Roses and Castles - traditional canal art with Phil Speight MBE

A weekend learning to paint the roses and castles of traditional canal art - with 'the teacher who teaches the teachers'. 

Phil Speight MBE is one of the UK's best respected canal painters - see the Guardian feature on his work here. Over a weekend at his newly refurbished workshop in Cheshire, Phil gives a lively hands-on guide to painting the roses and castles which are the hallmark of traditional canal culture. All materials are provided, and you will come away with your own piece of roses-and-castles art, and a deeper understanding of this heritage craft. 

Phil's courses always give an entertaining, in-depth study of this uniquely English folk art, under the twinkling eye of a great practitioner.  The courses are in his workshop, in a working boatyard. Feedback is brilliant. One student says: "Phil was patient, funny and such an expert. It was such a pleasure to learn with him." We have a really diverse range of students (age, race, gender and level of painting experience.) All are welcome here.  

Lunch each day, and all the materials you need, are included in the weekend (please let us know any dietary needs at the time of booking). Accommodation is not included, but there is a Travelodge ten minutes' drive away, in Macclesfield. Phil teaches in small groups with a maximum of only four, so book soon - for yourself or as a gift for the canal person in your life.

This weekend includes Valentine's Day - maybe give a bunch of painted flowers this year!