# Cumbrian Watercolor Adventure Art Retreat with Artist Karen Rice in England

Join artist Karen Rice for an unforgettable watercolor journey set within a heritage English Neo-Gothic lodge!

Explore the endless possibilities of watercolor, guided by the expertise and tailored feedback of your instructor. Discover various painting techniques, become confident in your creative vision, and form lifelong bonds with a supportive community of like-minded artists. Benefit from Karen's invaluable guidance through the process, from the first brushstroke to the final painting.

Stay in a gorgeous British lodge located in the heart of England's Lake District with breathtaking views of oak and birch woodland on one side and the tranquil Lake Windermere on the other. Enjoy delicious and nourishing meals prepared by the private chef and explore the gorgeous county of Cumbria with visits to iconic landmarks such as the imposing Wray Castle, the serene Hill Top farmhouse, the charming village of Hawkshead, and a boat ride on the calm waters of Lake Windermere. Along the way, you'll gather inspiration, sketch, and develop a meaningful watercolor collection to take home, along with a kaleidoscope of unforgettable memories.

## Details

- **Dates:** October 15 - 22, 2027
- **Location:** Ambleside, Cumbria, UK
- **Starting Price:** $4,950
- **Currency:** USD
- **Status:** open
- **Group Size:** Max. 17 students
- **Category:** [Painting](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/retreats/painting) · [Browse on uptrek.com](https://uptrek.com/retreats/painting)

## Overview

**What's included**

1. Art classes, individual tuition, and demonstrations with artist Karen Rice
2. Art studio equipped with: tables, chairs, paper towels, water cups, easels, plein-air chairs, 60" screen, table lights, and flowers for reference material
3. Exclusive use of the entire Neo-Gothic estate, including living quarters and common areas, the art studio, outdoor hot tubs, and gardens
4. 7 nights of accommodation at a historic British lodge
5. All meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 7 dinners carefully prepared by a private chef
6. All diets catered for, including vegan and gluten-free
7. Wine and non-alcoholic beverages served during dinner service every day
8. Complimentary water, coffee, tea, and snacks available throughout the day
9. Full-day trip to Hill Top, Wray Castle and the village of Hawkshead with opportunities for sketching and painting on location
10. Half-day art trip to Bowness-on-Windermere and boat cruise on Lake Windermere, with opportunities for sketching and painting on location
11. Half-day guided lakeshore walk, with opportunities for sketching and painting on location
12. Farewell dinner with traditional Cumbrian folk session
13. Entrance ticket to Hill Top
14. An in-house Cumbrian gin tasting experience
15. Private transportation and chaperone for all planned trips and activities
16. Round-trip transfers from/to Oxenholme Lake District station at prearranged times
17. All tourist taxes and fees
18. A dedicated UpTrek retreat coordinator available throughout the whole retreat
19. Fully staffed venue with drivers, cleaning and maintenance staff, and chef and kitchen staff
20. Access to a private Facebook group with artist Karen Rice and the other retreat participants four months before the retreat takes place

**Not included**

- Airfare
- Travel insurance
- Art materials — you will receive a detailed list of art materials recommended by artist Karen Rice five months before the retreat takes place
- Tips for staff
- Other expenses guests might incur on their own

## Program

### Cumbrian Watercolor Art Retreat
Join artist Karen Rice for a life-changing watercolor retreat set on the shores of Lake Windermere, in the heart of England's Lake District. During this weeklong experience, you will learn from your favorite artist through daily classes and extensive demos, receive tailored feedback, and explore Cumbria's beauty on exciting art trips. The retreat welcomes participants of all experience levels.

Discover the wonderful world of watercolors under Karen's expert guidance and create loose, expressive artwork. You'll cover a wide variety of techniques and experiment, discovering your style and unique strengths during your daily classes. Most importantly, you'll bond with a supportive community of fellow artists. By the end of the art retreat, you'll have created a beautiful collection of watercolor paintings that portray the Lake District's tranquil lakes, wooded shores, and rolling fells.

Beyond the studio, immerse yourself in the Lake District's natural beauty, sketching and painting outdoors in picturesque locations. Capture the wooded islands of Lake Windermere from the water, the cottage garden of Beatrix Potter's Hill Top, the turrets of Wray Castle, and the whitewashed lanes of Hawkshead as you develop a deeper connection to your surroundings.

**Some topics covered during your classes with Karen include:**

- Watercolor basics: wet-on-wet, wet-on-dry, damp-into-wet, damp-into-damp
- Uniform washes
- Lifting off method
- Plastic card technique
- Spattering technique
- Embracing the happy accident
- How to make your paintings look more 3D by using color, tonal values, texture, mark-making, and size
- Capturing great reference photos and transposing them into paintings
- Exploring abstracts, florals, and landscapes
- Discovering your style
- ...and many more.

Your venue for this art retreat is a grand Neo-Gothic lodge on the shore of Lake Windermere, framed by oak and birch woodland. The entire property is rented solely for this retreat. Your classes will take place in a spacious lakeside studio set in a heated marquee right in front of the lodge, with panoramic windows overlooking the water. Between painting sessions, relax by the log burner in the lounge or unwind in the outdoor hot tubs. Immerse yourself in Cumbrian hospitality with chef-made meals, a local gin tasting, and a traditional folk music session.

### Day 1: Arrival
Arrive at Oxenholme Lake District station and hop on the 2:30 PM transfer to the venue, arriving at around 4:00 PM. Once there, unpack and unwind in your cozy room. Settle in, then meet artist Karen Rice, your instructor for the week, as well as your art group.

Join a delightful tour of the lakeside lodge and its elegant common spaces. As dusk settles, gather with your fellow participants for a delectable welcome dinner, each bite enhanced by a glass of wine.

### Day 2: Art classes at the venue
Start your morning with a nourishing breakfast and a warm cup of coffee before stepping into the studio for the first time. Discover the day's schedule, then get ready for your first class.

Begin your watercolor exploration by getting familiar with your art materials. Karen will introduce you to a couple of basic techniques, such as wet-on-dry, wet-on-wet, or damp-into-damp. Follow along with her demonstrations and practice these essential techniques. After warming up, move on to playing with washes and different effects, like spattering, spritzing, tilting, using plastic cards or salt, and more. Towards the end of the class, practice these techniques with some simple landscape watercolor studies.

Refuel with a satisfying lunch, then return to the studio for your afternoon class. Karen will demonstrate how to paint a loose, step-by-step Lake District landscape, encouraging you to do the same and use the techniques practiced during the morning session. She will be available throughout the class for tailored feedback and support if needed.

As the day winds down, take some time to rest and unwind in the late afternoon. Enjoy a tasty three-course dinner prepared by the private chef and accompanied by fragrant wine as you exchange impressions of the first day at the retreat with Karen and your fellow artists.

### Day 3: Art trip to Bowness-on-Windermere and boat cruise
Fuel up with a hearty breakfast and a fresh cup of coffee, then pack your art supplies and get ready for your first trip of the retreat: a half-day trip to Bowness-on-Windermere and a cruise on England's largest natural lake.

Glide past wooded islands, including Belle Isle and its rare Georgian round house, and look west toward the dramatic peaks of the Langdale Pikes. The shoreline is lined with Victorian villas and boathouses, many of which can only be properly admired from the water. Back on shore, wander the slate-built streets of Bowness, taking reference photos and quick sketches of scenes that catch your eye.

Return to the venue for a nourishing lunch, then join Karen and your fellow artists in the studio for an afternoon class. Learn how to transform your photos and sketches from the morning's trip into beautiful watercolor paintings. Karen will show you how to choose the perfect layout for your piece and plan a sketch using the photos you took during the trip. Play with the techniques you've learned so far and let your creativity flow.

As the class comes to an end, enjoy some spare time to recharge before dinner. The day ends with a delightful three-course dinner, complemented by a glass of wine. Discuss today's adventure with your fellow artists as night falls.

### Day 4: Art classes at the venue
Start your morning with a refreshing breakfast, then check in with Karen and your fellow artists over coffee before heading into the morning class.

During the morning class, Karen will guide you through the planning and painting of a landscape, focusing on size, detail, tone, color, and contrast. Using the surrounding landscape as a source of inspiration, she'll encourage you to play with a variety of techniques, such as tilting the paper to experiment with washes and using spattering, salt, and plastic card techniques to enhance depth, details, and texture in your watercolor paintings.

Take a break for lunch and enjoy a delicious meal, then continue the afternoon with another art session. During this class, you will have the opportunity to practice and refine your watercolor skills and develop your paintings, benefiting from Karen's demonstrations and one-to-one feedback. You will start to gain confidence in watercolor by practicing techniques and washes. You will also learn the importance of tonal values and color mixing to create atmosphere and depth in your paintings.

In the evening, enjoy a guided Cumbrian gin tasting at the lodge, followed by a wholesome three-course dinner paired with a glass of fragrant wine, reflecting on your progress so far with your fellow artists.

### Day 5: Art trip to Hill Top, Wray Castle, and Hawkshead
Kick off the day with a satisfying breakfast followed by a coffee check-in to discuss the day ahead. Prepare for an unforgettable full-day trip to Hill Top, Wray Castle, and the village of Hawkshead.

The morning begins at Hill Top, Beatrix Potter's 17th-century farmhouse, preserved as she left it, with the fireplaces, staircases, and clocks that appear in her illustrations. Use this time to sketch what inspires you, capture textures and patterns, or take reference photos for later. Make sure to explore the cottage garden, where flowers, herbs, and vegetable patches offer no shortage of subjects to work from.

Continue to Wray Castle, a Victorian Neo-Gothic castle on the western shore of Lake Windermere, and break for lunch before wandering its grounds down to the lake. In the afternoon, visit Hawkshead, a village of whitewashed cottages and narrow lanes. Take a leisurely walk through the village, sketch the charming streets and stop wherever inspiration strikes, whether that's a tranquil corner for a coffee or simply a pretty view worth capturing.

As the afternoon ends, return to the venue for some spare time to rest and refresh. The evening features a delicious three-course dinner prepared by the private chef, paired with a glass of wine.

### Day 6: Art class and guided walk along Lake Windermere's shore
Enjoy a nourishing breakfast and a warm cup of coffee, then return to the studio and settle in with Karen and your fellow artists as the retreat enters its final stretch.

This morning, you will be exploring color mixing and layered washes while shaping compositions that balance harmony with expression. Karen will show you the importance of line and color in your paintings. She will demonstrate a structured process that will help you develop your work with confidence using sketches, reference photos, and your imagination.

After lunch, head out for a gentle guided walk along the shore of Lake Windermere. Stroll on level paths through oak and birch woodland running down to the water, past drystone walls and Herdwick sheep grazing in the fields. Take reference photos, make quick sketches, or pause to take in the serene view. The walk is taken at your own pace, so you can stop to sketch and rejoin the group on its way back.

Return to the venue and take some time to relax before dinner. In the evening, gather for a hearty three-course dinner prepared by the in-house chef and paired with a glass of aromatic wine. Reflect on the week so far with your fellow artists and soak in the evening's lovely atmosphere.

### Day 7: Art classes at the venue
The last day of the retreat starts with a filling breakfast and continues with a coffee check-in in the company of Karen and your fellow artists, reflecting on your journey so far.

During the morning class, you will focus on your personal artistic growth. Continue working on a previous piece or start something new inspired by the week's trips, practicing water control, brush techniques, and color theory. Address any lingering questions and gain advice on how to continue your watercolor journey at home. Karen will offer guidance on enhancing your paintings, helping you bring them to completion with confidence.

Take a break for lunch, then get ready for a special event: a celebratory mini-exhibition, showcasing the work you've created throughout the week. While participation is optional, it's a wonderful opportunity to display your achievements, exchange constructive feedback, and celebrate the progress made during the retreat in a supportive environment.

As the afternoon comes to an end, take some time to recharge. Gather one final time for a delightful three-course farewell dinner prepared by the private chef, accompanied by a traditional Cumbrian folk session. Raise your glass to a week of creative discoveries and new friendships, savoring the warmth of Karen and your fellow creatives, with whom you have forged unforgettable memories.

### Day 8: Departure
Enjoy breakfast together with Karen and your fellow artists, exchange any last contacts, and catch the 10:00 AM transfer to Oxenholme Lake District station, arriving at the station at around 11:30 AM.

## Instructors

- [Karen Rice](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/instructors/karen-rice) — Watercolor artist and teacher

## Accommodation

### British lakeside lodge
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Cumbria's Lake District, your venue for the retreat with Karen Rice is a historic Neo-Gothic lodge. Built in 1834 for the Rawson family, this magnificent lodge offers inspiring vistas of pure natural wonder, between rolling hills, expansive forests, small islets, and a tranquil lake that stretches across the horizon.

The lodge features beautifully decorated rooms and common areas such as an inviting lounge with a rustic log burner fire, a charming library, a cocktail room, a fully equipped kitchen, a game room, and a cinema room. Outdoors, you can sit in one of the dedicated seating areas of the vast courtyard and enjoy sweeping views of the lake or take a dip in one of the outdoor hot tubs.

Classes will take place in a spacious 1,000 sq ft (93 m²) lakeside studio set in a high-quality marquee right in front of the lodge and in a smaller 484 sq ft (45 m²) indoor studio located on the first floor.

Each room, outfitted with either twin or super king-sized beds and ensuite bathrooms, combines elegant furniture with stylish decor, creating an inviting atmosphere for relaxation and reflection.

Wi-Fi and heating are available throughout the entire property, including all rooms, common areas, and the indoor studio. The lakeside marquee studio is also fully heated. As summer temperatures in the Lake District are typically mild and rarely reach a high level, the lodge does not feature air conditioning. The building retains a comfortable temperature naturally, therefore, no air conditioning is needed. However, fan coolers can be provided in the rooms upon request.

Please note that navigating the venue will involve climbing a few sets of stairs, which may present challenges for those with low or limited mobility.

### Shared standard courtyard ensuite room
One standard ensuite room is available for shared occupancy. This room and its ensuite bathroom will be shared between two same-gender participants.

Located on the second floor of the lodge, this room is outfitted with comfortable twin beds. The ensuite shower bathroom is equipped with toiletries, towels, and hairdryers for your comfort and convenience. The room also features Wi-Fi access and bright windows with sweeping views of the venue’s courtyard.

Enjoy a moment of rest in-between your creative workshops in this tranquil room, decorated in an elegant, modern style.

### Shared Grand suite
One grand suite is available for shared occupancy. The suite and its ensuite bathroom will be shared between two same-gender participants.

Situated on the second floor, this spacious suite features comfortable twin beds, with plenty of space for a lounge area where you can relax on the couch with a cup of coffee in hand, by the tall and bright windows framing stunning views towards Lake Windermere.

The large ensuite shower bathroom is equipped with toiletries, towels, hairdryers, and a double sink. The suite also features Wi-Fi access and offers views to both the venue's courtyard and the tranquil lake.

### Single top ensuite loft
Two top ensuite lofts are available for single occupancy.

Situated on the top floor of the lodge, the lofts are equipped with cozy super king-sized beds and ensuite shower bathrooms featuring toiletries, towels, and hairdryers. The rooms also benefit from Wi-Fi access and views towards the venue’s vibrant courtyard.

Recharge your creativity in a cozy and tastefully decorated room full of British charm.

### Single standard courtyard ensuite room
Two standard ensuite rooms with courtyard views are available for single occupancy.

Located on the second floor of the lodge, these rooms are outfitted with soft super king-sized beds and ensuite shower bathrooms featuring toiletries, towels, and hairdryers for your comfort and convenience.

Relax in a tranquil space with lovely modern furniture and lots of natural light. Take in the sweeping views of the venue’s courtyard with your coffee in hand.

### Single standard lake ensuite room
Two standard ensuite rooms with lake views are available for single occupancy.

Situated on the second floor, these rooms feature ensuite shower bathrooms equipped with toiletries, towels, and hairdryers, and comfortable super king-sized beds to ensure a restful night’s sleep.

The rooms also benefit from Wi-Fi access and tall, bright windows offering serene views of the nearby Lake Windermere. Recharge between your creative workshops in a cozy and elegantly decorated room, filled with British charm.

### Single accessible suite
One accessible suite is available for single occupancy.

This suite is located on the first floor of the lodge, close to the workshop space and the common areas, offering stunning views of both Lake Windermere and the venue’s tranquil courtyard.

Featuring a comfortable super king-sized bed and a wheelchair-accessible ensuite shower bathroom equipped with toiletries, towels, and hairdryers, this suite is the perfect space to relax in, with easy access to the workshop space, the courtyard, and the common areas.

### Single top suite
Two top suites are available for single occupancy.

Located on the top floor of the lodge, these suites feature plenty of space for a cozy seating area with a comfortable couch, an armchair, and a coffee table, where you can enjoy serene views of the lake or of the venue’s courtyard from high above.

The suites also benefit from Wi-Fi access and have ensuite shower bathrooms equipped with toiletries, towels, and hairdryers. Soft, super king-sized beds will ensure a full night’s sleep in this cozy and elegantly furnished top suite.

### Single superior courtyard suite
One superior suite facing the courtyard is available for single occupancy.

Situated on the second floor, this spacious suite features beautiful views of the venue’s sprawling courtyard. Decorated in an elegant and modern style, this suite is perfect for unwinding after a day filled with creativity and inspiration.

The suite is outfitted with a cozy super king-sized bed, Wi-Fi, and an ensuite shower bathroom equipped with toiletries, towels, and hairdryers. Enjoy your morning in this comfortable room, with sunlight streaming through the windows as you start your day.

### Single superior lake suite
Two superior suites facing the lake are available for single occupancy.

Both suites are located on the second floor of the lodge, offering sweeping views of the nearby Lake Windermere. These spacious suites offer an inviting lounge area with tall and bright windows where you can enjoy your morning coffee, next to tranquil views of the lake.

The suites also feature Wi-Fi access, ensuite shower bathrooms equipped with toiletries, towels, and hairdryers for your comfort and convenience, and comfortable super king-sized beds.

Unwind in between your creative workshops in this elegantly decorated room.

### Single Master Grand suite
One grand master suite is available for single occupancy.

This spacious and elegantly decorated suite is the perfect space to relax in after a day filled with creativity and wonder.

Situated on the second floor, this suite features a dedicated seating area with a comfortable couch, cozy armchairs, and tall windows with stunning views of Lake Windermere. The large ensuite bathroom is equipped with a double sink, a roll-top bathtub, and a separate shower.

A soft, super king-sized bed will ensure a restful night’s sleep. Unwind in this inviting room with serene views of the lake that will spark ideas for your next creation.

## Food

During your art retreat, indulge in meals prepared by a private chef, using the freshest ingredients. The curated menu combines traditional Cumbrian dishes with international flavors, complemented by daily beverages and snacks.

Start each day with a one-course breakfast served at the table, including granola, scones, yogurt, fruit bowls, refreshing juice, coffee, and organic herbal tea, as well as egg dishes, crepes, and overnight oats. For lunch, enjoy a single course with options like soups, salads, homemade breads, and platters.

In the evening, enjoy a delicious three-course dinner featuring locally sourced produce and seasonal veggies. Conclude on a sweet note with desserts like apple crumble, lemon and mascarpone tart, toffee pudding with vanilla ice cream, kulfi, and brownies.

Experience authentic Cumbrian hospitality with three-course dinners, paired with flavorful wine. Throughout the retreat, enjoy fresh juices during breakfast. Coffee, tea, herbal teas, and mineral water will be readily available all day. Treat yourself to a mid-afternoon snack or grab some fruit from the snack bar for a quick pick-me-up.

All meals are included. The exact menu served will depend on the availability of the regional ingredients. For more details on the food offerings during the retreat, see the section below.

Please inform us of any dietary requirements at least one month in advance. We may not be able to accommodate severe, life-threatening allergies. Additionally, we cannot cater to dietary needs announced less than a month before the retreat, switch diets during the retreat, or accommodate last-minute requests made on the spot.

## Getting There

The venue for your retreat with Karen Rice is a grand British estate surrounded by breathtaking views of expansive woodlands and the tranquil Lake Windermere. Cumbria is known for its beautiful lakes, nature, and artistic roots and history. Just a few minutes away from historic landmarks such as Beatrix Potter's Hill Top, the grand Wray Castle, the cozy village of Hawkshead, and Lake Windermere. The area is steeped in a rich literary history, serving as a muse for well-known artists such as Beatrix Potter, William Wordsworth, Dorothy Wordsworth, John Cunliffe, and many others!

The grand, three-story lodge is a gorgeous Neo-Gothic estate that is decorated in classic English elegance. Expansive woodlands blanket the grounds, leading to the grand Lake Windermere, where small islets and calm waters create unforgettable vistas. Majestic birch and oak trees form shaded spots, perfect for relaxation, while the nearby pier offers the perfect place for quiet reflection and creative inspiration. As you sketch by the water's edge, you might spot Arctic char flashing gold across the surface, playful otters swimming on the shore, or red squirrels darting from one tree to another.

**To be transferred to the retreat venue, please arrive at Oxenholme Lake District Station.** We strongly recommend planning more time for long-distance international travel. It is best to arrive in England a day before the retreat starts to prevent any inconveniences caused by flight delays, rest after the long travel, and adjust to the new time zone.

Please hold off booking flights until the retreat becomes guaranteed and you have been charged for your participation.

**How to get from Oxenholme Lake District Station** **to the retreat venue:**

Private transfers from Oxenholme Lake District Station at prearranged times are included. The transfer journey to the retreat venue takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes by car. Check-in at the retreat venue starts at 4:00 PM on October 15, 2027. Check-out is at 10:00 AM on October 22, 2027. **Please note that we cannot accommodate early check-ins and late check-out requests, so we kindly ask that you plan your arrival and departure accordingly.**

**Arrival transfer:**

**October 15, 2027** — 2:30 PM (leaving from Oxenholme Lake District Station, arriving at the retreat venue at approximately 4:00 PM)

**Departure transfer:**

**October 22, 2027** — 10:00 AM (leaving from the retreat venue, arriving at Oxenholme Lake District Station at approximately 11:30 AM)

**If your travel arrangements don't work with our pre-set transfer times, please consider the following options:**

- Spend extra days at a hotel in Manchester or nearby towns before or after the retreat and catch the transfer shuttles to/from Oxenholme Lake District Station.
- Land in Manchester and take a taxi to the retreat venue (address: Fallbarrow Hall, Rayrigg Rd, Bowness-on-Windermere, Windermere LA23 3DL, United Kingdom; approximate cost: £200 GBP). Taxi fares may vary.

## Reviews

**Reviews from previous UpTrek retreats with Karen Rice:**

- "This retreat was the most amazing art experience I have ever had. I have followed Karen’s tutorial online and was so excited to actually do the workshop with her."

- "Everything about this retreat was perfect. Karen’s teaching is amazing. I have followed her tutorials since Covid began and loved having face-to-face time with her. We all want Karen to do another retreat next year."

- "Well planned and executed. Everyone helped/supported/encouraged everyone else."

- "From the arrival to departure my needs were met and my learning was vast. I have to mention the fun had by me and the relationships we made. I would go to this retreat again in a heartbeat! Karen made our time there worth every moment. The painting and support was beyond expectations!"

- "Perfect. Great food, fab hosts, great learning opportunities in an ideal location. Instructions by Karen were super as usual."

- "Karen is an excellent instructor and incredibly personable. And the venue exceeded my expectations. From the quietude and beauty of the property to the wonderful meals, everything was wonderful. The hosts have my highest recommendation -- and Karen as a teacher! (And my thanks to \*you\*, Ana (Uptrek), for so seamlessly facilitating all the details. I felt very comfortable going into the trip because of all the prep beforehand.)"

- "The venue and staff were wonderful. The 2 excursions added to the experience and of course, Karen is a wonderful & fun teacher! Kudos for organizing!"

- "I loved the experience of an entire week of painting with Karen Rice. I learned so much - not only about painting, but of myself as an artist. Karen was very easy to talk to and she filled the week with instruction that focused on techniques as well as how to paint from our own photos. I also loved painting and sharing with other artists. I'm looking forward to the next retreat!"

- "Karen is a wonderful teacher and made the experience better than I had anticipated. The side trips were well arranged and the tour guide was outstanding. It was a memorable trip and I could not have been more satisfied with all of Uptrek's arrangements."

## Frequently Asked Questions

**Is the retreat available to all levels?**

The retreat with artist Karen Rice is open to all levels of experience.

**When is the retreat available?**

The retreat with artist Karen Rice in Cumbria, England, takes place between October 15 - 22, 2027.

**Are there any check-in and check-out hours?**

Please make your travel arrangements to arrive after 4:00 PM on October 15, 2027. Check-out is after breakfast, by 10:00 AM, on the last day of the retreat, October 22, 2027. **Please note that we cannot accommodate early check-ins and late check-out requests, so we kindly ask that you plan your arrival and departure accordingly.**

**Is Wi-Fi available?**

Yes. Free Wi-Fi is available in the main reception space, dining and living rooms, workshop spaces, common areas, and all rooms.

**I am vegetarian/vegan. Can I book this retreat?**

Yes. Regular, vegetarian, vegan, diabetic, gluten-free, and lactose-free diets are catered for. Please get in touch in advance to discuss your dietary requirements. Please note, however, that we cannot accommodate severe, life-threatening allergies.

**How do I get to the retreat venue?**

Private transfers at prearranged times to and from Oxenholme Lake District Station are included. The transfer from the station to the retreat venue takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes by car. Oxenholme Lake District Station is served by direct trains from Manchester Airport (MAN) and London Euston. We recommend allowing more time for international travel and arriving in England a day before the retreat starts so that you may adapt to the new time zone ahead of the retreat. Please hold off booking flights until the retreat becomes guaranteed and you have been charged for your participation.

For more information, please read the [Location tab](https://uptrek.com/retreat/cumbrian-watercolor-adventure-art-retreat-artist-karen-rice-england#location).

**What’s the weather like in Cumbria, England, in October?**

The weather in Cumbria, England, in October is generally cool and fresh, with frequent changes between sunshine and rain. You can expect average highs of 12°C / 54°F during the day that drop to around 6°C / 43°F at night. Daylight lasts approximately 10.5 hours, and the season brings rich autumn colors to the woodlands and fells around Lake Windermere.

**What should I pack?**

Please pack warm clothing suitable for layering (t-shirts, sweaters, a fleece, and a waterproof rain jacket), as the weather can change quickly. We recommend sturdy, waterproof walking shoes or boots for the trips and the lakeshore walk, a portable stool for sketching on location, a swimsuit for the outdoor hot tubs, a UK plug adapter (Type G), personal care items, and any personal medication you might need.

**Can I do laundry while on the retreat?**

Yes. The venue has a utility room with washing machines and a dryer, which guests can use at any time during the retreat.

**What supplies do I need for the workshops?**

A detailed list of art materials recommended by artist Karen Rice will be provided five months before the retreat takes place.

Tables, chairs, paper towels, water cups, easels, plein-air chairs, 60" screen, table lights, and fresh flowers are included and will be available at the retreat venue. **Students are responsible for bringing their own art supplies, based on the instructor’s recommended list.**

**How many people are to be expected on the retreat?**

There is a maximum number of 17 participants.

**Are the hot tubs available to use?**

Yes. The venue has two outdoor hot tubs available to guests during the retreat. Please note that the hot tubs are not in use between 10:00 PM and 8:00 AM.

**Do I need a visa?**

Guests traveling from the US, Canada, EU, and other visa-exempt countries will need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before entering the UK. For more information on the ETA, including eligibility and application steps, please visit the official UK government website: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/apply-for-an-electronic-travel-authorisation-eta

**Please contact us for further guidance.**

**Is there a local currency I should acquire before arriving?**

The currency is the British Pound Sterling (£). Credit and debit cards (Visa and Mastercard) are widely accepted throughout England, including in local towns such as Ambleside, Bowness-on-Windermere, and Hawkshead. Make sure you notify your bank that you'll be using your card in the United Kingdom.

However, we recommend carrying some cash for small purchases in village shops and cafés. An ATM is available in the nearby village, a 10-minute walk from the venue. Tipping is customary in England.

**Are there any age restrictions?**

There are no restrictions whatsoever. Please keep in mind that you must be 18 years of age to travel independently.

**Is the retreat available to guests with limited mobility?**

Unfortunately, the retreat venue and trips are not well suited for people with limited mobility. The trips involve plenty of walking on uneven streets. Getting around the accommodation spaces, the studio, and the relaxation areas requires a short walk and climbing stairs.

**What language is used during the workshops and other activities?**

The retreat is available in English.

**What happens if I need to cancel?**

Once the retreat is guaranteed, all payments are final and nonrefundable. Bookings are nonrefundable under any circumstances. Participants are required to purchase travel, medical, and cancellation insurance for protection against any circumstances that might require cancellation or change of travel arrangements. After your payment is processed, you may purchase insurance through the following link: [Purchase insurance](https://uptrek.com/protect-your-trip). Please review our [cancellation policy.](https://uptrek.com/cancellation-policy)

**Do I need travel insurance?**

Yes. Since all bookings are nonrefundable, travel insurance is mandatory for all UpTrek travelers. Participants are required to purchase travel, medical, and cancellation insurance for protection against any circumstances that might require cancellation or change of travel arrangements. We strongly advise that your chosen policy provides cover against lost or delayed baggage, loss of personal belongings, trip cancellation, trip interruption, accidents, illness, injury, medical expenses, death, and emergency repatriation.

For your convenience, UpTrek is affiliated with Allianz Travel and is a Registered Travel Retailer under AGA license. [Click here to purchase your insurance plan.](https://uptrek.com/protect-your-trip)

Please note that UpTrek is not qualified or authorized to answer questions about coverage, benefits, exclusions, or conditions of any Allianz Travel Insurance plan. If you have questions about your plan, please contact Allianz Global Assistance directly at [CustomerService@AllianzAssistance.com](mailto:CustomerService@AllianzAssistance.com) or by phone at 1-800-284-8300. Be sure to provide the **reference code F215276** so Allianz knows you are purchasing protection for an UpTrek trip.

We strongly recommend reviewing the terms and conditions of any insurance policy you purchase to fully understand the coverage, benefits, and claims process. We will gladly provide the essential documentation to support refund claims with the insurance provider.

**Do I have to pay a deposit?**

No. Once the number of guest reservations reaches the minimum number required for the retreat to become guaranteed, UpTrek charges the guests the cost of the retreat. Guests who reserved will be notified 48 hours in advance that their payment method on file is about to be charged.

**Will I receive a full refund if the retreat is not guaranteed?**

UpTrek does not charge the payment method we collect until the retreat becomes guaranteed. Once the retreat is guaranteed, there will be no reimbursement. Participants are required to purchase travel, medical, and cancellation insurance for protection against any circumstances that might require cancellation or change of travel arrangements.

**Will I receive a full refund if the guaranteed retreat is canceled by the instructor or by UpTrek?**

If the retreat is canceled due to force majeure events or circumstances out of UpTrek's and/or the instructor's control, UpTrek will let you know as soon as possible, refund the total cost of the retreat, and help you find another option for your vacation.

## Book This Retreat

👉 **[Reserve your spot on uptrek.com](https://uptrek.com/retreat/cumbrian-watercolor-adventure-art-retreat-artist-karen-rice-england#book)** — no deposit required.

See [cancellation policy](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/cancellation-policy) and [travel insurance requirements](https://uptrek.com/ai/content/insurance).

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**Canonical URL:** https://uptrek.com/retreat/cumbrian-watercolor-adventure-art-retreat-artist-karen-rice-england
**Last updated:** 2026-10-21