Frequently asked questions
Here are some answers to the most frequent questions regarding booking onto a Beginner Watercolour Escape Day. However, please do get in touch if there is anything else that I have not covered. Just message me here
I’m not very creative, and I can’t paint, will I be ok?
Absolutely! This is the one concern everyone has when they want to come along. Afraid of feeling foolish, worried they will be rubbish, scared it’s not right. Honestly though, rest assured everyone feels vunlerable no matter how much they have painted in the past.
Everyone works at their own pace, and the groups are kept small for individual attention (usually maximum 12 people.) Although we work from the same theme each student is creating their own unique piece. You won’t be left struggling and I promise to do my very best in explaining and encouraging you to be brave.
I have taught very young children music for over 20 years, so I take a gentle view on teaching adults as I can understand how as a child they were perhaps humilated when they tried to be creative in school.
The sessions are friendly and relaxed, with no pressure to be perfect. Inclusion is really important and I understand some people may feel desperately shy and nervous. All materials are supplied, and with a beautiful location you are sure to be inspired to be creative and soon feel relaxed.
What time does it start and finish?
This depends on the venue and whether it’s a full or half day experience. Please arrive 10 minutes before we start so you can grab a drink, are relaxed and ready, as we will start on the time specified so we can make the most of our time together.
Give yourself plenty of time so you don’t arrive last minute feeling stressed before we start.
You will enjoy the day more if you arrive calm and open minded. For start and finish timings please check each event and venue details.
Please note: For full day events they run on flexible timing to accommodate the pace at which each participant works. For half day events we need to finish promptly as there may be another event starting straight afterwards.
Do I need to bring anything?
Wear old clothes that you don’t mind getting paint stained on them. Perhaps bring an apron. It’s best to have comfortable loose clothing you feel relax in, that you can layer as we all feel the cold /the warmth differently so being prepaired for both will ensure you are comfortable throughout the day.
What is the lunch arrangments?
For events where lunch is included, a buffet lunch is planned for the booking. This is arranged by an outside catering company. However, depending on the number of bookings, lunch may be served individually rather than as a buffet if it is a very small group. Please be assured that the lunch provided will be of equivalent value, so you can enjoy the same quality of food whichever option is offered.
Are vegetarian options available, and can you cater for dietary requirements?
The buffet includes a selection of meat and vegetarian sandwiches, quiche and savoury bites. If you have any food allergies or specific dietary requirements, please let me know in advance so I can advise you accordingly. As the catering is provided externally, we are unable to guarantee specialist alternatives. If you require a particular type of milk please bring your own.
If you book a half day workshop, lunch is not included unless specifically stated however it is possible to order lunch as most venues have a tea room.
Can I bring my partner /non painting friend ?
Unfortunately they cannot attend the actual studio venue as it can put other people off the experience of creating, as they feel self conscious. Depending on the venue there may be other things your friend can do whilst you paint. Just message me for further information.
Disabled Access
Please let me know prior to booking if you have access issues or need support as it should not be a problem depending on venue. At Rudyard Lake there is a lift and a fabulous venue with a disable toilet. Westport Lake Visitor Centre is all on the same level
Can I cancel?
Once booked your payment secures your place ensuring no one else can have your place. As these events are small groups, cancelling your place may make the whole event unviable. Therefore payments are not refundable nor transferable to another retreat date unless I can fill the place.
Art materials are ordered and paid for in advance, including paying for room hire and catering etc., A lot of preparation goes into each event including planning and preparation. Perhaps a friend could attend in your place?
Please note in the unlikely event of the course being cancelled by myself the organiser, you will be offered a full refund of fees paid. However, this will not cover costs such as accommodation or travel costs.
Where is Rudyard Lake?
The lake is 2 miles north of Leek on the Staffordshire-Cheshire border. From Leek take the A523 towards Macclesfield for approx, 1 mile. Turn left onto B5331 for half a mile to go past Rudyard Station, and then take a right at the mini-roundabout. Turn right again to head down Lake Road where you will find the Hotel Rudyard or the path down to the Dam shortly after. Make sure you are going to the South end of the lake. Please note you will need to phone Joan before 9.30am if you are lost.
If using the app “What three words” you will find the venue at tree.public.fractions
More details can be found directly on Rudyard Lake website. Please ensure you spend time prior in finding out where you are going especially at Rudyard Lake. When people arrive late, it really disrupts the whole atmosphere. I appreciate there are times when there is delays and that cannot be helped. However, coming late because of not making an effort prior to learning where the venue is, makes it stressful for everyone concerned. Hence why I recommend you arrive half hour prior, to settle in and ready to begin painting together.
Parking at Rudyard Lake
Parking is included in the price of full-day events at Rudyard Lake. For half-day events, parking is payable separately by attendees.
where is Westport Lake?
Based near Stoke On Trent, this hidden gem can be found on Westport Lake Road, Tunstall, Stoke On Trent, Staffordshire, ST6 4RZ.
Find out more about Westport Lake Parking is not included. however there is pay and display machine next to the visitor center and costs approximately £3.00 for all day.