Compton Verney by John Cleary

Shipston Proms

The Maker's Space

Whichford Pottery

 

 

 

 

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Calling all craft enthusiasts and creative souls! From exquisite art collections to engaging workshops and captivating performances on stage, this itinerary is designed to ignite your artistic imagination.

Start your day at a traditional English tearoom set in the heart of Shipston. With a wide range of home baked cakes, Mrs Brown’s Tea Rooms will set you up for a day of surrounding yourself in inspiring creativity.

The first stop of our day of arts and crafts is to experience the unique delights of a traditional working pottery at Whichford Pottery. Immerse yourself in the timeless craft of pottery at their working studio nestled in the heart of Warwickshire. Browse the array of handmade terracotta planters and British goods and enjoy a wander through the courtyard.

Next stop is to Compton Art Gallery at Compton Verney. Spend time admiring the largest collection of British folk art in the country or delve into the beauty and craftsmanship of ancient Chinese bronzes, considered one of the top three such collections in Europe. Appreciate masterpieces of Northern European medieval and Renaissance art, or encounter British portraits featuring royalty like Henry VIII and Elizabeth I. Whether your taste leans toward historical treasures or captivating folk traditions, Compton Verney promises a journey of discovery for every art enthusiast.

Your next part of the day depends on whether you’d like to view art or create art.

If you’d like to see another world-renowned art collection, head over to the National Trust’s Upton House and have a spot of lunch in the Pavilion Café. Once the 1930’s country retreat of Lord and Lady Bearsted, you can now visit the house to admire the collections of paintings, tapestries, oriental works art and porcelain that are on display.

If you’d rather spend the afternoon being creative, then see the array of workshops hosted by The Flower House at their studio at Ditchford Farm, Shipston. Spend a few enjoyable hours weaving baskets out of willow, flower arranging or making wreaths. Take note, that this is right next door to North Cotswold Brewery where you can pick up some locally brewed ales.

Alternatively, head towards Alcester to The Makers’ Space , a vibrant craft community with art and craft studios and sewing classes. Take a look at their website to see which mindful crafts are on offer.

For your evening meal, you’re spoilt for choice, but we suggest we select your evening arts entertainment so that you can dine out nearby your evening activity.

If you’re in Shipston-on-Stour in the summer during the Shipston Proms, we highly recommend staying in the heart of the town. The Proms are organised by a small independent group of volunteers whose aim is to provide two weeks of unforgettable musical talent, showcasing local performers across venues in the town. The climax of the two-week festival is a spectacular ‘Last Night of the Proms’ event in the High Street, which features a range of artists including the winners of the Shipston ‘Fame’ contest.

Of course, Stratford-upon-Avon is just a short journey away. Home to the Royal Shakespeare theatre, spend an evening immersing yourself at one the RSC’s theatres where you’ll enjoy outstanding production of works of Shakespeare, his contemporaries and new playwrights.