgeous collection of garden plants and a truly tempting array of tasty treats in both the tearoom and the farm shop. Fine produce at the farm shop is locally sourced, including Beef and Lamb from their own farm in the village and freshly baked bread from the nearby and award-winning Hambleton Bakery. Visit Gates website to find out more and read Jane's great review.

Your day includes a stop in Melton Mowbray - renowned for its pork pies and Stilton cheese! Look out, too, for notable historic buildings including the impressive 12th-century Church of St. Mary, with its 100ft spire rising over the rooftops, and the Anne of Cleves House. 

The coach is due to arrive at Melton Mowbray at 11:45 and will depart at 14:00 for Gates. The coach is due to arrive at Gates at 14:30 and will head home at 16:30.

You might also like Haddon Hall's Mercatum Artisan Market on Thur 14 Nov or York Christmas Festival on Tue 26 Nov.