Creative Ways to Get Closer to Nature in the Lake District, Cumbria

Written by: Alex

Date posted: 30 May, 2025

If you’re looking for a creative way to enjoy nature in the Lake District, Cumbria, then look no further! From art workshops to garden design days, foraging experiences to photography tours, we’ve got you covered. Take your pick, get creative, and enjoy a day (or more!) in our stunning natural surroundings and making memories to last a lifetime.

Jump to:

• Art Courses at Long House Studios
• Forage & Feast with Forage Box
• Garden Days at Dalemain
• Quirky Workshops at Greystoke Craft Garden & Barns
• Photography Workshops with Amy Bateman

Art Courses at Long House Studios

Nestled in the serene Kentmere valley, Long House Studios offers a range of art courses. Many offer the chance to get out into the surrounding landscapes: there are weekend workshops, weekly sessions, and Summer Courses focused around everything from Woodland & Water to Summer Landscapes 

Forage & Feast with Forage Box

Enjoy a soul-nourishing day in the outdoors, reconnecting with nature and discovering new flavours. Guided by a professional forager, spend the day finding, identifying and tasting wild ingredients Along the way, learn about etiquette, ethics and sustainability as well as taking a closer look at what may be edible - and what’s not! Then, sit down for a wild-inspired picnic at Forage Box HQ. 

Garden Days at Dalemain

Head to the historic Dalemain Mansion & Gardens for a series of informative and fun gardening days. Running once a month until November, they offer a unique opportunity to follow their garden through the seasons alongside a small group of people. There’ll be information, practical work and seasonal tips. RHS members can enjoy a 20% discount. 

Quirky Workshops

Get creative with Quirky Workshops at Greystoke Craft Garden & Barns. A varied programme takes place throughout the year - with something for everyone to enjoy! Their “Print & Gardens” themed workshops include creating botanical lino prints in full colour, garden design tips (including a beginner’s workshop titled 'Gardening for the Terrified'), and Japanese woodblock printing.

Photography Workshops with Amy Bateman

Whether you're a professional or a beginner with a love of the countryside, enjoy unique access to photography subjects normally out of reach with award-winning photographer Amy Bateman. Farm photography workshops and tours offer the chance to capture life on a working Lakeland farm – think livestock, stone walls, traditional hedgerows and more. There are also opportunities to enjoy workshops at locations like Yew Tree Farm and on the shores of Ullswater.