Take a look at what our team are getting up to this month and see if you can find anything that inspires you to get you out and about this July or to make a note of for 2017…
A Spinning Class With a Difference
The Lake District
If you love to understand the routes of craftsmanship as much as we do, spinning is a wonderfully therapeutic past time that uncovers the journey from sheep to sweater. The Cartmel Handspun Spinning School gives you an excellent basis with which to get to grips with the principles of hand spinning. You’ll begin your lessons on a drop spindle and eventually progress to the iconic wheel!
Durham July 14-17 July
Watch the battle of the brass bands at this unique festival in Englands North East. The likes of Hackney Colliery Band, known for their unique big band covers of songs by Blackstreet and the Prodigy, will be joined by a multitude of contemporary and traditional brass acts. The festival is accompanied by street art and installations, giving a fresh and vibrant feel to this part of Durham’s heritage.
Pembrokeshire
If you’re a leather lover or a magpie for a new handbag, perhaps it’s time to learn how to make your own. Head over to Pembrokeshire this July and you could join a course with ‘Leather Courses Britain’ and learn how to make your very own leather bag.
Take a look at their range of courses for making either a tote, messenger or satchel bags among other things. They’re not cheap courses to do, but if you end up with a fine bag and the skills to make more, that’s priceless!
The Queens House
Greenwich
The Queens House was built in 1616 by architect Inigo Jones and is set in the beautiful area of Greenwich. For the last year, it’s been closed for refurbishment and is set to reopen in July on its 400 year anniversary. This building boasts some of Britain’s most historically significant architecture, with its classical design and the stunning central spiral staircase being a particularly special feature. The building also houses an impressive art collection including work by Gainsborough, Hogarth and the van de Veldes. Keep your eyes peeled for the official opening date.
Bath
July – August 31st
Between the months of July and August the Roman Baths, in Bath, will open their doors until 10pm every evening so that you can explore this fascinating historic building by torchlight. With stunning Roman artefacts, 2000-year-old pavements and the steam rising from the Great Bath, you’ll find it an utterly enchanting and memorable experience. The Pump Room restaurant close by is the perfect way to round off the evening. It too is open late throughout this period and features live music every evening.
The Cotswolds
The Cotswolds are synonymous with Arts and Crafts, so if you’re inspired by this movement in design, it’s time take a visit to this beautiful part of the world. With the weather warming up in July and August, it’s the perfect time to plan your walks. To add a little structure to your trip, the Arts and Crafts Museum in Cheltenham have pulled together a number of things to look out for and some tours to explore using Cheltenham as a base. Click through for more details…
