Devon, UK
Retreat Schedule
DAY 1
Welcome to the retreat!
Today, we begin with a warm welcome as we settle in and get acquainted. We’ll start in the stunning Cathedral room with a brief toast of champagne to the days ahead, followed by the presentation of your exclusive gift bags and a gourmet evening meal at 6.00pm.
It is important to plan your arrival at Exeter Airport before 3 pm so you can make the most of the retreat and not miss out on any of the excitement!
You will be picked up from Exeter Airport in a private shuttle bus at 3 PM, and the journey to the Bovey Castle will take approximately one hour.
DAY 2
Experience the magic of an early morning swim in one of the hotel pools or a leisurely walk around the stunning grounds of Bovey Castle.
Then, we start our day with a delicious à la carte breakfast and additional buffet.
After breakfast, the knitters among us will join Marie Wallin for a Talk and Presentation of her designs.
Following the Presentation, we’ll take a break to enjoy a leisurely lunch.
In the afternoon, the knitters will come together for our first workshop with Marie Wallin details here.
In the evening, we’ll gather for an extra special gourmet dinner. After dinner, we’ll have an informal knit & chat and some ‘get to know you games’.
DAY 3
After breakfast, the knitters will come together for the second knitting workshop lead by Marie Wallin. More details here.
Following a delicious lunch, we’ll be joined by Helena & Sonja the creative duo behind John Arbon Textiles. They’ll share how they work with the local wool board and collaborate with designers, including Fruity Knitting, to create yarns made from dream fibre blends and stunning colour recipes. Non-Knitting partners are also welcome to join in this lecture.
Finally, we’ll gather back at the Castle for a delicious gourmet dinner, then unwind with an evening of knitting and good conversation to end the day on a cheerful note.
DAY 4
After an early breakfast, we’ll hop on a private coach for a fun day out! We’ll divide into two smaller groups to enjoy the experiences in turn:
One group will head to John Arbon Textiles for a behind-the-scenes mill tour, with time to browse their irresistible yarns.
The other will visit Nectar Gardens, a family-run honey farm, for a Honey Factory Tour & Tasting and a fascinating beekeeping demonstration.
We’ll reunite for an English High Tea at the Nectar Restaurant at Quince Honey Farm and then swap activities for the afternoon. Afterward, we’ll return to Bovey Castle for a gourmet dinner and a well-earned rest.
DAY 5
We’ll begin with a leisurely breakfast after a morning walk or indoor swim. Next up a workshop with Andrea on some of her favourite knitting tips and tricks (yet to be decided but bound to be fun).
After a delicious lunch, we’ll enjoy a private three-hour falconry adventure, meeting owls, falcons, hawks, and eagles and learning how they live, hunt, and connect with humans. You’ll even fly them yourself! From gentle Barn Owls to mighty sea eagles, this is a rare, unforgettable chance to experience these incredible birds up close.
In the evening, we’ll come together for our final, 3-course gourmet dinner, raising a toast to the memories we’ve made, the knitting skills we’ve gained, and the friendships we’ve formed!
DAY 6
Today is the day we say our goodbyes.
Today is the day we say our goodbyes.
After breakfast, you will be driven to Exeter Airport with beautiful memories and fun stories to cherish and share!
The shuttle bus will depart at 10 am and will take approximately 1 hour to reach Exeter airport.
Gift bag
Each knitter will receive an exclusive gift bag. The contents will include:
- A Marie Wallin pattern and her British Breeds yarn to knit it!
- Other surprise goodies!
Getting there and back
You will be picked up from Exeter Airport, in a private shuttle bus at 3 PM. Participants will be informed in advance via email of the exact meeting point and pick up time.
It is important to plan your arrival at the airport before 3pm to ensure your transportation to Bovey Castle. If your flight arrives in the afternoon or evening, we recommend arriving on the previous day and staying over-night at one of the local airport hotels. This means you can make the most of the retreat and not miss out on any of the excitement!
For example, the Hampton by Hilton Exeter Airport is located right next to Exeter Airport.
On day 6, our shuttle bus will take you back to Exeter Airport at 10am, directly after breakfast.
*Please note that if you decide to arrive early at Bovey Castle or extend your stay after the retreat, the retreat no longer covers the pick-up and drop-off service to and from Exeter Airport. In this case, you would need to make your own private arrangements.