Masham, nestled on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales, is a charming little town that transforms into a festive haven during the holiday season. Known for its thriving artisan community, Masham offers a unique and delightful shopping experience perfect for finding Christmas gifts and seasonal treats. Home to a group of artisans and the renowned Masham Gallery, www.mashamgallery.co.uk there is plenty of choice for art lovers. Uredale Glass, www.uredale.co.uk, Nolan Stacey, www.nolonstacey.com known for his wonderful and captivating animal drawings, and the renowned artist Scott Massie, www.ianscottmassie.com all have their studios in the town and for more inspiration visit the Masham Gallery who stock Scott Massey's painting but also have an eclectic mix of ceramics, jewellery and other such treasure all made by local Yorkshire artists. They will be open this weekend on the 7th and 8th December and showing the work of Scott Massie, Charlotte Morrison and Josie Beszant at an Open Studios event. There will be lots of original paintings and prints available at up to 50% off the usual price.

If all this inspires you to try your hand at a new skill or a gift for someone has artistic inclinations, then why not ask for a gift voucher for a course at Artison, www.artison.co.uk. Based just outside the town it is an excellent and pleasurable way of learning a new skill where you will be given a warm welcome. A day’s course costs £95 and includes a delicious lunch and homemade refreshments and is well worth the money. I spent a day there recently painting a decorative box and for someone quite useless was very pleased with the result! Our tutor was excellent and very patient, ensuring everyone achieved a professional and beautiful box to take home. A big thank you to Sarah our tutor for her patience and enthusiasm of teaching us a new skill.

Why not visit Masham Festive Market is this coming weekend (7th December) where the town will be putting on a festive display with Santa’s Grotto, carol singers, plenty of stalls and festive treats. Swinton Park just outside the town also now has a shop stocking local fare from their estate alongside Yorkshire gifts. https://www.visitmasham.com/