The wet weather didn't dampen the Christmas spirit at Heaton Fold Garden Centre over the weekend.
The garden centre's popular Christmas Artisan Markets are back again this year.
On Sunday, November 23, market stall owners braved the winter weather and set up their stalls for a day of festivities.
From 10am until 3pm, residents flocked to the garden centre on Overdale Drive to browse handmade gifts and enjoy homecooked treats.
There was also a visit from Father Christmas and two snowmen.
Louise makes aromatherapy products, with a focus on keeping them as environmentally friendly as possible.
As a trained chemist, aromatherapist and keen gardener, Louise was interested in the raw materials and processes involved in making skincare.
"Our hand creams are vegan and all our products are free from animal testing," said Louise.
"We currently use glass, aluminium and cardboard packaging to ensure the containers can be as recyclable as possible."
Karrot Bakery (Image: VQ)
Our next stop was at Karrot Bakery, a family-run business led by Kyle Bashford and dedicated to Kyle's mum, Julie Bashford, who died from cancer in 2023.
Kyle always looked forward to his mum's carrot cake and after she passed away, he was "determined to share the love and warmth that her cake brought."
Magari's (Image: VQ)
We then went along to Magari's, who makes authentic homemade sourdough.
"It's all handmade by me, with just flour, water and salt," said business owner Emma Wohler.
Emma supplies all things sourdough to different businesses across Bolton.
She said: "Although I've been making products for family, friends and clients for about six years, it was during the pandemic that I decided to make it into a business."
Joanne is a qualified holistic therapist in Reiki, Reflexology and Aromatherapy.
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"When I started suffering from rosacea and sensitive skin during my mid to late 40s, I started looking at natural ingredients and formulating products to help myself," said Joanne.
"I now realise my skin issues were part of my menopause journey, so if you're at this stage in life, I hope my skincare can help you too."
Joanne has also set up her stall at menopause fairs in Chorley and at vegan fairs.
Wilderswood Storytellers (Image: VQ)
Next was Wilderswood Storytellers, to meet Peter Brownlow who writes children's books.
"There are short bedtime stories for under-fives and also some stories for older children," said Peter.
The stories are always animal themed and beautifully illustrated.
Amber Lily Studio (Image: VQ)
Amber Lily Studio was also set up for the day, showing off her upcycled and recycled embroidery pieces.
Amber Lily is a contemporary textile artist whose practice explores the interplay of colour, texture, and mark-making.
The Craft Hares (Image: VQ)
The Craft Hares were wrapped up warm for the day, in their alpaca-fur bobble hats.
The family business specialises in creating handcrafted items, lovingly made by Jean Holgate, Emily Parker and Shaun Keogh.
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No trip to the Christmas Markets would be complete without stopping by Heaton Fold's Saloon Bar & Provisions run by Kevan.
"We showcase our stock at the market every month," said Kevan.
Heaton Fold's Saloon Bar & Provisions (Image: NQ)
The Lancashire Hawks and Owls were also at the market with some impressive birds of prey.
Bolton with Le Moors Rotary Club were in their best Christmas outfits spreading festive cheer.
If you didn't get the chance to visit Heaton Fold Garden Centre's Christmas market, there will be another one on December 14.
Visitors to the market included Bolton Mayor Cllr David Chadwick.
He said: "It was good to be back at Heaton Fold Garden Centre for their Christmas Markets.
"The markets had stalls selling handmade gifts, Christmas decorations, and festive food, whilst Father Christmas paid a visit, courtesy of the Rotary.
"I also got the chance to hold rescued falcons and owls from Lancashire Hawks and Owls - an unexpected surprise!
"If you missed out today, don't worry as the market will be open again on Sunday 14 December from 10am - 3pm."