Residents and visitors to North Yorkshire will have a new destination to explore this holiday season following the announcement of a new craft event. Visit York has confirmed the inaugural Ampleforth Abbey Christmas Craft Market will take place on 28 November and 29 November 2026.
The event is a celebration of local artists and independent traders from across the region. It aims to give these small business owners a platform to sell their handmade goods directly to the public during the busy festive period. The market is being featured as a key addition to the region’s 2026 festive calendar, complementing the major celebrations held in York city centre.
The market is a partnership with Ampleforth Abbey, a Benedictine monastery located approximately 20 miles north of York that has been a part of North Yorkshire since 1802. While the Abbey is famous for its cider and 1,200-acre apple orchards, this new event will host visitors on the Abbey grounds to showcase its seasonal traditions alongside local craft offerings.
Organisers hope the market will provide more variety for shoppers looking for unique gifts while supporting the local economy. The addition of the craft market is intended to expand the range of festive activities available for those visiting the region during the two-day event.
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