Stately home set to house a festive fair

HOPETOUN House, one of Scotland’s finest stately homes, is holding the biggest Christmas shopping event in its history this weekend.

Hopetoun has had to knock back stallholders after more than 60 stalls were snapped up by traders for its annual Christmas fair.

Mhairi MacDougall, Hopetoun’s marketing manager, said: "Space this year sold out by early autumn and we are delighted to feature over 60 exhibitors, the biggest number yet, some of whom will be housed in the magnificent state rooms.

"There is a strong emphasis on style and quality covering all price ranges, with items such as beautiful leather and suede clothes for women, award-winning handmade jam and preserve gift packs, designer silver jewellery, alpaca slippers and hats and seaweed skin foods."

Entry is 5, allowing visitors access to the fair and the house, which will be decorated for Christmas.

Ms MacDougall added: "A percentage of the money will be donated to RNLI Scotland, who will have a stand selling Christmas cards."

The event is open on Friday, Saturday and Sunday from 10am.