• THE AXE FACTOR: EXPLORING NEOLITHIC STONE AXE PRODUCTION, EXCHANGE AND COMMUNICATION

    Higham Hall College Bassenthwaite Lake, Cockermouth, Cumbria, United Kingdom

    Six thousand years ago, the Central Lake District was the focus of an intensive production process with a wide distribution network. A very particular type of stone, which outcropped around the highest fells, was much sought after by Neolithic communities. They quarried, shaped, and polished it to create valuable axe-heads that were traded throughout Britain […]

  • EARLY MUSIC SUMMER SCHOOL 2026

    Higham Hall College Bassenthwaite Lake, Cockermouth, Cumbria, United Kingdom

    For competent singers, viol and recorder players, covering music c1450-c1650.  Instruction in choral/solo singing, viol and recorder playing, lute, plus vocal technique and various consorts. Plenary music-making sessions, lectures and opportunities to try something new (instrument or voice). A marvellously rich musical cocktail! Deborah Catterall (Head Tutor, Vocal), Elizabeth Dodd (Viol, Renaissance Dance), Philip Gruar […]

  • CYANOTYPES

    Higham Hall College Bassenthwaite Lake, Cockermouth, Cumbria, United Kingdom

    Spend a day discovering the historical printing process of Cyanotype; making beautiful “blueprints” from natural forms, found objects and hand drawn transparencies. You will learn about the history of the process, how to mix the solution to coat a variety of surfaces, prepare and print a large selection of paper to use as greetings cards […]

  • LATE STARTERS’ MINI-ORCHESTRA FOR WOODWIND & STRINGS (C INSTRUMENTS)

    Higham Hall College Bassenthwaite Lake, Cockermouth, Cumbria, United Kingdom

    Enjoy making music with others in our late-starters mini-orchestra, for instruments in the key of C (i.e. flute, oboe, bassoon and bowed strings - sorry, no clarinets or saxophones). Music will be arrangements of light classical and traditional pieces, with relatively straightforward parts in terms of key and note range.  The weekend is aimed primarily […]

  • IN FULL COLOUR

    Higham Hall College Bassenthwaite Lake, Cockermouth, Cumbria, United Kingdom

    A joyous colourful summer course exploring aspects of working with colour. With inspiration from great colourists, the course includes demos, presentations and fun exercises exploring colour ‘theory’ alongside work on your own project. There will be studio work and if weather permits, opportunities to work outside in the beautiful grounds at Higham Hall.

  • GARDENING FOR WILDLIFE

    Higham Hall College Bassenthwaite Lake, Cockermouth, Cumbria, United Kingdom

    On this new course learn how to make your garden a haven for wildlife, from the smallest courtyard to larger plots. Join local horticulturalist Louise to help you garden for wildlife and ensure you create a functional, attractive space which is also beneficial to wildlife. Discover which plants to use to provide food sources and […]

  • ACOUSTIC GUITAR

    Higham Hall College Bassenthwaite Lake, Cockermouth, Cumbria, United Kingdom

    The course welcomes beginner and developing players. We will be looking at basic aspects such as posture, tuning, hand positions. We will be looking at learning and practice strategies around building your chord vocabulary, how to learn a song, how to learn a tune, left and right hand techniques, elements of different genres, strumming and […]

  • PORTFOLIO DEVELOPMENT

    Higham Hall College Bassenthwaite Lake, Cockermouth, Cumbria, United Kingdom

    A hands-on practical course for anyone applying to study art at university or college (Further or Higher Education). We will build on your existing work to boost your portfolio – expanding your knowledge of processes and approaches to making art and building confidence in talking about your work and ideas. Expect a fun, experimental, high-energy […]

  • WOODCARVING: CREATIVE RELIEF CARVING

    Higham Hall College Bassenthwaite Lake, Cockermouth, Cumbria, United Kingdom

    Relief carving is the process of cutting a pattern or design into a flat surface. For those new to the craft, Sharon will gently guide you through the process of transforming a block of wood into a unique image in relief with generous one-to-one support, technical instruction and extensive knowledge of her subject. Bring your own visual sources […]

  • ITALIAN LANGUAGE AND CULTURE IMMERSION RETREAT

    Higham Hall College Bassenthwaite Lake, Cockermouth, Cumbria, United Kingdom

    Do you love Italy? Are you looking to improve your Italian conversation and immerse yourself in Italian culture? Join Antonella in her 2025 retreat at Higham Hall. The retreat will balance structured group activities with plenty of free time to explore Italian film, literature and music. You will be encouraged and supported to build confidence […]