Frequently asked questions

Here are some answers to the most frequent questions regarding booking onto a Beginner Watercolour Art Retreat at Rudyard Lake. 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. 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?

We “officially” start at 10am however if you can be there for around 9.30am for refreshments and getting settled. 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. We finish 4pm and for half day events we finish at 12.45pm and clear away by 1pm or thereabouts

Please note: For full day retreats they run on flexible timing to accommodate the pace at which each participant works. For half day events we need to finish promptly as they 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.

Do you cater for vegetarian as well as meat?  I have a food intolerance, is that a problem?

I have been a vegetarian myself for over 45 years so I totally understand.

I have arranged for a lunch from an outside catering company of freshly made sandwiches and cakes and ample tea and coffee all day. However, if you have any specific dietary requirements, please let me know beforehand when booking and I’ll try to make sure your request is catered for, otherwise there will be a mix of both vegetarian and meat. If you require special milk please bring your own.

If you book for the half day retreat lunch is not included unless specifically stated however it is possible to order at the tea room if booked for Rudyard Lake

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

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 exactly is Rudyard Lake and is there parking?

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 

I’m planning a weekend away what else is there to do?

There is lots to do and see in the surrounding area. The nearest town is Leek or Macclesfield and nearest hotel is Rudyard Hotel. However, there are lots of other accommodations in Leek.

Just email me directly and I will give you more ideas of places to visit whilst you are here.
Also more details can be found directly on Rudyard Lake website

Rudyard Lake Location – what three word

tree.public.fractions

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.

Boat ride is not for me at Rudyard Lake

With some events depending on the weather there may be a complimentary boat ride across the lake.  However, please let me know when booking if you would prefer not to do so and we can use that time instead to continue painting at the venue instead.

Parking is free at Rudyard Lake

However, please put a note on your dashboard to say you are at the retreat