It’s a versatile old thing glass, isn’t it. Windows, bottles, light-bulbs, greenhouses – where would we be without it? And old is certainly the operative word. Glass has been produced by people since around 3,500 BC (and produced by lightning hitting sand since the dawn of time) so it is hardly surprising that in the several millennia since, glass has been used by craftspeople and artists, so that it is now one of the most sought-after materials for collectors and lovers of art.
The Cambridge Glass Fair is an annual celebration of glass in all its forms. It is back at Chilford Hall near Linton this month, and features around 100 exhibitors from across the country and from further afield, showing and selling glass in all its forms, from the sculptural and decorative to practical antiques and collectables from many different eras.
As ever, this year’s fair will feature special exhibitions, demonstrations, talks and book signings, with this edition’s foyer exhibition devoted to British engraved drinking glasses from 1770 to 1850, featuring more than 100 rare and antique drinking vessels, tumblers and tankards. There’s plenty of free parking on site, a bistro on site and live music at lunchtime, to help make it a real day out.

Cambridge Glass Fair, Sunday 26 February, 10:30-16:00. Cost: £5 adults (accompanied children free). Chilford Hall Vineyard, near Linton www.cambridgeglassfair.com