Willow Work Holidays

What’s included?
Courses are based at Gartmore House; all rooms are en-suite with tea and coffee making facilities and many have wonderful views over Flanders Moss Nature Reserve, towards Stirling. Your course includes full board; all meals are freshly prepared by our chefs. Enjoy a glass of wine as you relax in the dining room looking out over the views and discussing your day’s work. Bar facilities are available during dinner. 5-Night (or more) courses include an optional visit to Loch Katrine (with one hour cruise) or The Scottish Wool Centre in Aberfoyle (transport is provided).

Complimentary transfers from Stirling train station are available on the arrival and departure days (pick-up from the station at 15:30, departs Gartmore House at 10:00).

Sunday
16:00 Arrive late afternoon to afternoon tea in the lounge 
18:00 Welcome talk in the lounge and meet your tutor 
18:30 Dinner
21:00 Tea/coffee in the lounge

Monday & Tuesday
08:30 Breakfast
10:00 Course begins (course will run until 16:00)
11:00 Tea/coffee and cake/biscuits
13:00 Lunch
15:30 Tea/coffee and cake/biscuits
16:00 Course ends for the day, however you are free to continue your work in the studio if you wish
18:30 Dinner
21:00 Tea/coffee in the lounge

Wednesday
08:30 Breakfast
10:00 Course begins (course will run until 12:30)
11:00 Tea/coffee and cake/biscuits
12:30 Lunch
After lunch there is an optional visit to either Loch Katrine (includes a 1 hr sailing on the loch) or the Scottish Wool Centre in Aberfoyle Alternatively you can opt to stay at the House and continue your work in the studio (untutored)
18:30 Dinner
21:00 Tea/coffee in the lounge

Thursday
08:30 Breakfast
10:00 Course begins (course will run until 16:00)
11:00 Tea/coffee and cake/biscuits
13:00 Lunch
15:30 Tea/coffee and cake/biscuits
16:00 Course ends for the day, however you are free to continue your work in the studio if you wish
19:00 Celebratory dinner with entertainment
21:00 Tea/coffee in the lounge

Friday
08:30 Breakfast then check-out
10:00 Latest check-out

All course materials and equipment are included.

Tutor – Anna Turnbull

Your tutor Anna Turnbull is a basket maker and willow sculptor. She is a member of The Basketmakers’ Association, Scottish Basketmakers’ Circle and Heritage Craft Association.

From an early age Anna has loved drawing, making and creating. Upon leaving school she studied Fine Art at Camberwell School of Art, London, then worked as a photographic artist and silversmith. A few years later she trained to teach whilst continuing on her creative journey. Drawn to tactile media, natural materials and textiles she discovered willow. It is currently her primary creative outlet.

She grows a variety of species, each with different qualities. Employing the traditional skills of basketry she weaves baskets, adapting these techniques to more contemporary forms and sculptural pieces. She is building a reputation for weaving ‘beautiful rhythmic willows sculptures’.

Anna exhibits widely, makes work to commission and enjoying teaching she runs regular workshops.

“It is a privilege to help others along their creative journey, sharing skills, overcoming challenges and supporting them as they produce something of which they can be proud.”

You can find out more about tutor Anna’s work on her website https://www.biteabout.co.uk/willow

‘Exceptional value for money. You made us feel welcome from booking to departure. Nothing ever appeared too much trouble and that level of service is something to be exceptionally proud of. We will return next year to enjoy the house and crafting courses. With heartfelt thanks.’

‘A lovely old house brought back to life, well done.’

‘Lovely atmosphere for learning and relaxation. Afternoon tea ‘treats’ much appreciated.’

‘With regard to the accommodation, this was more than comfortable, the food delicious and plentiful and all the staff warm, friendly and helpful.’

Our team is here to help with any queries that you may have about the course or your stay at Gartmore House. You may also like to take a look at our FAQs blog post to see if we answer any of your queries there. Don’t forget that our team are happy to assist with any questions – please feel free to get in touch.