Workshops
Residential Retreat - The Black Swan
Jacqueline, Louise and Philippa invite you to be spoilt. Cozy up and escape for a glamorous inclusive 2 nights, 2 days embroidery, meals, teas and coffees. Learning how to make traditional bears and bunnies has never been more of a treat. Places are limited for this mixed ability, besoke workshop so do book early to avoid disappointment.
15th – 17th March 2027
About the Black Swan
Your special residential retreat at The Black Swan, Ravenstonedale, starts on the first evening with a Meet & Great before dinner. The Black Swan hosts a fabulous kitchen so expect to indulge in some culinary delights during your stay. After a cozy nights sleep you’ll spend the next 2 days absorbed in your creative bubble with like minded people in a relaxing creative environment. What’s not to love.
The Black Swan in Ravenstonedale is a charming 17th-century country inn nestled in the picturesque Eden Valley, on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales. Known for its award-winning hospitality, it offers luxurious, individually styled rooms, seasonal locally sourced food, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere complete with open fires and real ales. A favourite among walkers and dog lovers, it’s perfectly placed for exploring the surrounding fells and countryside. The inn regularly features in The Good Hotel Guide and has received accolades from Visit England and The AA. With a strong focus on local culture, it also hosts craft workshops, artist exhibitions, and seasonal tasting events, making it not just a place to stay, but a true destination for relaxation, creativity, and inspiration.
About this Workshop
Your creative experience will begin on arrival with a meet and greet cocktail in the bar before dinner. Both days will start with a yummy breakfast. Lunch is also provided on both workshop days. After a fun, busy workshop on day 1 you’ll be invited to relax in the snug or bar. Then why not take the opportunity for a walk in the gorgeous surrounding countryside before dinner. This is a stunning part of the world. After another busy workshop Day 2 will end at check out time. However you don’t need to leave straight away. Why not stay an extra night? Various accommodation options are available on request.
Workshop Goals:
Day 1 will be about cutting out your mohair and stitching the body parts together using mostly back stitch, and some whip stitch, to secure tricky bits. We’ll begin inserting cotter pin joints then stutffing and then sticthing the arms and legs closed using ladder stitch.
Day 2 will be about stuffing and moulding the head. Inserting eyes, attching ears and embroidering the snout. We’ll then be able to attach the cotter pin joints and assemble our bear or bunny.
All the materials you need will be provided, in your bespoke kit, designed by Jacqueline.
Venue Highlights
Want to know more about this venue? Click the vidio thumbnail to explore some of the unique particulars.
The Black Swan is located in the peaceful village of Ravenstonedale, Cumbria, nestled in the Eden Valley near the Howgill Fells and on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales. It’s easily accessible by car—just a 10-minute drive from the M6 (Junction 38 at Tebay) via the A685 towards Kirkby Stephen, with a right turn into the village. For those travelling by train, the nearest station is Kirkby Stephen on the scenic Settle–Carlisle Line, around 4 miles away, with local taxis or limited bus services available for the short onward journey. The village is also served by bus route 572, with a stop just a minute’s walk from the inn. Although public transport is limited, the journey is well worth it for the idyllic setting and warm hospitality that awaits.
