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Thanks to shows like Kirstie Allsop’s Handmade In Britain there has been a renewed interest in traditional crafts.  The Barleylands Craft Village is one of the largest in the South East and Essex's best kept secret.  Rather than going to your local High Street or shopping centre on the weekend of the 3rd and 4th March, where all the outlets are the same, why not come to the Craft Village Open Weekend instead!  The demonstrations and taster sessions are from 10am to 5pm on both days and the car park is free.

Whether you want to try your hand at throwing a pot, find out how to quilt or want to make something extra special for Mother’s Day, you can do all this and more.  Just about every material will be represented during this exciting weekend, including metal, glass, wood, paper, clay and textiles when more than 20 crafters will show off their skills at this large thriving village set in the beautiful countryside setting of Barleylands.

So much more than simply shops, the studios, workshops and galleries at Barleylands are a hotbed of creative talent – many of the artisans sell their work all over the world.   During the weekend visitors will be able to meet the crafters, commission something unique or get details of classes and courses available within the village where they can make their own special piece.

Learn how to up-cycle wood furniture at Revival Furniture, see original artwork being created at Dean Smith Art, discover how candles are made at the One Stop Pamper Shop or try your hand at glass fusing at Glass From the Past. You can also browse the many exciting paintings at The New Art Gallery or pick up an interesting object d’art at All About Time. You can even watch an original blacksmith at work at the Kingswood Forge, glassblowing and wood turning.

Steve Penny from the Billericay Dance Studio, based in the village said, "The dance centre is looking forward to the open weekend when our students will (weather permitting) be having lessons on the green. Everybody is welcome to come and watch our classes in Ballet, Modern, Tap and Jazz."

Phil Burrows, Director, Barleylands added, “There is nothing like the Barleylands Craft Village for miles around.  It has a unique atmosphere because of the many talented and creative people here and the studios and galleries are filled with items that you won’t find anywhere else.  People have the chance to watch skilled craftspeople at work, have a go themselves, commission something special or book a class. The classes cater for all ages.” 

The selected taster sessions on offer start from just £4, while demonstrations and entry are free. It’s also free to park and you can enjoy a well earned refreshment at the on-site cafe.