FAQs
What does a typical weekend course look like?
For our weekend courses then we would ask that you arrive after around 4pm on the Friday. The lessons themselves will run from 9.30/10am until 4pm on the Saturday and Sunday. Departure is after lessons end on the Sunday.
After your arrival take time to settle into your room and perhaps take a stroll around the meadows to stretch your legs. Then from 6pm enjoy a pre dinner drink and canapés out on the terrace and meet your fellow artists.
Dinner will be served around 7pm. After dinner you can relax out on the terrace, taking in the sunset or in the drawing room with the log fire to keep you warm and cosy.
Breakfast is from 8.30am, though there is a smaller breakfast bar should you like to make yourself an early morning tea or coffee to enjoy in your room, taking in the wonderful views and readying yourself for the day.
Lunch will be served each day between 12.30 and 1.00.
What Covid 19 precautions are in place?
We want to ensure everyone feels safe, both guests and artist tutors and ask that everyone visiting the retreat for a stay is fully vaccinated and can present their NHS app or document as proof. If you have tested positive for COVID within the 10 days before your course then please ring us.
What if the course is cancelled or I can’t make it?
We ask for a 20% deposit to be paid at the time of booking a room and course. It is non refundable and non transferable unless we are cancelling the course. The balance for the remaining fees due are required 4 weeks before your course starts. They are also non refundable and non transferable unless we cancel the course. It’s always a good idea to take out adequate holiday insurance at the time of booking to cover you should you be unable to attend. Please see our terms for more details
How do I know if a course is still available?
If a course is full then we will mark it Course Full. Each course can take up to 8 people, with between 6 and 8 the usual class number.
Do I have to share a room with others on the course?
You only share a bedroom if you have specifically booked to share with someone, either as an artist or non artist. There are twin beds in the Blue Room. There is a large family bathroom, with all amenities, for the Rose Room, Green Room and Blue Room. The Ivory Room has an en suite bathroom.
Are all dietary requirements catered for?
Absolutely, just let us know when you’re booking your course and room. Our chef can accommodate any requirements with at least 1 weeks notice.
Do I have to be an experienced artist?
Absolutely not. All our tutors welcome artists of all levels, including beginners as well as more experienced artists. We think it’s great to have a good mix of abilities.
Who will be hosting?
The Blackdowns Artist Retreat at Grants Farm is owned and run by Sarah and David Henderson and at least one of them will be around to host you and make you feel very welcome and comfortable.
Is it possible to bring a dog?
We regret that it is not possible to bring your dog on a weekend course.
If you have any further questions we’d be delighted to help at info@blackdownsart.com or 07968 8822292