About this trip
Immerse yourself in a week of beautiful wildlife, English culture, painting, delicious food, great company and ancient history.
Come and spend a very special week of painting wildlife with award-winning artist, Sarah Stokes, in a grand Edwardian house, nestled in the heart of the picturesque Southwest Cotswolds. The Manor House and the adjoining stable block have been painstakingly restored to a very high standard where you will enjoy your own beautifully furnished ensuite room. Set amongst 18 acres of secluded private woodland, you'll relax and paint in authentic surroundings, with delicious meals provided throughout your stay, cooked by our in-house chef.
Sited along the Cotswolds Way National Trail, in the ancient village of Stinchcombe, this retreat is perfectly located for trips out to a nearby award winning wildlife wetland reserve, a historic castle and a host of picturesque towns. Bath, Bristol and London are within easy reach which means that you can easily extend your tour of the UK either side of the retreat. With wildlife on the doorstep to inspire you, delicious home cooked food to fill you and the most beautiful accommodation to paint and relax in, this magical Cotswolds experience will last with you forever. There's a world class golf course next door, ideal if you want to bring a golf-loving, non-partipating artist with you as well as miles of countryside walks on the doorstep!
About the Itinerary
We've created an amazing itinerary packed full of photographic, painting, sight- seeing and dining experiences. Whether you want to watch otters at play or photograph flamingos feeding at an internationally acclaimed wildlife reserve, step inside a 12th century fortress or explore the myriad of antique shops, galleries, restaurants and artisan businesses of the Cotswolds then this retreat ticks every box! Sarah will be there every step of the way to guide you steadily through the process of getting your wildlife visions painted in watercolour.
During this experience you'll be shown how to translate your ideas into stunning pieces of artwork, whether you are painting pollinators, reptiles, birds or larger mammals. Whether you’re an established artist or just beginning your journey, all levels of expertise are welcome.
The proposed 8 day, 7 night itinerary is shown below and all excursions are organised and included. You don’t need any art experience to enjoy this tour.
What you'll paint and what you'll learn
What you’ll paint:
Majestic stags, graceful flamingos, countryside hares, playful otters, and elegant swans - all inspired by the wildlife around us!
What you’ll learn:
• Creating dynamic backgrounds for your wildlife scenes
• Techniques to loosen up your brushwork for expressive strokes
• In-depth colour mixing skills
• Mastering timing and pigment control
• Embracing your playful, creative side
Exclusive use of Stinchcombe Hill House
Exclusive use of Stinchcombe Hill House in the Cotswolds, a beautiful Edwardian Manor
Here, you'll stay in luxurious comfort at the charming Edwardian Manor House and New Stables, set in 18 acres of stunning, unspoilt Cotswold countryside. Unwind in one of the beautifully furnished bedrooms, perfect for recharging after a day of artistic exploration.
Each room is tastefully decorated and spacious, whether you’re sharing with a non-participating partner on a trip to the UK, or enjoying the space to yourself. With hybrid pocket-gel mattresses, Egyptian cotton bedding, and feather pillows, you’ll enjoy restful nights, ready to embrace each new day of inspiration.
Featuring Guest Artist- Andrew Hemming
As a special bonus, Andrew Hemming, one of Olive and Plum’s talented landscape artists will join be joining us to reveal his ever popular techniques for creating loose, expressive landscapes.
Andrew is an award winning photographer and painter based in England whose work has graced the pages of numerous magazines, adorned book covers, and been showcased and sold in exhibitions.
What's included
What’s Included in the Retreat:
-
Art Experience:
- Art classes, individual tuition, and demonstrations with Sarah Stokes.
- Access to a private WhatsApp group with Sarah Stokes and other participants at least six months before the retreat.
-
Exclusive Use of Facilities:
- Full access to Stinchcombe Hill House, including all common areas, workshop spaces, gardens, movie room, steam room and gym.
-
Accommodation:
- 7 nights at Stinchcombe Hill House or New Stables, with daily housekeeping.
- Check-in after 14:00 on 26th September 2025, and checkout by 10:00 on 3rd October 2025.
- Bedrooms include en-suite bathrooms, hair dryers, and toiletries.
- Solo occupancy of your own private ensuite room (or shared with a partner of your choice)
-
Dining & Refreshments:
- All meals provided: freshly prepared breakfasts, home-cooked dinners, and snacks/refreshments throughout the day.
- All meals prepared by a private cook.
- The only meal not included is lunch during the day out in the Cotswolds.
- Complimentary water, coffee, tea, and juice during your stay.
- Alcoholic drinks & soft drinks during evening meal service and at aperitif hour
-
Transportation & Fees:
- Transportation to and from Stinchcombe Hill House from Stroud Train Station at specified times, that you'll be informed of in advance so you can plan your journey.
- All tourist taxes and fees covered.
-
Workshop Equipment:
- Provided: tables, chairs, glass jars, printer with ink, and paper towels.
Additional Information:
- The retreat is limited to 18 art guests, and every effort will be made to accommodate your room choice. If circumstances change, suitable alternative accommodations will be arranged.
- If you have any food allergies or intolerances, please inform us in advance.
- The accommodation has been described to the best of our ability; for any specific concerns (e.g., access, location, or facilities), please enquire before booking.
What's not included
Not Included:
- Airfare
- Travel insurance (mandatory, evidence required before travel)
- ETIAS travel authorisation fees
- Art materials (a detailed list will be provided two months prior by Sarah Stokes)
- Spa treatments
- Staff gratuities
- Personal expenses such as extra drinks, snacks, souvenirs, and any costs before or after the retreat.
- Tour of Peter Scott’s house at Slimbridge.
- Alcoholic drinks outside of evening meals and aperitif hour.
Available Packages
- Extra large Emperor Bed
- En-suite with shower and bath
- Ground Floor room in the Stables
- Disabled Access
- Patio doors
-Pinto (Room Name)
Want to share this room with a partner or friend? You can share this room with a non-participating partner/friend who can join in on everything except the art workshops, or a fully participating partner/friend who can join in on everything (see the option to add them below) Note: there is only one large bed in this room.
- Kingsize Bed En-suite with bath and shower
- Exclusive to one person or a couple or friends happy to share a kingsize bed (please add partner/friend below)
- Ground Floor room in The Stables
- Patio doors
- Disabled Access
- Falabella- Room Name
Want to share this room with a partner or friend? You can share this room with a non-participating partner/friend who can join in on everything except the art workshops, or a fully participating partner/friend who can join in on everything (see the option to add them below) Note: there is only one large bed in this room.
- Super King En-suite with bath and shower
- Exclusive to one person or a couple or friends happy to share a kingsize bed (please add partner/friend below)
- Ground Floor room in The Stables
- Patio doors
- Disabled Access
- Appaloosa Room
Want to share this room with a partner or friend? You can share this room with a non-participating partner/friend who can join in on everything except the art workshops, or a fully participating partner/friend who can join in on everything (see the option to add them below) Note: there is only one large bed in this room.
- Super King Bed with en-suite in the Stables
- Shower and bath
- Exclusive for one person or a couple/friends happy to share a large bed (please add the person below)
- Ground Floor
- Brumby (Room Name)
Want to share this room with a partner or friend? You can share this room with a non-participating partner/friend who can join in on everything except the art workshops, or a fully participating partner/friend who can join in on everything (see the option to add them below) Note: there is only one large bed in this room.
- This beautiful twin room is for a minimum of two friends travelling together that require/prefer two separate beds and the price is based on a minimum of two people sharing.
- This large twin room offers a Superking bed and a separate single day bed, with dividing curtain for privacy (both beds have comfortable mattresses suitable for adults)
- En-suite with shower & bath (up a small set of stairs)
- The price for this room is based on 2 friends sharing the room as a twin (fully participating) and is not a per person price, like the other rooms listed.
- Jenner (Room Name)
- A beautifully decorated bedroom, based in the main house
- Kingsize bed with en-suite (shower)
- Exclusive use for one person or a couple/friends happy to share a large bed (please add your partner/friend below)
- First Floor
- Booth (Room Name)
Want to share this room with a partner or friend? You can share this room with a non-participating partner/friend who can join in on everything except the art workshops, or a fully participating partner/friend who can join in on everything (see the option to add them below) Note: there is only one kingsize bed in this room.
- Beautifully decorated private room within the main house, with sumptuous Superking bed
- En-suite with a shower & bath, plus a dressing room.
- Exclusive use for one person or a couple/ friends that are happy to share an extra large bed. (please add your partner/friend below)
- Located on the Second Floor
Want to share this room with a partner or friend? You can share this room with a non-participating partner/friend who can join in on everything except the art workshops, or a fully participating partner/friend who can join in on everything (see the option to add them below) Note: there is only one large bed in this room.
- A beautifully decorated bedroom in the main house, first floor
- Super King Bed with en-suite(shower, bath & twin sinks)
- Exclusive use for one person or a couple/friends happy to share a large bed (please add your partner/friend below)
- Penderson (Room Name)
Want to share this room with a partner or friend? You can share this room with a non-participating partner/friend who can join in on everything except the art workshops, or a fully participating partner/friend who can join in on everything (see the option to add them below) Note: there is only one large bed in this room.
- The best room in The Stables, this is the Master Suite!
- This large, beautiful bedroom has a comfortable Emperor Bed with en-suite (with shower) in the Stables (just across from the main building)
- The room has a Jacuzzi on the balcony, with rain shower!
- This room is exclusive for either one person or a couple or friends that are happy to share an extra large bed (please add your partner/friend below)
- The only upstairs room in the Stables
- Within The Stables you have access to the lounge area, kitchen and outdoor spaces for relaxing
- Campolina (Room Name)
Want to share this room with a partner or friend? You can share this room with a non-participating partner/friend who can join in on everything except the art workshops, or a fully participating partner/friend who can join in on everything (see the option to add them below) Note: there is only one large bed in this room.
- A beautiful room in the main house, with extra large, emperor bed, with sumptuous bedding for a great night's sleep
- En-suite (shower over bath)
- Exclusive use for one person or a couple/friends happy to share an extra large bed (please add your partner/friend below)
- First Floor
- Budding (Room Name)
Want to share this room with a partner or friend? You can share this room with a non-participating partner/friend who can join in on everything except the art workshops, or a fully participating partner/friend who can join in on everything (see the option to add them below) Note: there is only one large bed in this room.
- Arguably one of the best rooms in the main house- Stay in the superior Master Bedroom with a large Emperor bed & ensuite with twin showers & a separate bath.
- Exclusive use for one person or a couple/ friends happy to share a large bed (please add your partner/friend below)
- Twin sink
- First Floor
- McMurty (Room Name)
Want to share this room with a partner or friend? You can share this room with a non-participating partner/friend who can join in on everything except the art workshops, or a fully participating partner/friend who can join in on everything (see the option to add them below) Note: there is only one large bed in this room.
- Arguably one of the best rooms in the main house, this beautifully decorated room has a large emperor bed and an exquisite gold bath, perfect for relaxing in at the end of the day
- Emperor Bed with en-suite (shower, gold bath & twin sinks)
- Exclusive use for one person or a couple/friends happy to share an extra large bed (please add your partner/friend below)
- Tyndale (Room Name)
Want to share this room with a partner or friend? You can share this room with a non-participating partner/friend who can join in on everything except the art workshops, or a fully participating partner/friend who can join in on everything (see the option to add them below) Note: there is only one large bed in this room.
Available options
• All the meals included
• All excursions included
• Art workshops are not included
- All art workshops included
- All the meals included
- All excursions included
Itinerary
- Arrive at the market town of Stroud where transport will bring you to Stinchcombe House.
- On arrival to your accommodation, you will shown to your comfortable room, with time to settle in.
- Meet Sarah Stokes, then embark on a lovely orientation tour of the gardens, teaching and dining areas of the Manor House. For those guests who like to get a grip on their surroundings there will be the option of an early evening stroll round the extensive grounds and woodlands.
- In the evening, get to know your art group over a freshly prepared evening meal, enhanced by a glass of carefully selected wine.