Welcome to Cowshed Art Holidays

The Cowshed is home to Vivienne and David Burns and is where the farming family have lived and worked since 1960. The Cowshed Studio is located on the working farm at the top of a meandering half mile track. It is set in a beautiful rural landscape with a traditional 16th century Suffolk farmhouse next door to the cowshed, and ducks and geese on the nearby ponds. The quality of light and 'big skies' have been treasured by artists for generations. Thorington is a hamlet with just forty inhabitants, but it is close to the villages of Bramfield and Wenhaston which both have pubs offering excellent food. There is a wealth of popular seaside places to visit and Southwold, Walberswick, Dunwich and Minsmere are just ten minutes away. The Cowshed is also very close to Halesworth with The Cut Arts Centre, Aldeburgh and Snape Maltings concert Hall with its range of music and dance events, therefore your course can be supplemented with other cultural events from the area. Maps and local walk guides are available in the B&B rooms for those interested in exploring. It is the perfect place for a peaceful retreat and a stimulating environment in which to learn.

Courses are designed for beginners or those with some experience who want to learn new skills and techniques. Classes will be led by Vivienne and David who have many years experience teaching in schools, Further and Higher education. All students will receive individual attention in order to foster their own creativity and artistic development. Vivienne and David are inspirational teachers and provide a calm and supportive atmosphere for students of all ages and background. You will be surprised at what you can achieve in just a few days. Courses will be held in a studio in converted farm buildings round a sunny and picturesque courtyard. We will teach a maximum of eight students at any one time to ensure each person receives the guidance they need to succeed.

For residential courses accommodation is provided in our 4* B&B suites (see cowshedholidays.co.uk . Do not refer to B&B availability for courses as rooms have been pre–allocated for course members). Four guests can stay in either twin or kingsize double beds. Residential fees are based on two people sharing. An evening supper can be provided at a cost of £12 (bring your own wine). All course fees include refreshments mid morning and afternoon, and lunch. All produce served is homemade, home grown or locally sourced. All areas are accessible to those with mobility problems.

If you and a group of friends wish for a 'tailor made course' please enquire as we are happy to provide tuition for groups of four or more people. You are always welcome to add extra days to your stay on a B&B basis.

A typical programme for the day:

1. Workshop starts at 9.30
2. Break 10.45 -11.00
3. Lunch 1.00 -1.45
4. Break 3.00 – 3.15
5. Workshop ends at 4.30