The Spinning Barn Summer Retreat 2026

A Traditional Hand Spinning Craft Retreat

20th - 24th July 2026

Step into five unhurried days of traditional spinning, creativity, and connection at The Spinning Barn Summer Retreat 2026.

Held in the peaceful heart of the Norfolk Broads, this all-inclusive traditional craft retreat is designed for those who long for time, space, and depth in their making. Set within the beautiful grounds of How Hill Trust, the retreat offers the rare opportunity to fully immerse yourself in hand spinning wool, away from everyday demands and distractions.

This retreat invites you to slow down and reconnect with the craft in a meaningful way.

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Retreat Overview

Date: 20th–24th July 2026
Location: How Hill Trust, Ludham, Norfolk
Arrival: Monday from 4:00pm
Departure: Friday at 2:00pm

This retreat celebrates spinning wool as a traditional craft rooted in heritage, skill, and quiet satisfaction. Over five days, we will explore Britain’s rare breed sheep, learning how each fleece behaves from preparation through to finished yarn.

With exclusive use of the house and grounds, the retreat provides a calm, supportive environment where your only focus is fibre, process, and enjoyment.

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What to Expect at This Traditional Craft Retreat

Quiet Craft & Gentle Rhythm

Experience the deep calm that comes from working with your hands. Traditional spinning naturally encourages focus, patience, and presence, allowing your mind to settle as your yarn grows. This retreat offers the space to slow down, work at your own pace, and enjoy the simple rhythm of fibre and wheel.

Skill-Led Creative Sessions

Each day includes guided spinning sessions focused on traditional techniques, rare breed fibres, and thoughtful yarn design. You’ll learn, experiment, and refine your skills — or simply spin and enjoy the process — supported by gentle instruction and shared curiosity.

A Supportive Craft Community

Whether you’re new to spinning or have years of experience, you’ll be welcomed into a warm, supportive group of like-minded makers. This is a place to ask questions, share ideas, and enjoy conversation without judgement or pressure.

Celebrating Traditional Craft

Throughout the retreat, we’ll celebrate British wool and heritage spinning through shared learning and making. You’ll have opportunities to reflect on your work, admire others’ projects, and deepen your appreciation for traditional craft in a relaxed, encouraging environment.

Fibre & Equipment to Explore

You’ll have the chance to browse and purchase a carefully curated selection of fibres, yarns, and spinning equipment. Whether you’re stocking up on essentials or discovering something new, everything is chosen to complement traditional spinning practices.

What’s Included

Residential Guests (All-Inclusive)

En-suite accommodation (shared or limited single rooms)
Breakfast and lunch (Tuesday–Friday)
Four home-cooked evening meals (Monday–Thursday)
Refreshments available throughout each day

Day Guests

Daily refreshments
Lunch each day

For All Guests

All wool and materials supplied
Use of equipment where needed
Daily tuition in traditional spinning techniques
Expert talks and demonstrations
Ongoing guidance, encouragement, and support
A warm, welcoming community of like-minded makers

A full “What to Bring” list will be provided closer to the retreat date.

Booking Information

Residential retreat: from £795
Day guests: £355
Deposit: £100 per person (non-refundable)
Full balance due: 20th May 2026

Single rooms are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.

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A Traditional Craft Retreat Designed for Spinners

This is not a busy or over-structured programme. I’ve intentionally designed this as a traditional craft retreat that respects both learning and rest.

You’ll have time to:

Spin quietly indoors or outdoors
Explore the gardens and surrounding waterways
Sit with your fibre and follow your curiosity
Share conversation and inspiration with fellow spinners

The gentle rhythm of the days allows traditional spinning to unfold naturally, without pressure or rush.

What You’ll Learn

Throughout the retreat, we’ll focus on at least three British rare breed wools, discovering what makes each one distinctive and rewarding for hand spinners.

You’ll learn:

How to prepare raw fleece using a range of traditional techniques
How fibre characteristics influence drafting, twist, and yarn structure
How to spin intentionally for the yarn you want to create
How different approaches to hand spinning wool affect the final result

We’ll follow the full journey from fleece to finished yarn, deepening your confidence and understanding of spinning wool.

From Fleece to Finished Project

To complete the experience, we’ll spend time knitting or crocheting with your own handspun yarn. This fleece-to-project approach helps you truly understand each wool from start to finish, guided by expert support throughout.

Whether you’re newer to spinning or an experienced spinner wanting to refine your skills, this process brings clarity, confidence, and immense satisfaction.

Expert Talks & Rare Breed Focus

You’ll hear from knowledgeable and passionate experts working with Britain’s rare and native sheep breeds. Their insights into conservation, breed characteristics, and fibre use add depth and context to your spinning practice.

You’ll also have the chance to handle and purchase a beautiful selection of rare breed fibres and yarns to continue your exploration at home.

Why I Chose How Hill

I first discovered How Hill while teaching at another retreat and immediately felt its calm, grounding atmosphere. It’s a place where creativity feels natural and time slows without effort.

Surrounded by sweeping gardens and quiet waterways, it’s an ideal setting for a traditional craft retreat devoted to spinning, learning, and rest.

Join Us!

Step away from the rush of everyday life and spend time immersed in traditional spinning, wool, and shared making at The Spinning Barn Summer Retreat.

This traditional craft retreat offers the space to slow down, learn, and enjoy the simple satisfaction of working with your hands alongside a warm, like-minded community.

If you’d like to ask a question before booking, you’re very welcome to get in touch at
info@thespinningbarn.co.uk or via the contact form.