The Turning of the Year: An autumn retreat of calm and crafting

As the light shortens and the season turns inward, we gather at Temple Lodge for a day of calm and quiet crafting. A chance to slow down and prepare the body and the mind for the darker months ahead.

The morning begins outside, with a guided walk through the majestic grounds of the Temple Lodge estate and down towards the woods above the River Swale. We will pause amongst the trees for a guided meditation and a few quiet moments to set our intentions for the season to come.

Then we move inside to create our own small wild apothecary. From a table of dried herbs and flowers, you will blend your own botanical infusion, choosing by scent and by instinct and learning how each plant behaves and what it offers. Next you will learn about plants that can support your immune system as the season turns and finish by making a warming winter syrup from seasonal fruit and spice, to carry into the colder months.

You will leave with something made by your own hands and the quiet company of others who value the same slow way of living.

What to expect:

• A guided woodland walk through the Temple Lodge grounds
• A guided meditation session and intention setting
• Create your own herbal tea blend
• Making a warming winter syrup from seasonal fruit and spice
• Good company with likeminded people

You will take home

• Your own hand blended botanical infusion
• A bottle of warming winter syrup
• Simple notes to help you carry on at home

What is included

• The guided walk and meditation
• All herbs, ingredients, materials and equipment
• The jars and bottles for everything you make
• Teas and biscuits through the morning

Who it is for

A relaxed and welcoming day, suitable for complete beginners. No experience is needed, only curiosity and a wish to slow down. This is an adult gathering, with a minimum age of 18.

How to prepare

Please come dressed for the outdoors, with warm layers and footwear for walking. The ground underfoot can be uneven, so sturdy shoes are important. If rain is forecast, please come well prepared, with wellies or walking boots and waterproof clothing. Bring a notebook if you like to make notes. Everything else is provided.

Your hosts

Aimee guides the apothecary, drawing on a background in herbalism and a love of seasonal plants. Alice is our experienced meditation teacher, leading the meditation and welcoming you to Temple Grounds

Good to know

This is a day of traditional, seasonal craft, offered for enjoyment and learning. It is not medical advice or treatment and is not a substitute for the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional. If you are pregnant or have any allergies, please let us know when you book so we can look after you well.

Booking is essential and places are limited to ten. Parking and full arrival details are provided once you have booked.

Booking, Cancellation and Safety Policy can be found here 

True North offers seasonal workshops and gatherings at Temple Grounds in North Yorkshire, rooted traditional craft and connection with the natural world.

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Email: hello.true.north.workshops@gmail.com