I was just idly flicking through the local paper and checking out the events section when I came across a whole page of Boot Fairs. They're everywhere and so must be very popular.
The only time I ever went to one was with some new man I was desperately trying to impress. So when he bought me a fishing rod the gratitude I expressed was totally disproportionate for something that was so not jewellery! Anyway, he duly took me fishing (I was less keen to impress by now) and showed me how to "cast" my rod into the water. I watched enthralled as the reel of fishing line rapidly unravelled stopping only when it was empty. I was instructed in no uncertain terms to spend the rest of the day retrieving and untangling the line - a complete and utter waste of time but I needed transport home. The only thing I wanted to impress on Jeremy Fisher on the way home was my deep displeasure at his behaviour - I never saw him again!
Anyway so much for my boot fair scars! I may venture out to one of those listed below, but if you can't get there this weekend they happen at least on a regular basis and in many cases weekly.
Maidstone Market - Market and Indoor Boot Fair at Barker Road, Maidstone Every Saturday 7am-1.30pm Tel: 01622 602258 Boot Fair prices from £13.50
Hop Farm Afternoon Boot Fairs - Beltring, Paddock Wood TN123 6PY Saturday 16th & Sunday 17th October - Saturday 23rd & Sunday 24th October -Saturday 30th & Sunday 31st October. No Booking necessary. £10 per pitch per van or car. Stalls 1pm. Buyers before 2pm £1.00, after 2pm 50p. Toilets & Refreshments. No unauthorised sellers of food and drink. Tel: 07807 358042
The Best Boot Fair - Sutton Road, A274 Maidstone (opp Golf Driving Range) ME17 3NG - Sunday 17th October - Cars £9, vans £12, Admission 50p (children free) entrance before 7am £1. No need to book. Toilets and refreshments. No unauthorised sellers of food or drink or counterfeit goods. Gates open 6.30am. Excellent location, thousands of buyers every week. Tel: 07761 155309/07841 458067.
Staplehurst Car Boot Sale - British Rail Car Park, Staplehurst, Nr Maidstone TN12 0QH - A227 Hastings Road - Sunday 17th October and every Sunday 52 weeks a year. 7am-2pm. Pitch £5. Entry FREE. New! Bikers & Burgers on last Sunday of every month - show your bike and have a burger! Toilets and free parking. Tel: 01474 709938.
Have a great time, and try not to get hooked by the fishing rods!!?! Don't forget to contact me at maidstone@thebestof.co.uk if you have a boot fair or any other event you'd like mentioned.
Happy bargain hunting until next time
India J