Essex County Christmas Fair 2026: Three-Day Festive Showcase Relocates to Boreham House
Essex’s premier seasonal shopping extravaganza is embarking on an exciting new chapter. The Essex County Christmas Fair 2026 has officially confirmed its relocation to the prestigious grounds of Boreham House, offering visitors an even more enchanting backdrop for one of the region's most anticipated festive traditions.
Running across three full days in late November, the celebrated event brings together hundreds of independent British craftsmen, boutique retailers, and artisan food producers. With the stately Georgian mansion and its sweeping avenue of trees providing a fairy-tale winter setting, the 2026 edition promises to be the grandest fair to date.
A Magnificent Stately Home Setting
Previously hosted at various agricultural and event centres across the county, the move to Boreham House marks a significant upgrade in atmosphere and visitor experience. Set within 35 acres of picturesque parkland just outside Chelmsford, the Grade I listed mansion will be illuminated with thousands of twinkling fairy lights.
Heated luxury marquees will link seamlessly with the estate's landscaped gardens, allowing guests to browse in absolute comfort whatever the British winter weather brings. The majestic lake will feature illuminated displays, while crackling fire pits will offer warm gathering spots to pause between shopping sprees.
Highlights of the 2026 Showcase
The Essex County Christmas Fair has earned a reputation for championing small businesses, local talent, and high-quality craftsmanship. Whether you are hunting for bespoke gifts or stocking up on festive pantry essentials, the three-day market delivers an unparalleled selection.
- Artisan Gift Pavilions: Explore over 150 curated stalls offering handmade jewellery, ceramics, bespoke knitwear, natural skincare, festive wreaths, and luxury home décor.
- The Gourmet Food & Drink Hall: Sample and purchase regional specialities including Essex honey, small-batch gin, cured meats, artisan cheeses, hand-poured chocolates, and traditional Christmas puddings.
- Festive Street Food Court: Indulge in gourmet bratwursts, wood-fired pizzas, warm Dutch pancakes, and spiced mulled wine or craft cider.
- Live Acoustic & Choral Performances: Local brass bands, roaming carollers, and acoustic musicians will provide a continuous festive soundtrack across all three days.
- Family Entertainment: Look out for appearances from Father Christmas and his elves, alongside stilt walkers and family-friendly craft workshops.
Supporting Independent Makers
At the heart of the fair is a commitment to celebrating regional enterprise. By relocating to Boreham House, organisers have expanded the floor plan to feature a dedicated 'Essex Creators' village, spotlighting emerging artisans and craftspeople based across the county—from Colchester potters to Leigh-on-Sea candle makers.
This makes the event the perfect destination for thoughtful, sustainable Christmas shopping that directly supports small-scale UK entrepreneurs.
Essential Visitor Information
- Location: Boreham House, Main Road, Boreham, Chelmsford, Essex, CM3 3HY
- Dates: Friday 20 November to Sunday 22 November 2026
- Opening Hours: Friday & Saturday: 9:30 am – 5:30 pm | Sunday: 10:00 am – 4:30 pm
- Parking: Extensive on-site parking is available on dedicated hardstanding and reinforced surfaces, with marshals on hand to assist.
- Public Transport: Regular shuttle buses are scheduled to operate between Chelmsford Railway Station and Boreham House throughout the weekend, providing straightforward connections for visitors travelling from London Liverpool Street, Brentwood, and Colchester.
- Tickets: Due to capacity management and anticipated high demand at the new venue, all admission tickets must be booked in advance online, with staggered arrival slots designed to ensure a relaxed shopping atmosphere.
Whether you are kicking off your holiday preparations or simply soaking in the enchanting seasonal cheer, the Essex County Christmas Fair at Boreham House is poised to be an unmissable highlight of the 2026 winter calendar.