Experience the sights and sounds of a bygone era as 60 traders, many in full period dress, offer up unique gifts, handcrafted items, and delicious food and drink in Melton’s historical centre. The town is well renowned for its pork pies and Stilton cheese - perfect for the Christmas table.

Continue to the region’s largest Christmas department at Gates with truly imaginative displays that ignite the Christmas sparkle! 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. Let your imagination run wild as you take a winter wander through the unbelievable display themes which have included A Forest Tale, The Snow Queen, A Christmas Carol, Sweet Fantasy and White Christmas. 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.

Includes free time to enjoy Melton Mowbray and Gates at Christmas, return travel and a reserved coach seat (of your choice). The coach is due to arrive at Melton Mowbray Bus Station at 11:45 and will depart at 14:00. Continue to Gates Garden Centre, arriving at 14:30 and departing at 16:30.

You might also like Ely Cathedral Christmas Gift & Food Fair on Thur 19 Nov.