Raw Wool Retreat Autumn 2025

Take to the Cornish coast for a retreat where knitting intertwines with the essence of exploration. Delve into immersive workshops, visit a working farm, and mill; learn more about natural fibre and traditional Cornish knitting. Embark on brisk autumnal strolls along the shoreline and around the Duchy Estate, and if you’re feeling adventurous, take a cold-water dip in the fresh water river. Between walks, workshops, and time spent knitting by the fire, you can also unwind in the estate’s swimming pool and sauna.

Our goal is to create a fun, creative, fulfilling, and inclusive space for knitters and crafters to enjoy. This is a retreat for those who want to spend time with their craft but also get outside and explore. Expect a 8km hike, visits to farmland and countryside, and a deeper look at how fibre is transformed into yarn by visiting a working mill. There will be plenty of time to sit and knit, but we’ll also be getting up and active.

Is this the retreat for you?

With a four-night stay at Duchy Estate, Lostwithiel—including food and drinks, a goodie bag, workshops, a farm visit, and a tour of a working mill—this retreat brings people together through knitting, fibre, and the landscape.

Inclusivity is one of our core values. As a member of the LGBTQ+ community, Anton welcomes all adult men, women, trans, and non-binary knitters. This is a space for those who wish to explore, bring their knitting, and learn more about farm-to-fiber.

Fancy a cool winter dip in the fresh water river? We’ll dive into immersive workshops, visit local farms, and discover the heritage of Cornish knitting. Expect brisk walks along coastal paths with like-minded people, returning to the warmth of the estate house for tea and a fire—or a relaxing session in the sauna/pool.

If this sounds like the retreat for you, we look forward to welcoming you this November.

What’s included?

As part of the retreat, you’ll take part in:

• A workshop exploring Cornish heritage knitting and patterns

• Farm visits

• A visit to the Natural Fibre Company Mill, home of Blacker Yarns

• Guided walks

• Evening dinners and drinks

• Time to relax in the swimming pool and sauna

• Other workshops and hands-on fiber experiences

For more details, see our FAQ or visit the retreat page on our website.

How active is the retreat?

While there will be time to work on your own projects, this is a knitting retreat like no other. You’ll be strapping on hiking boots, walking muddy trails around a stately home, and immersing yourself in the Cornish countryside. Though activities are optional, we encourage participation to fully experience the retreat. If you have any questions before booking, feel free to reach out.

Schedule

Day 1 (Wednesday) – Arrival & Welcome

A relaxed day to settle in at Duchy Estate. We’ll gather for dinner, get to know each other, and enjoy a quiet evening of knitting before a restful night.

Day 2 (Thursday) – Farm Visit

After breakfast, we’ll head to a working, where Anton will introduce you to the sheep and discuss what it takes to raise them for fibre.

From there, we’ll walk about 1 hours along the Cornish Coast near Mevagissey.

In the afternoon, we’ll return to Duchy Estate for a workshop exploring deep diving into fibre and picking the perfect yarn for the perfect project.

Evening: A happy hour featuring a themed cocktail or mocktail, followed by dinner and relaxed knitting.

Day 3 (Friday) – Mill Visit

After breakfast, we’ll travel to The Natural Fibre Company, home of Blacker Yarns, where we’ll see firsthand how raw fleece is processed into yarn. This is a rare opportunity to witness the journey from fiber to finished skein, learning about the heritage and craftsmanship behind it.

We’ll return to the estate for a relaxing afternoon tea at the Dutchy Nursey, with time to knit, back to the house to use the sauna, or take a dip in the swimming pool/ river before dinner.

Evening: Happy hour and a casual fireside knitting session.

Day 4 (Saturday) – Hike

Prepare for a morning hike through the stunning Cornish countryside. Duchy Estate is surrounded by excellent trails as well as a historical castle all within walking distance of a beautiful riverside village we’ll take full advantage of.

After lunch, Anton will lead a workshop on Cornish Gansey knitting, where you will learn to knit your very own customised Gansey.

Evening: Another happy hour, followed by our final dinner together.

Day 5 (Sunday) – Farewell

A slow morning with optional time to explore the estate gardens. Breakfast, coffee, and a few last rows of knitting before checkout at midday.

A detailed itinerary will be sent before the event. Please note the schedule may be subject to change based on weather.

Terms & Conditions

• Deposits are non-refundable.

• Final payments are due by July 1, 2025. A payment link will be sent to you.

• Refunds are available until August 1, 2025. After this date, tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable.

• Travel arrangements to and from the venue are your responsibility. Please plan to arrive on time.

• This retreat involves walking and exposure to different terrains and weather conditions. Every effort is made to minimize risk, but participation is at your own discretion.

• This retreat is a space for people across all identities, especially those from underrepresented communities. We expect all participants to respect one another—any unacceptable behavior will result in being asked to leave.

For more information, see our FAQ or get in touch with any questions.