7 Night Ireland Art of Aran Retreat with Edel MacBride

Pack your bags for an unforgettable 7-night knitting retreat in the heart of Ireland! Begin with a luxurious stay in Dublin, where you'll explore Christ Church Cathedral (yes, you can ring the famous bells!) and enjoy a VIP shopping experience at This Is Knit. Then, journey to the stunning Fermanagh Lakelands for a four-day stay in a charming country manor with none other than Aran knit expert Edel MacBride. Indulge in relaxing knitting classes and sessions, spa time, lively evenings of music and storytelling, and unique experiences like spinning with Mary of Markree Wool, a boat trip to a lakeside gin distillery, and yarn shopping galore.

Your adventure continues with a magical day at award winning Glenshane Country Farm—watch wool transform from fleece to fashion in a cosy barn warmed by a turf fire, all while savouring homemade scones. Knit with locals at the historic Brownlow House, enjoy Afternoon Tea Downton Abbey style, and discover the luxurious designs of Liz Christy at Swallow Studios. Wrap up your trip with a stay at Killeavy Castle, a visit to the grand Trim Castle, a tour of the Jameson Whiskey Distillery, and a farewell dinner to toast new friendships and unforgettable memories. Knitting has never been this exciting!

What's Included

• Complimentary private transfers on arrival and departure
• Luxury coach with an experienced driver
• Experienced Guide/Tour Manager throughout
• All your Knitting and Craft workshops including materials
• Luxury four star accommodation
• Irish breakfast daily
• Three Course Dinner every night
• 4 lunches, including a fireside lunch at Glenshane Country Farm!
• Welcome Brunch
• Stately Home Afternoon Tea
• Exclusive Shopping in This is Knit, Dublin
• Pre-Dinner Talk with Tapestry and Textile Designer Angela Forte on colour in design
• Retreat Host, knitwear designer and Aran expert Edel MacBride
• 3 knitting workshops with Edel and knitting with Edel throughout retreat
• Crafts of Ireland spinning and knitting, including vintage methods
• Knitting at Brownlow House (Lurgan Castle) with the locals
• Irish Music and Storytelling
• Christchurch Cathedral guided tour and bell ringing!
• The Boatyard Distillery gin tour and tasting
• Glenshane Country Farm - sheepdog demonstration, learn shepherding tricks, shearing, tea and homemade scones.
• Glenshane Country Farm - Fleece to fashion - from washing the fleece to dyeing, spinning and creating yarn!
• Trim Castle visit
• Jameson Whiskey Distillery Tour
• Lots of Yarn Shopping!