The village of Blanchland is gearing up to celebrate the history of its 12th century abbey at a special event this weekend.
Blanchland Abbey was founded in 1165 – and the Abbey Alive & Artisan Maker Market will reveal many of its historic treasures and related stories on Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 November.
The event will give a fascinating account of archaeology and research carried out this year as part of the Abbey Alive project, as well as plans for the future of the Abbey, which is a popular visitor attraction.
There will also be live music and an opportunity to watch skilled art and maker demonstrations, including stained glass, wood carving, textiles, metal embossing and calligraphy. Experts in each of these traditional skills will be on hand to give visitors a go at trying them out.
On Saturday, specialists will include ANH Artisan Furniture Maker, Megan Barnett Stained Glass Artist and Conservator, Kate Hunter Metal Embossing, and Chris Bowen Calligraphy. There will be live music from Julie & William with folk tunes Saturday from 11am.
There will also be a special performance at 2pm by students of Consett Academy who have been working with singer-songwriter Katie Doherty to produce a song about Blanchland.
On Sunday, ANH Artisan Furniture will be joined by Jenny Hammond Stained Glass Artist, Louise Goult Embroidery and Textile Artist. There will be live music on Sunday from 11am with Allendale Handbell Ringers – with an opportunity for visitors to have a go themselves.
The weekend will also include the wonderful Christmas Artisan Makers Market – with various stalls in the village hall and Lord Crewe Gatehouse.
For more information visit
https://www.blanchland.org/the-treasures-of-blanchland-project/
https://www.blanchland.org/visit-blanchland/whats-on/
https://www.instagram.com/blanchlandabbey/
https://www.facebook.com/events/924503836196906/924504592863497?ref=newsfeed&locale=en_GB