A Creative Escape: Rediscovering Friendship, Craft, and Calm in the Lake District
Discovering how a weekend away can help you to reconnect with yourself, old friends, and the joy of trying something new.
The Lake District in Cumbria is more than just a destination; it’s a place that stirs the soul. With its waterfalls, fells, and timeless villages, it offers not just a feast for the eyes, but an invitation to reconnect—with nature, with others, and with yourself—no matter the season.
The allure of the mountains was so inviting that the week after our wedding some 32 years ago, my husband and I packed our wedding gifts into the car and headed to a small village just outside of Carlisle to start our married life together. Although my husband had a job to go to, I didn’t. I had left my job in finance and followed him in what felt like the opening chapter of an exciting and romantic novel. A new adventure together, with so much to explore on our doorstep, it was a far cry from the city life we had both left behind.
During those first years of marriage, we fully embraced the area—hiking on weekends, boating on the lakes, and discovering lakeside villages and hamlets with amazing places to eat. Back then, it felt like the Lake District was a haven for walkers and adventurers seeking breathtaking views. We eventually left Cumbria to chase new adventures in the French Alps, but the Lakes never left us.
Over the years, we returned many times, introducing this beautiful area to our children. But it wasn’t until a recent visit with a friend that I discovered a side of the Lake District I hadn’t fully embraced before: its arts and crafts.
I had always admired Lakeland artisans and their work in pottery, glass blowing, wood turning, and painting—many of which are showcased in local galleries. But this trip revealed something more: the chance to experience these crafts firsthand, immersing myself in the creative process rather than merely observing it.
With weekend bags tossed into the car, my friend and I headed north to the Lake District in true Thelma-and-Louise style. Our destination was the lovely village of Greystoke, just five miles from both Penrith and Ullswater Lake. We had booked a Saturday morning calligraphy course, one of many creative workshops hosted by Quirky Workshops.
Founded by my dear friend Annie in 2005, Quirky Workshops has long supported local crafts and artisans. Annie converted a 17th-century farmhouse and small barn into a hub for creativity and later expanded with a second larger dedicated studio. Over the years whilst juggling family and work, despite my best intentions, I’d never found time to visit. This trip was not just an opportunity to try something new but to reconnect with a cherished old friend.
Deciding to fully embrace our ‘girly weekend,’ we stayed a mile up the lane in an off-grid shepherd’s hut on the Rowley Estate. Nestled beside the River Petteril, the hut was a peaceful escape from the noise of the world. Though snug for two women in their 50s, it offered every comfort—from a fully functioning shower, to essential large wine glasses for evening chats.
After a leisurely al fresco breakfast on the deck, serenaded by the gentle sound of the river, we headed to Greystoke. The gravel drive of Greystoke Craft Gardens opens to a breathtaking view of Greystoke Castle and its grounds. Tables and chairs dot the raised lawn, inviting visitors to linger over coffee or lunch while soaking in the surroundings.
Inside the barn, the studio was light and welcoming, with dedicated spaces for each participant. The small group sizes made it easy to connect with others. Among our fellow students were friends sharing a creative morning, two daughters treating their mother for her birthday, and a young couple enjoying a weekend getaway.
Each of us was greeted with a beautifully decorated name tag written in calligraphy and provided with a dip pen, stone heart shaped ink pot, and worksheets. In the center of the room, a display of colored inks and pens sparked excitement. Coffee and homemade biscuits added a welcoming touch.
Our tutor Claire was exceptional—her passion for calligraphy was infectious, and her calm, fun teaching style made even beginners feel at ease. Mastering the thick and thin strokes required patience, and I initially felt frustrated when my nib scratched or the pressure wasn’t quite right. But as I focused, a sense of calm took over. The rhythm of the pen and the flow of the ink became meditative. It was more than a skill—it was a moment of mindfulness, a chance to clear my mind and embrace the present.
Time flew by, and soon we were experimenting with colored inks and our creativity ran free. We left with our pens, worksheets, and a new appreciation for the art. Before heading out, we peeked into Squirrel Studio, where a jewelry-making workshop was in full swing. The energy was contagious as participants proudly shared their creations.
Sitting with Annie over lunch, I reflected on how much time had passed since those early days in Cumbria. Life had moved on, but moments like these reminded me how easily connections can be rekindled. Life’s most precious moments are often hidden in the spaces where we reconnect—with ourselves, with friends, or with something new and unfamiliar.
This weekend wasn’t just about calligraphy or the beautiful setting. It was about rediscovering the importance of taking time for ourselves, nurturing friendships, and embracing creativity. It’s a reminder that the simplest joys—trying something new, connecting with others, and savouring the moment—are often the most profound.
Who would you love to reconnect with, and what experience have you always wanted to try? Life’s most precious moments are waiting—all you have to do is say yes.
If you want to experience a workshop or course at Quirky Workshops in the Lake District there is an extensive programme to choose from on the website www.quirkyworkshops.co.uk
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