Arts and Environmental Workshops & Events
Would you like a break in the superb landscape of the Upper Dove Valley and at the same time learn new skills or develop existing ones? If this appeals to you, come on one of our workshops and enjoy the company of like-minded people and learn from enthusiastic and professional tutors. The tuition is based in our new eco-converted Haybarn Studio with excellent facilities and with the benefit of the stunning setting on our farm fronting the river Dove.
We run a whole range of workshops and events here at Dove Valley Centre for children and adults, some in partnership with Staffordshire Wildlife Trust and the Peak District National Park. You can also hire the Centre as self-catering holiday accommodation or the new Haybarn Studio for your own activities.
We have become known for our warm welcome and provide our visitors with refreshments and meals that are organic/Fair-trade and are sourced locally where possible.
We have become known for our warm welcome and we provide our visitors with refreshments that are organic/Fair-trade and are sourced locally where possible.
Tuesday April 27th
Willow Sculptures/Garden Structures with Anthony Hammond
Create your own willow sculptures/ garden obelisks/ panels and let your imagination run in this exciting workshop! Take home your own piece of work and plenty of inspiration to create more stunning pieces.
Wednesday April 28th
Hedgerow Baskets with Rachel Wheatcroft
Learn how to weave a beautiful basket with willow and materials from the hedgerows.
Saturday May 1st
High Wheeldon, High Tea
A splendid walk from Dove Valley Centre to High Wheeldon and back for high tea. Led by National Trust rangers. Details & booking, Matlock Tourist Information. Tel 01629 583388. Cost £7p.p.
Tuesday May 25th & Wednesday May 26th
Water Colour Painting with Tony Beresford
Respond to the landscape of the spectacular Upper Dove Valley and learn more about colour and composition.
Saturday June 5th
Biodiversity Day -Free and open to all
(The Big Bird, Bug, Beast and Botany Hunt)
Bring the family and discover the wild plants and creatures on the farm: in the hay meadows, pastures, woodland, ponds and river with the help of naturalists from Staffs Wildlife Trust. Bring a picnic. Details: Staffordshire Wildlife Trust.
Tel Martin on 01889 880100
Saturday June 12th
Pen, Ink and Wash with Tony Beresford
Develop your drawing skills and catch the colours of the valley at the height of summer. Use the old farm buildings as well as the cows and sheep as inspiration.
Sunday June 13th
Photography with Doreen and David Graham
Getting the most from your Digital Camera
Learn what your camera will do and how the different functions can help your photography.
Sunday June 27th
Photography with Dave and Doreen Graham
Getting Close up with Nature.
Develop your skills in photographing the beauty of nature including wild flowers, bugs, beetles & more.
Wed July 14th and Thursday July 15th
Landscape Painting Oils/ Mixed Media with Tony Beresford.
Paint the landscape, exploring texture, colour and light using different media.
Tues September 21st & Wed 22nd
Water Colour Painting with Tony Beresford
Develop your skills in mixing and using colour in response to autumn in the valley.
Sunday October 17th
Apple Day - Free and open to all
Back by popular request - come with the family for a day of apple-related fun. Bring your apple recipes to share and taste and try all things appley. Bring your unknown apple varieties for our expert to identify and find out more about growing local varieties. Details: Staffordshire Wildlife Trust.
Tel Martin on 01889 880100
Sunday October 19th
Still Life with Tony Beresford
Choose whatever media appeals to paint a still life reflecting the season with a focus on composition.
Sunday December 6th
Christmas Decorations with Willow
Get in the mood for Christmas and join Rachel Wheatcroft making your own decorations from willow. Try stars, wreathes and much more !
How much does it cost?
Individuals and groups are welcome. You can book to be resident - the course fee includes accommodation and all meals- or if non-resident, it includes refreshments and lunch during the day.
Two-day, one night residential course –
£155 sharing a twin room or:
£165 for single occupancy.
Non-resident - £ 55 per day for tuition and materials for willow courses.
Ask if you would like additional accommodation.
To check availability please email us or ring Elspeth on 01298 83282
