Orleans House Gallery hosts free Christmas market on 5–6 December

If the shops are already looking a little samey, there is a good alternative lined up nearby: Orleans House Gallery in Twickenham is hosting its annual Christmas shopping weekend on Saturday 5 and Sunday 6 December, and entry is free.

More than 40 independent artists, makers, artisans and designers will be taking part, offering handcrafted gifts across a broad range of categories — jewellery, ceramics, textiles and homeware among them. The event is designed for shoppers who want to find something genuinely individual, and visitors can speak directly with the people who made the pieces.

Live performances and festive refreshments are also promised across the two days, making it a reasonable outing in its own right rather than purely a shopping trip.

Orleans House Gallery sits on the Thames at Riverside, Twickenham, a short journey from Barnes by bus or bike along the river. Parking is limited, so public transport or cycling is worth considering if you are planning to make the trip.

Full details, including opening times for the event days, are available on the Orleans House Gallery website via the Richmond Council events page.