Classes and workshops Archives

Dartington Hall, a stunning Grade I listed heritage property set within a 1,200-acre estate near the ancient market town of Totnes. 50 distinctive bedrooms located around a medieval 14th-century courtyard offer a superb mix of heritage and comfort where you can remove yourself from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Experience a sense of tranquillity at our impressive Grade II* listed gardens, which have been shaped and inspired by the remarkable custodians of this special place for over 1,000 years. On your visit to the 26 acres of tended grounds, you’ll find a range of stunning features with beautiful vistas and creative sculptures, including ancient trees and impressive plant species, fabulous walks and a newly restored 700-year-old deer park. Don’t miss our weekly gardens tours, every Wednesday, at 11am-12 noon from the Visitor Centre or a guided tour of our newly restored 700-year-old deer park; every Friday, 11am-12 noon. Tours run from March to mid-October. We have all kinds of craft courses too, covering everything from beekeeping, printmaking to artisan baking. Meanwhile, Dartington Live moves into its second season this autumn, with a host of exciting, original live art events– watch out for this year’s family-friendly Christmas show, which was a great hit last year. There is a wide film programme including independent, world and mainstream cinema, seven days a week at the 14th-century Barn cinema located within the grounds. Kids Trail Families can enjoy our all-new children’s nature trail within the gardens, with inspired nature activities including bug hotels, den building and more. Our gorgeous new trail map is included in your ticket price – make sure you pick one up on arrival! Food and Drink at Dartington With a range of options to suit all tastes and appetites and an emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The White Hart restaurant offers a delicious seasonal menu with a fine selection of local ales and wines. Check their website for current opening times. The Green Table Café is open Mon-Sun, 9am-4pm, Breakfast: 10am-12 noon, Lunch: 12 noon-4pm The Barn Cinema Cafe - A beautiful space where you can enjoy alcoholic & non-alcholic tipples, hot popcorn, pick ‘n’ mix and more. Open Mon -Thurs: 4-8pm, Fri-Sun 12-8pm

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01 Sharpham Estate view Visit Totnes pix April 2022 770 x 500

The Sharpham Trust

An internationally-renowned centre for mindfulness sits on the edge of Totnes, on the beautiful Sharpham Estate. There are several retreat venues on the Estate, where participants stay and learn mindful meditation techniques amid breathtaking natural scenery. Grade I-listed Sharpham House is a Palladian villa high on the banks of the River Dart, at the centre of the Estate, and it hosts retreats all-year-round. Visitors can also stay in Sharpham’s Woodland Campsite, meditating close to nature, or within our Coach House nature-retreat venue, or at the acclaimed Barn Retreat Centre, or even on solo retreat in our off-grid Kuti. Sharpham’s retreats have featured in national and international media. The whole Estate is certified organic, run using sustainable and organic practices and is within the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It is home to rich flora and fauna – including the endangered Cirl Bunting - and parts of the land are being rewilded. The Estate is also home to the award-winning Sharpham Cheese and the beautiful hideaway holiday let, The Bathing House. Sharpham House is only open to the public on certain days (see our events listing here). You can walk or ride to Sharpham from Totnes, taking the National Cycle Route 28 towards Ashprington. The Sharpham Trust, a registered charity administering the Estate, also operates Sharpham Meadow Natural Burial Ground. You can get married in Sharpham House too, as various rooms and spaces are licensed for weddings. The Sharpham Trust is LGBTQ+ friendly. The Trust also runs a riverside campsite at Point Field which is best accessed via canoe. If you’re interested in volunteering weekly on the Sharpham Estate, read more here or email [email protected] We have been awarded the Visit England Good to Go Industry Standard Certificate. Google map for The Sharpham Trust: https://goo.gl/maps/qdAee8PQEFo Google map for Sharpham Meadow Natural Burial Ground: https://goo.gl/maps/SNCpumtuHjr

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Steve Robinson Glass

Steve Robinson is an award-winning glass artist, specialising in kiln-forming to create his unique tactile and colourful work. Everything is made by hand at his studio in Totnes by the River Dart, where he produces stunning glass wall features, statement splashbacks, windows, bowls, sculpture as well as smaller ornamental pieces. Steve also runs regular workshops throughout the year which are suitable for all abilities and can be booked on his website. The studio is open to visitors. There is a small display area with finished work to view, and Steve also welcomes bespoke commissions. It is possible to call in on-spec but please check current opening times before making a special visit. An appointment is recommended if you would like to be sure of Steve’s availability to discuss a commission.

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China Blue

We are a one-of-a-kind destination store for those seeking a unique, curated mix of shopping, creativity and eating!

Step into our lifestyle and discover the beauty of artisan homeware, timeless décor and on trend accessories. With a growing range of Eco-friendly and locally sourced products!

Visit our Ceramic Studio to switch off, relax and get lost in your own creative world whilst painting or making your very own pot! It’s now easier than ever to book and get creative using our online booking system.

If you need pampering, book a treatment in ‘The Hair Salon’ at China Blue before chilling out in our café, Wild Thyme Deli & Kitchen, to enjoy a delicious, locally sourced brunch or homemade cake, accompanied by one of our artisan coffees!

We run regular events, keep an eye on our social media and booking site to see what’s coming up!

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English in Totnes

As a family owned boutique language school, we pride ourselves on ensuring our students enjoy the very best of English tuition, fun activities and caring host families as a part of a memorable and lasting experience in a beautiful and unique part of England. Come and join us in the iconic Gatehouse building at the very heart of magical Totnes.

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Move Forward

Wellness Studio A learning space as well as a movement space.

www.moveforwardwellness.co.uk

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Short course at Dartington Trust

We offer a variety of opportunities for part-time learning, with courses ranging from a few hours to weekly classes, to longer residential experiences. Schumacher College delivers a unique brand of small-group, residential experiences which embrace themes of ecology, wellbeing, and sustainability. Our new programme of arts courses spans music, performance, writing, dance, and contemporary visual art. And a wide, exciting range of craft courses run year-round in collaboration with over 50 makers from across the south west and beyond.