Frequently Asked Questions

I would like to come onto your retreat but can I bring my partner to stay and do their own thing?
You can absolutely bring a partner, we have many people that do. To be able to do this you need to book the right room for you. Make sure you book a twin or double room. If you are not sure about the rooms, please pop onto the accommodation page and each room will be detailed so you know which will be the best choice for you. If you are sharing with a friend definitely look for the twin rooms as the doubles can be a little cozy for friends sharing. The students food will be included in the price but your partner will have to pay for his/her food separately directly to the Board when checking out.

Can I bring a dog with me?
You are welcome to bring a dog to stay with you in the accommodation however I do not allow dogs into the venue. My family is very allergic and they will be on site at various times and it would be against health and safety in general. If you want to bring a dog you must have someone with you that will be looking after the dog whilst you are being taught. But it's ideal for couples traveling with their pets. The Board Inn are very accomodating.

How big are the classes?
I am working on a maximum class size of ten but aim for eight on a retreat. What makes these weekends special is the small class size. I want to be able to give each of you lots of attention and knowledge and help you all millions. Also I find people bond more as a smaller group and make lovely friendships while they are here and afterwards keep in touch.

Can I get to you by train?
You can. There is a small train station right next to the venue. It is a long journey but it can be done. The quickest way to travel is always by car if you are lucky enough to have one.

Whats's included?
Everything you need to make a lampshade or any other embroidery project you fancy. The materials, the accommodation, all your food, tea and soft drinks throughout the day, you only need to bring yourself. The only thing I don't cover are the drinks at the Board, there will be wine, tea, coffee and soft drinks available to drink in the venue.

What do we make?
The weekend is set up for making 20cm drum lampshades, but this doesn't mean you have to stick to that. If you want to bring your own clothes to embellish that would be great or if you fancy making a picture to hang instead that is also fab. This is your weekend to make use of however you want and I am there to help and advise you.

Do I need to bring anything with me?
You can bring fabrics and anything you might like to include in your work to add a touch of your own personality if you fancy, but you don't need to.

You could have a think about the sort of thing you'd like to make before coming but if you have any ideas you want to discuss do email me I am happy to guide you. Just come open minded and excited and you'll be grand.

Can I come and share a room with a friend?
Yes you certainly can! If you and a friend want to come and be students then that will be fantastic. You will save money by sharing a room too! Just look for the twin room and sharing option.

Do I get food included?
You do! All food is included in the price, both breakfast lunch and supper. Drinks when staying at the Board Inn are not included though but they can be adding to a bar tab which you can pay on checking out and are extremely competitively priced. We are in Yorkshire after all.

I have mobility issues can I still come?
Of course please do! There is a ramp into the venue with parking available outside the venue. There is also a Blue Badge spot outside the Board Inn. They have one disabled friendly room by the courtyard, but any of the cottage rooms are free of stairs. The bedrooms inside the Board are up a steep staircase with firedogs so will be a lot trickier to manoeuvre around. Assistance is available from Karen and Alistair at the Board though if needed. Access to the dinning room is without any stairs so no problems there.

I have a special diet will I still be able to eat with everyone?
Vegans, Gluten free, vegetarians, dairy free.... we can cater to you all. Please just give me advance notice so I can make sure I get everything you need in. The Board offer a fab service, everything is made to order so as long as you give us a heads up everything will be peachy.

Why do you have to do your retreats so far away?
I know, I know they are in the deepest darkest depths of Yorkshire up near Whitby on the North East Coast but this is my childhood home and one of the most beautiful places n the planet. By coming on a retreat with me you are experiencing what makes me tick. Why I started my work, seeing the landscape I'm inspired by and experiencing it. It is extremely important to me, the landscape and the serenity that the village and valley bring you is worth the travel. It really is a gem that you'll never quite forget. And while you're up here why not stay a few extra days and explore Whitby and York.

Can I extend my stay?
Of course you can. Lots of people travel across the country to come to the retreats so need to stay a bit longer. You can even make your weekend into a longer stay and more of a holiday. Karen at The Board Inn will help you in anyway she can to make this happen, just get in touch.