Rainham Hall Frost Fayre

On the weekend of the 26th & 27th of November Rainham Hall will be re-living the wintry tradition of an eighteenth century Frost Fayre. This event will be the start of the Christmas celebrations at the Hall.

Frost Fayres were an eighteenth century tradition that John Harle, who built Rainham Hall, would have enjoyed during his time in London. There were times during Captain Harle’s lifetime when temperatures would plummet and the Thames would freeze over. Trade and transport in certain parts of the river would cease, so you would expect life to be very difficult. But Londoners found an ingenious way to make the most of the weather. Frost Fayres would pop up on the ice and Londoners would enjoy games, gambling, temporary taverns, tradesmen selling their wares, food and lots of entertainment.

Unfortunately we can’t freeze the Rainham Creek so we will be re-imagining the tradition in the Courtyard and Stables at Rainham Hall. Join us for stalls selling gifts, food and Christmas treats accompanied with entertainment and merriment. It promises to be fun for all the family and the perfect chance to pick up a few unique Christmas gifts.