The grand country house opens its gates to those who want to learn in its spectactular grounds. Words by Jenny Leigh
If you are a budding Monet, Attenborough or Bailey, Tatton Park has a course or workshop for you.
From lectures, talks and tours to practical sessions in getting the most from your camera or the skill of the longbow - there are now over 80 adult and family learning activities lined up at Tatton for this year.
The diversity of the historic estate in Knutsford provides inspiration for these events. Many are centred on the 2,000-acre parkland. There is the opportunity to develop new skills including growing vegetables, pig keeping and poultry rearing courses. The knowledgeable farm staff will share their skills in grooming the farm’s heavy horses and keeping sheep.
Mansion talks and tours give an insight into the way Christmas was celebrated in Victorian homes (both upstairs and down) and invite attendees to explore the etiquette of country house dining.
Seven courses have been inspired by Beatrix Potter and The Magic of Beatrix Potter, runs from March 23rd to September 1st. Potter’s tales inspire a children’s bakery session in the mansion and storytelling and vegetable picking in the gardens. Other Potter workshops include dance, drama and song for children, Victorian cottage crafts and a watercolour workshop.
Tatton’s Vicky Stubbs said: ‘We have a fantastic programme of workshops and courses for 2013 – there really is something for everyone. Tatton’s richness and diversity provides a wonderful resource for learning new skills, trying out something different and inspiring creativity.’
Other new activities this year include children’s Survival Skills, Myth andMagic and Defence of the Realm at the Old Hall and a performing arts course for children.
For full information about Tatton’s programme of learning activities visit www.tattonpark.org.uk or call the education department on 01625 374428
