Obviously now December’s here it’s acceptable to consider dipping a toe gently into the world of seasonal shopping. Right?
And to ease the pain the neighbourhood’s popular Christmas Market Trail is back this weekend, popping up in key locations around E11, including St John’s Church, Leytonstone Library Hall, Lister Hall and the pedestrian area near the Matalan store.
What to expect? Stones Throw Market, Leytonstone Designers Market (who also hold monthly markets at the Northcote), plus a highly rummageable array of over 70 stalls offering retro wares, designer goods, crafts, kids’ stuff – and of course a Santa’s Grotto. There’s even a free pop-up cinema in the church (from 4pm onwards).
And new this year is a chance to sample a whole bunch of festive foods and drink in the forecourt of St John’s Church, including Zara’s Treats, who dish up a mean vegan curry with rice, as well as Caribbean bean patties and fritters (not to mention special homemade sauces).
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Thirsty? Why, Theatre of Wine, who opened their classy shop a year ago up towards Leytonstone High Road station, will be on hand for a chill-deflecting glass or two of mulled wine. Ah! That’s more like it.