Autumn Intensive Residential Retreat: October 2026

Autumn Intensive Residential Retreat: October 2026

A once in a lifetime opportunity to dive deep with Phillipa and Jenny

October 4-12, 2026

Askham Hall

Lake District

Multi-discipline

From $12,357

Deposit £500

With the Following Tutors

Jenny Adin-Christine
Phillipa Turnbull

Retreat Overview

Join us for an enriching autumn retreat at Askham Hall, set in the heart of the stunning English Lake District. From October 4-12 2026, immerse yourself in a tranquil environment that blends historic charm with modern luxury. Participants will enjoy five days of intensive stitching workshops led by esteemed tutors Jenny Adin-Christie and Phillipa Turnbull.

Nestled in the picturesque village of Askham, this family-owned country house hotel offers elegant accommodations, exquisite gardens, and award-winning dining. Connect with fellow embroidery enthusiasts, explore scenic walking trails, and indulge in a creative and relaxing getaway. Secure your spot for this unforgettable experience.

The Details

Full Itinerary

October 4-12, 2026

Day 1 - TRAVEL & ARRIVAL
Retreat starts at 1pm in Edinburgh. Travel by coach to Askham Hall. Arrival at Askham for afternoon tea

Day 2 - FULL DAY TUITION
Classes with Phillipa or Jenny

Day 3 - FULL DAY TUITION
Classes with Phillipa or Jenny

Day 4 - EXCURSION

Day 5 - FULL DAY TUITION
Classes with Phillipa or Jenny

Day 6 - FREE STITCHING DAY
A day to stitch and make progress on your design, with tutors available for guidance and support. Optional local afternoon trip.

Day 7 - FULL DAY TUITION
Classes with Phillipa or Jenny

Day 8 - FREE STITCHING DAY
A day to stitch and make progress on your design, with tutors available for guidance and support. Optional local morning trip.

Day 9 - FAREWELL
Retreat ends at Askham Hall at 9am. Onward travel included to: Penrith Train Station, Edinburgh Airport and Edinburgh Hotel (city centre)

Arrival & Departure

Arrival: The retreat will officially begin at 1pm on Saturday 4th October 2026 at our Edinburgh Hotel, were we will meet to travel south Askham Hall together.

Departure: The retreat will end at 9am at Askham Hall on Sunday 12th October 2026. Onward travel will be provided to Penrith Train Station, Edinburgh Airport and our original Edinburgh Hotel (city centre).

Tuition

At this unique retreat, students will spend a whole week with one of two tutors, who will accompany you on an immersive needlework experience!

Phillipa Turnbull - will be offering the opportunity to dive into colour technique & design during a specially designed course.

Jenny Adin-Christie - will be offering a brand new design she is working on in collaboration with the Crewel Work Company.

What's Included

Accommodation & Food
8 nights full board accommodation at Askham Hall.

Tuition & Kits
6 full days of tuition, workshop kits, loan of a frames, magnifying light and other equipment, refreshments during class, and a goody bag.

Excursions & Lectures
Stately home and castle visits, day out in the Lake District, lectures and informal stitching sessions, as well as optional walks and Lake District visits.

Travel
Coach travel to and from Edinburgh airport and necessary travel as per the programme.

The Tutors

Jenny Adin-Christie & Phillipa Turnbull

A duo of expert tutor will accompany students during this retreat. In a new format with opportunities to spend extended time with each tutor, this retreat gives students a chance to dive deeper into this chosen design and complete significant sections of their embroidery.

The Location

Set on the edge the Beautiful Lake District

The Lake District, located in Northwest England, is a stunning region known for its breathtaking landscapes, serene lakes, and rugged mountains. It's a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, and famously inspired poets like William Wordsworth. The Lake District National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to England's highest peak, Scafell Pike, and its deepest lake, Wastwater.

Our retreat will take place on the edge of the Lake District National Park area, in the heart of the Eden Valley, an area of outstanding natural beauty. Set around the River Eden, which flows through Appleby, the Eden valley is a mix of lush green countryside, traditional towns and attractive sandstone villages some dating back to Viking times. To the south are the peaceful Howgill Fells, a favourite of the well-known fellwalker Alfred Wainwright.

Askham Hall

Discover the charm of Askham Hall, a luxurious vacation destination nestled in the picturesque English Lake District. This historic country house hotel offers elegant accommodations, exquisite gardens, and award-winning dining. Perfect for relaxation and adventure, guests can explore scenic walking trails, indulge in spa treatments, and experience the rich heritage of the surrounding village of Askham.

What's Included

Accommodation & Food
8 nights full board accommodation throughout (breakfast, lunch, dinner, and refreshment break during class included)
Tuition & Kits
4 full days and 2 half days of tuition, 1 workshop kit, loan of a frames, magnifying light and other equipment, and a goody bag.
Excursions & Lectures
Full day excursion to Muncaster Castle, as well as optional half day local visits and walks. Evening lectures.
Travel
Coach travel during the retreat as required by itinerary. Transfers from local train stations and airport are available on request. Group transfer to Manchester city centre or airport on departure.

Meet your tutors

Jenny Adin-Christine

She specialises in historically inspired Metal Thread Embroidery, Stumpwork and Whitework. She trained on the Royal School of Needlework’s intensive Apprenticeship, graduating with distinction in 1999.
Learn More About Jenny Adin-Christine

Phillipa Turnbull

The founder of the business over 30 years ago, Phillipa has experienced the ups and downs of the embroidery industry. As well as tutoring, and overseeing both teams, Phillipa drives product development.
Learn More About Phillipa Turnbull

Escape to the Country!