Do your Christmas gift choices lack inspiration? Handing out the same old socks and smellies to the same people year after year. But your budget doesn’t stretch nearly as far as your imagination might.

We face the same problems every year - looking for something that is thoughtful, that will be genuinely appreciated but something that won’t pull the purse strings to breaking point.

Perhaps the answer is surprisingly close to hand. Craft Fairs abound at this time of year and offer the ideal opportunity to pick up something original yet affordable. You could even get involved and create your own home made gifts, it’s all here in Haverhill and surrounding areas for you.

Christmas Craft & Gift Fair at The Apex

On Saturday 12th December 2015, local exhibitors will have their wares on display at The Apex. Here you can get into the Christmas spirit whilst you browse a selection of stalls offering a wide range of handmade crafts.

The fair runs from 10.00am to 4.30pm on both days, entry is free and refreshments are available. Click here for further information.

Christmas Craft Fair at Stonham Barns

Stonham Barns Leisure and Retail Village will be hosting their Christmas Fairs on the 28th and 29th November. More gift inspiration in the form of handmade jewellery, wreaths, art and more.

And whilst you’re there the Suffolk Owl Sanctuary will be running funfair rides for the children plus live reindeer and an opportunity to visit Santa’s Grotto. More information can be found by clicking here.

Christmas at Haverhill Arts Centre

And don’t miss the imagine… Christmas Craft and Gift Fair at Haverhill Arts Centre on 4th December from 5pm to 8pm and Saturday the 5th from 9.30am to 3.30pm.

25 tables to tempt you… pop music and memorabilia, folk art, candles, cushions, jewellery, beauty products and so much more. There’s free entry, Christmas Carol’s to get you into the festive spirit and the Bistro open throughout for drinks, snacks and lunches.

Please click here to find out more.

Christmas at Ickworth House

But what if you fancy getting hand’s on with your crafting and gift ideas? Simple - head to Ickworth House.

You can stir up your own Christmas pudding and make delicious mince pies at an exclusive workshop in the historic basement kitchen, aided by Ickworth’s living history cooks.

Perhaps you’ve always fancied trying your hand at making a festive wreath for your front door, or as a gift. You can do just that at a wreath making workshop with Ickworth’s head gardener. After a full demonstration you can spend the day making your own wreath, taking time out to enjoy the delicious treats and lunch on offer.

There’s also a special crafting week for adults where in the cosy gallery you can create your own beautiful gifts and cards with all materials and help provided.

And Ickworth’s Family Christmas Sparkle is where the whole family can gather to listen to Father Christmas, telling stories and sharing gifts around the fire. With a Christmas trail, traditional games and more fun crafts for all ages the festive spirit is all around at Ickworth House.

For dates, times and more details of these fabulous Christmas treats happening at Ickworth House, click here.

With so much going on in the Haverhill area, and so much inspiration around, you really can make this year the one without the socks!