Enjoy a weekend of wonderful watercolour with artist Nicola Watters. Create your own beautiful artwork to keep for yourself or gift to a loved one at Christmas.

Under the guidance of Nicola you will work step by step to create artworks which could be given as Christmas gifts.

Taking seasonal flora and fauna as our inspiration we will create several pieces of artwork including greetings cards. All art materials will be provided and all levels of ability are very welcome on this peaceful yet stimulating creative weekend.

Included in the Weekend

A welcome supper on the Friday night, hosted by Nicola. Menu >>

Art workshop Saturday 10am - 4pm and Sunday 10am - 1pm

Buffet lunch on the Saturday

All art materials

Refreshments through the day

£200 per guest

Enhance Your Experience with a Stay

If you would like to stay in one of our gorgeous bedrooms, you will also be able to enjoy our stunning spa. Accommodation as available to guests attending the Painting weekend with a 20% discount. Browse our rooms here, and please book by contacting us directly. Your supper on the Friday and lunch on Saturday is included. 

About Nicola Watters

To find out more about your guide for the weekend please visit www.nicolawatters.com

Booking

Please call our reservations team to book both the painting weekend and your discounted accommodation - 01635 800520. 

In celebration of Global Champagne Day, join us for a delectable evening exploring the wines of the Bollinger portfolio. One of the nations best-loved Champagnes (being named after an Englishman, after all)  we’ll enjoy 4 specially designed courses paired with an exquisite range of sparkling wines. We’ll touch on the of history of the house, the rise and fall of fortunes, and the enduring legacy of Madame Bollinger - the original First Lady of wine.

Set four-course menu with paired wines.

£90 | £80 for our members, including wines.

View the menu >>

Vegan option available on request

Over 40 luxury stalls with quirky brands, local artisans, unique gifts, innovative fashion, homewares, festive food, local art & more…

Preview Evening : Tuesday 21st November

Stallholders include...

At Last

Bricks & Stitches

Multitude

Cotton and Gems

Foreman and Dring

Shibori

Sarah K Designs

Roxtons

Oak and Soap

Antra Designs

Purley Bespoke

Gastro Nicks

Astique London

Jenny Hopps Pottery

Emma Mousley Art

Southern Wines

Hunts Silverware

Moola London

Forage Somerset

Little Smartie Pants

Millie Pink

LivvyB

Club Matters

The Skargard Company

In support of Maggies

Kindly sponsored by Knight Frank

Get into the Christmas spirit and join florist Sarah Styles at The Retreat, for our Great Christmas Wreath Making Workshop.

With Sarah's expert tuition you will create a stunning festive wreath. A warming 2-course lunch follows, with a Christmas set from the amazing Newbury Rock Choir.

Don't miss this unique festive social event, perfect for getting together with friends or taking some time out for yourself.

£80

In support of Maggies

With Game Season upon us, we celebrate the return to all things autumnal. Using the finest local game suppliers, this specially curated menu promises to be both decadent and comforting.

Think Barolo and Burgundy, wild mushrooms and venison… A truly gastronomic evening, hosted by our King of Wines Steffan James from Lay & Wheeler.

Set three-course menu with paired wines, plus welcome drink.

Menu >>

£75pp including wines | £65 for members

For the ultimate Christmas party, The Retreat's black-tie Christmas Ball is the place to be, with a welcome drink, a 3-course festive supper, live music and more.

Menu >>

£100 | £90 for our members

Arrive: 7.00-7.30pm

Dinner: 8.00pm prompt

Bar: 7.00pm-midnight

Entertainment until midnight

Why not make a night of it and stay with us?

Saturday 9th December

Perfect for smaller office parties or festive get-togethers with friends or family, join one of our big party nights for fabulous food and drink and dancing the night away in stunning surroundings.

£79 per person to include an arrival drink, 3-course festive meal and a top DJ providing the tunes for a party to remember. View the menu >>

A special room rate is available to anyone attending our Big Party Nights, starting at £150 (room only).

Thursday 7th & Thursday 14th December

Member's Price £70

Celebrate the arrival of 2024 at The Retreat, with roaring fires, fabulous food and drink, cosy rooms and an unforgettable evening of entertainment, in the gorgeous setting of the North Wessex Downs.

Your two-night stay will include an indulgent New Year's Eve dinner, and the superb local band The Lateshift - live band everything you need to start the new year in style.

Two Night Stays from £700 (including the party)

Evening Only Tickets £160 | £150 for our members