Explorer Club

Join us each Saturday for an outdoor adventure in the woodlands surrounding the Farm Shop with our Explorer Leader!

Children and explorers will go on a sensory journey, discovering things such as:

• Sounds in nature

• Touch and feel of textures in the natural environment

• Looking for shapes and colours in nature

Each session includes a craft workshop, which might include making models using clay or using feathers and foraged objects to sculpt, draw and paint.

There will always be a campfire to gather around, where explorers might sing or read a story. And there’s always time for hot chocolate and marshmallows, too!

Each explorer will be awarded a certificate at the end of the session to celebrate the completion of a great day out.

Key information

• Meet at the Farm Shop.

• 10am-11.30am.

• Mixed ages.

All children must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the club. But don’t worry, there will be time at the start for you to grab a hot drink in the Farm Shop before we head off. Only participating children require tickets.

Mini Explorer Club at Wild Cat Wood.

Every Tuesday, 10am - 11am. Term time only.
Suitable for explorers aged 0-2.
£7 per child.

These outdoor weekly explorer club sessions are designed specifically for babies and toddlers, and led by our wonderful, friendly and knowledgeable Explorer Leader, Ffion. There will be sensory activity areas with nature-based toys that encourage exploration and development, cosy corners filled with books and singing and seasonal story time around the fire.

The sessions will take place just a short walk from The Farm Farm shop.
Meet at the entrance, where you will be greeted by Ffion.

Explorer Club

Join us each Saturday for an outdoor adventure in the woodlands surrounding the Farm Shop with our Explorer Leader!

Children and explorers will go on a sensory journey, discovering things such as:

• Sounds in nature

• Touch and feel of textures in the natural environment

• Looking for shapes and colours in nature

Each session includes a craft workshop, which might include making models using clay or using feathers and foraged objects to sculpt, draw and paint.

There will always be a campfire to gather around, where explorers might sing or read a story. And there’s always time for hot chocolate and marshmallows, too!

Each explorer will be awarded a certificate at the end of the session to celebrate the completion of a great day out.

Key information

• Meet at the Farm Shop.

• 10am-11.30am.

• Mixed ages.

All children must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the club. But don’t worry, there will be time at the start for you to grab a hot drink in the Farm Shop before we head off. Only participating children require tickets.

Join us for hot toddies at Hawarden Old Castle at sunrise to celebrate the winter solstice, followed by a festive breakfast in The Alpine Village, mimosas and mince pies.

Tickets are £30 per person and include

An exclusive walk through the usually private parkland of Hawarden Estate

Tea, coffee or hot toddy at the Old Castle

A delicious breakfast cooked over the fire and a mimosa on a beautifully styled table at the Farm Shop. 

THE MENU

To be confirmed

Wellness Day: Yoga, Sauna, Cold Plunge & Hot Tub

Friday 9th January
9:45am-3:00pm

This workshop is suitable for everyone, including beginners; with guided instructions and techniques to help you gain a better understanding of how hot / cold therapy affects your body.

Session during the day will include:

• Yoga at Hawarden Old Castle

• A Sauna in The Walled Garden.

• A cold plunge tank.

• A wood-fired hot tub.

• A seaweed foot bath with Halen Môn products.

As your guide, Emma Garland AKA The Good Food Yogi, puts it:

“We work with the breath and provide a deeper feeling of engagement and resistance within your body to build heat and strength in the body without necessarily moving fast. Time spent outdoors in nature can be a great way to boost the mind and body, as well as the nervous and immune system. Experiencing natural sunlight can boost your mood and productivity.

Join us for a day away in the magical space that is The Walled Garden School; Surrounded by nature in ancient woodland, this space will take you a world away from it all.”

All equipment, food and drink throughout the day is provided.

£80 PER PERSON

Timings

9:45am: Meet, greet, walk and breathe through the walled garden on this restorative day for yourself; and maybe friends or loved ones, we’ll start the day with a hot drink, before heading off for a walk around the beautiful walled garden. We’ll take this walk up to the ‘old castle’, where we’ll enjoy some various breathwork techniques, designed to warm us up from the outside in; whilst enjoying the breathtaking rural views from the top of the hill. We’ll talk positively about how nature helps us reconnect.

10:40am: Move, breathe and flow.

We’ll head roll out our yoga mats up at The Old castle whilst still feeling connected with the natural world. We’ll enjoy flowing movement to expand our bodies and hearts. When we expand and open our chest, understand our shoulders and the impact of tension held around the neck; here we can fully feel our inner power within. Our posture is greatly improved and we can allow ourselves to feel the finer muscles within our bodies that may need to be awakened.

11:30am: We’ll walk back down to The Walled Garden to get changed and have a shower using Halen Môn’s body scrub. There will be light snacks including fruit and pastries available.

12:30pm: You will then be guided through different wellness sessions. Sauna and cold plunge and a Sea weed foot bath, the hot tub will also be available. Participants will need to be aware that they will be sharing water for the hot tub and the cold plunge.

2pm: Late light lunch from Hawarden Estate Farm Shop.

3pm: Say goodbye.

Yoga: Reset and Rebalance with Emma Garland

Saturday 17th January
9:45am-2:00pm
Lunch, snacks and unlimited tea and coffee included.

Exploring the Body to Help Reset

As we age, aches and pains can start to creep up on us. Often we'll put it down to old age and carry on! But most aches and tightness/tension within the body is muscular, which means you can do something about it. We'll explore our bodies through movement in this dedicated yoga workshop session, allowing us to bring a greater awareness to listening to when our bodies speak to us. This is a day of knowledge and learning, and also a restful, restorative day allowing you to reconnect with yourself and within nature.

As your guide, Emma Garland AKA The Good Food Yogi, puts it:

“This workshop session is suitable for everyone, including beginners; with guided instructions and techniques to help you switch on some of those smaller, underused muscles within the body and start to ease some of the muscular pain you may experience, particularly around those tighter areas of the body, like neck and shoulders, back, hamstrings, hips and belly.

We will work with the breath and provide a deeper feeling of engagement and resistance within your body to build heat and strength in the body without necessarily moving fast.

Time spent outdoors in nature can be a great way to boost the mind and body, as well as the nervous and immune system. Experiencing natural sunlight can also boost your mood and productivity!

Join us for a day away in the magical space that is The Walled Garden School, surrounded by nature in ancient woodland, this space will take you a world away from it all.”

All equipment, food and drink throughout the day is provided.

£45 per person

Timings

9:45am: Meet, greet, walk and breathe through The Walled Garden.

In this restorative day for yourself, and maybe friends or loved ones, we’ll start the day with a hot drink before heading off for a walk around the beautiful Walled Garden. We’ll take this walk up to the Old Castle, where we’ll enjoy some various breathwork techniques, designed to warm us up from the outside in; whilst enjoying the breathtaking rural views from the top of the hill. We’ll talk positively about how nature helps us reconnect.

11:30am: Move, breathe and flow.

We’ll head back to roll out our yoga mats indoors in the new Conservatory at The Walled Garden School whilst still feeling connected with the natural world. We’ll enjoy flowing movement to expand our bodies and hearts. When we expand and open our chest, understand our bodies and the impact of tension held around typically tighter areas; here we can fully feel our inner power within. Our posture is greatly improved and we can allow ourselves to feel the finer muscles within our bodies that may need to be awakened. We’ll then sink into some relaxation before heading for a well deserved lunch.

1pm: Refuel

Lunch from the award-winning Hawarden Estate Farm Shop is included. We’ll round up our restorative day with a hearty, warming lunch to fuel our bodies and minds and chat with like-minded new friends.

2pm: Time to say goodbye

All equipment, food and drink throughout the day is provided.

Introduction to Fermentation with The Plucky Pickle

Sunday 18th January
10:30am - 2pm
Lunch and unlimited tea and coffee included.

Delve into the wonders of fermentation with a true expert.

Together with Jules Goddard AKA The Plucky Pickle you will discover:

• What fermentation is.

• How to not be afraid of fermenting.

• How easy it is!

• The importance of microbes on our plates.

Jules will share her knowledge of different types of fermentation and we will create a seasonal ferment together for you to take home with you. We will have tasters to try and share and you can explore the wonderful textures and flavours fermentation brings.

“Come meet the microbes, have some hands-on fun and learn how to make your own seasonal ferment confidently and safely!”

£60 PER PERSON

About The Plucky Pickle

Jules Goddard, aka The Plucky Pickle, has been fermenting and preserving for over 30 years and has taught well over 1,000 people at her events. After a career in hosting renewable energy conferences and global events for companies such as Informa and Thomson Reuters, Jules turned her passion for fermenting into a small business in Manchester, producing ferments for delis/restaurants and teaching masterclasses to the public and hospitality industry.

Jules is also CCO of The Fermenters Guild in the UK and Ireland, an association focused on supporting professionals who work with fermentation.

Her inspiration will always be her Italian nonna, whose jars of sour brilliance developed her taste buds from an early age. Her goal is to spread the love for fermented food and drink, demystify fermentation and show you how easy it is to preserve seasonal, local produce and how to use it in your everyday cooking.

Brushmaking with Ellie Birkhead

Brushmaking and exploring connections to place.

Traditional crafts have always been rooted to a place. From the potteries of Stoke-on-Trent to the scissor makers of Sheffield: landscape, ecology, resources and people have always been the catalyst for craft and industries to flourish. Today many of us have lost this deep connection to place; to the people that surround us and the connection to the materials that make up our local ecosystems.

Through the lens of brushmaking we will explore these fraying connections, exploring how making can root us in the environment and allow the objects we create to speak of the land we inhabit.

During this workshop Ellie will pass on the skills learnt from one of England’s last brushmakers for you to make your very own brushes for the home. Immersing yourself into the seasonal landscape of Hawarden Estate you’ll be given the chance to forage for fibres and connect craft and place.

Ellie will teach an age old brush binding technique before giving you the opportunity to get creative with making your own designs. You will be introduced to the pillar drill and learn simple woodworking techniques to be able to craft your own handle, as well as having the chance to experiment with a mixture of bristle materials, from waste fishing nets to plant fibres.

All materials are included, as is a wonderful, simple lunch for Hawarden Estate Farm Shop. The workshops will take place within our warm and light-filled Conservatory space. You do not need any prior skills to attend this class!

£100 PER PERSON

About Ellie

Ellie Birkhead is a designer, maker and facilitator who uses the power of craft and creativity to bring about social change. Ellie is passionate about passing on hand skills to people of all ages to build confidence and a deeper understanding and appreciation for natural materials and crafted objects.

Ellie’s broad background in making spans from creating props for film and tv, designing for the luxury craft sector, through to facilitating family workshops - but the thread that runs through it all is a love for making, for conversation and connection across the workbench, and a desire to be surrounded by beautifully made objects.

Life Drawing with HOP

This is a relaxed session with no expectation, prior skill or knowledge required.

Over the course of two hours, we will practise with a series of poses ranging from 1 minute to 15 minutes with professional models (all nude). Lisa, our host, will run playful drawing prompts for the first few poses to ease everyone into the session.

These sessions are creative, fun and aim to inspire you to continue sketching long after you’ve left The Walled Garden.

The evening will take place within our beautiful, and warm, Conservatory space.

£30 PER PERSON

About Lisa Payne (AKA HOP)

Lisa (Marie Payne) is an artist working in print, painting and drawing. She set up Life Drawing with HOP in Levenshulme, Manchester in 2019, with the aim is to provide creative, mindful and relaxing experiences whilst connecting like-minded people.

“I wholeheartedly believe this is something everyone needs more of.”

Yoga: Flexibility and Flow with Emma Garland

Friday 6th February
9:45am-2:00pm
Lunch, snacks and unlimited tea and coffee included.

Releasing Tension, Embracing Ease

Do you ever feel tight and stiff, or even just stuck in your own body? Modern life often creates patterns of tightness and tension, limiting our natural range of motion. This workshop is an invitation to unwind. We'll gently guide our bodies through fluid movements and stretches, helping to release held tension and restore natural flexibility. Discover the liberating feeling of ease and flow, allowing your body to move more freely and your mind to find a state of calm. Reconnect with your innate grace and natural rhythm.

As your guide, Emma Garland AKA The Good Food Yogi, puts it:

“This workshop session is suitable for everyone, including beginners; with guided instructions and techniques to help you switch on some of those smaller, underused muscles within the body and start to ease some of the muscular pain you may experience, particularly around those tighter areas of the body, like neck and shoulders, back, hamstrings, hips and belly.

We will work with the breath and provide a deeper feeling of engagement and resistance within your body to build heat and strength in the body without necessarily moving fast.

Time spent outdoors in nature can be a great way to boost the mind and body, as well as the nervous and immune system. Experiencing natural sunlight can also boost your mood and productivity!

Join us for a day away in the magical space that is The Walled Garden School, surrounded by nature in ancient woodland, this space will take you a world away from it all.”

All equipment, food and drink throughout the day is provided.

£45 per person

Timings

9:45am: Meet, greet, walk and breathe through The Walled Garden.

In this restorative day for yourself, and maybe friends or loved ones, we’ll start the day with a hot drink before heading off for a walk around the beautiful Walled Garden. We’ll take this walk up to the Old Castle, where we’ll enjoy some various breathwork techniques, designed to warm us up from the outside in; whilst enjoying the breathtaking rural views from the top of the hill. We’ll talk positively about how nature helps us reconnect.

11:30am: Move, breathe and flow.

We’ll head back to roll out our yoga mats indoors in the new Conservatory at The Walled Garden School whilst still feeling connected with the natural world. We’ll enjoy flowing movement to expand our bodies and hearts. When we expand and open our chest, understand our bodies and the impact of tension held around typically tighter areas; here we can fully feel our inner power within. Our posture is greatly improved and we can allow ourselves to feel the finer muscles within our bodies that may need to be awakened. We’ll then sink into some relaxation before heading for a well deserved lunch.

1pm: Refuel

Lunch from the award-winning Hawarden Estate Farm Shop is included. We’ll round up our restorative day with a hearty, warming lunch to fuel our bodies and minds and chat with like-minded new friends.

2pm: Time to say goodbye

All equipment, food and drink throughout the day is provided.

Valentine’s Night by Candlelight

A specially curated Valentine’s Menu by our Head Chef Adam Williams, this night is set to be super special and designed for a truly romantic evening. Join us on Saturday 14th February at The Glynne Arms from 5pm.

Event is for 18+. Please book your table below.

Stone Axe Making

Monday 16th February
10am - 12pm
Best for ages 5+
Tickets include a snack and apple juice from Hawarden Estate Farm Shop.

Join us for a hands-on workshop where young makers step into the world of ancient craftsmanship.

Using natural materials -hazel for the handle, slate for the blade, and sisal for binding- children will shape their own “stone axe” from start to finish. They’ll learn how to grind and form their slate blade, fit and secure it to a hazel haft, and understand the strengths and stories behind each material.

Along the way, we’ll explore the history of early tools and how axes evolved through the ages. Set against the fantastic backdrop of the Hawarden Estate, this workshop blends creativity, skill-building, and a touch of prehistory in a memorable outdoor experience.

Children will leave with the stone axe they have crafted.

£40 PER PERSON

About Axe & Paddle

Steven Le Say is a passionate instructor and founder of Axe & Paddle, where he teaches traditional and ancestral outdoor skills through hands-on, confidence-building experiences. Known for his calm guidance and deep respect for natural materials, Steven specialises in heritage crafts such as primitive tool making, green-woodworking, firecraft, and hosted expeditions and courses across Europe which put these skills into practice.

Hazel Bow Making

Monday 16th February
1pm - 3pm
Best for ages 5+
Tickets include a snack and apple juice from Hawarden Estate Farm Shop.

Step into the world of traditional woodland craft with this child-friendly Hazel Bow Making workshop.

Young archers will learn how to select the best hazel, then bend (or 'tiller'), shape, and refine it while paying close attention to the natural qualities that make a bow strong and flexible. Children will practise a couple of simple, reliable knots and string their handmade bows with sisal, preparing them for the final flourish: a fun round of target shooting to test their creations.

It’s a lively mix of hands-on making, outdoor learning, and gentle adventure amid the beautiful surroundings of Hawarden Estate.

Children will leave with the hazel bow they have crafted.

£40 PER PERSON

About Axe & Paddle

Steven Le Say is a passionate instructor and founder of Axe & Paddle, where he teaches traditional and ancestral outdoor skills through hands-on, confidence-building experiences. Known for his calm guidance and deep respect for natural materials, Steven specialises in heritage crafts such as primitive tool making, green-woodworking, firecraft, and hosted expeditions and courses across Europe which put these skills into practice.

How to Build a Bird Feeder

Tuesday 17th February
9:45am - 12:30pm
Best for ages 8-12 years!
Tickets include a snack, hot chocolate and marshmallows from Hawarden Estate Farm Shop.

Make your own bird feeder for the garden, helping the garden birds stay full of energy for the winter months.

Children will use a variety of skills, using tools such as saws and screwdrivers. Rooted in Forest School principles, the workshop encourages child-led exploration, practical skill-building, and a deeper connection with local wildlife.

Once you’ve created your bird feeder, we’ll gather around the campfire for a well-deserved hot chocolate and marshmallow!

Alongside you, your child will:

• Learn safe use of simple hand tools (saw, hammer, sandpaper).

• Understand the needs of local birds and how feeders support wildlife.

• Explore creativity using natural materials.

• Build resilience through hands-on, risk-managed challenges.

• Strengthen teamwork, communication, and independence.

• Foster a sense of environmental stewardship.

• Have fun!

Children will come away with a bird feeder and the plans to make more in the future.

£35 PER PERSON

About Ffion Hughes

Ffion has led the super-popular Explorer Club sessions at Hawarden Estate Farm Shop for the past few years. She is a qualified Forest Leader, and is a “huge believer in everyone having the opportunity to explore nature and reconnect with their roots in the earth and aim to foster that connection through experiences and opportunities.”

Kimchi Fermentation Masterclass with The Plucky Pickle

Saturday 21st February
10:30am - 2pm
Lunch and unlimited tea and coffee included.

Delve into the wonders of kimchi and fermentation with a true expert.

Together with Jules Goddard AKA The Plucky Pickle you will discover:

• What fermentation is.

• How to not be afraid of fermenting.

• How easy it is!

• The importance of microbes on our plates.

Jules will share her knowledge of different types of fermentation and we will delve into how to make your own kimchi ending with you creating some for you to take home with you.

We will have tasters to try and share and you can explore the wonderful textures and flavours fermentation brings.

“Come meet the microbes, have some hands-on fun and learn how to make your own seasonal ferment confidently and safely!”

£60 PER PERSON

About The Plucky Pickle

Jules Goddard, aka The Plucky Pickle, has been fermenting and preserving for over 30 years and has taught well over 1,000 people at her events. After a career in hosting renewable energy conferences and global events for companies such as Informa and Thomson Reuters, Jules turned her passion for fermenting into a small business in Manchester, producing ferments for delis/restaurants and teaching masterclasses to the public and hospitality industry.

Jules is also CCO of The Fermenters Guild in the UK and Ireland, an association focused on supporting professionals who work with fermentation.

Her inspiration will always be her Italian nonna, whose jars of sour brilliance developed her taste buds from an early age. Her goal is to spread the love for fermented food and drink, demystify fermentation and show you how easy it is to preserve seasonal, local produce and how to use it in your everyday cooking.

Life Drawing with HOP

This is a relaxed session with no expectation, prior skill or knowledge required.

Over the course of two hours, we will practise with a series of poses ranging from 1 minute to 15 minutes with professional models (all nude). Lisa, our host, will run playful drawing prompts for the first few poses to ease everyone into the session.

These sessions are creative, fun and aim to inspire you to continue sketching long after you’ve left The Walled Garden.

The evening will take place within our beautiful, and warm, Conservatory space.

£30 PER PERSON

About Lisa Payne (AKA HOP)

Lisa (Marie Payne) is an artist working in print, painting and drawing. She set up Life Drawing with HOP in Levenshulme, Manchester in 2019, with the aim is to provide creative, mindful and relaxing experiences whilst connecting like-minded people.

“I wholeheartedly believe this is something everyone needs more of.”

Live Fire Cooking Workshop with Paul Ives (Hampshire BBQ)

Saturday 14th March
10am - 3pm

Unlimited tea and coffee included throughout, plus a snack from Hawarden Estate Farm Shop.

Over the course of this masterclass, you will learn how to make five delicious dishes alongside key, basic techniques to give you confidence in cooking over fire.

Throughout the day you will prepare and cook:

• Garlic & chilli tiger prawns with sourdough.

• Plank smoked Chalk Stream trout with asparagus and a charred red pepper salsa.

• Fire roasted half chicken, smoked potato salad, grilled lettuce.

• Bavette Steak, chimichurri, grilled padron peppers.

• Asian pork belly burnt ends with pickled asian slaw.

You’ll eat what you cook as you progress through the day!

This masterclass is perfect for all foodies, cooks and barbecue lovers. It will take place inside and outside, mostly within our warm and light-filled Conservatory space.

£145 per person.

Timings

10am: Arrive, introductions, tea and coffee

10am-3pm: Rolling workshops with Paul.

3pm: Say goodbye

About Paul Ives (AKA Hampshire BBQ):

Paul is a UK ambassador for Big Green Egg and a chef who lives for cooking outdoors. You’ll usually find him in his BBQ shack, fine-tuning recipes, tending the flames, and serving up big, bold flavours to anyone who turns up hungry.

He hosts cooking classes across the UK, where he teaches people how to get the most out of their barbecues, showing just how versatile, robust and downright fun outdoor cooking can be. Paul keeps things relaxed, hands-on, and always centred around proper food cooked the right way... over fire.

LifeForce Qigong with Ben Calder

Sunday 15th March
9:40am-4pm

Lunch, snacks and unlimited tea and coffee included.

Seasonal Qigong Retreat: Aligning with the Energy of Spring

Join us for a nourishing day of LifeForce Qigong in the tranquil surroundings of The Walled Garden School at Hawarden Estate, in a space dedicated to growth, connection, and holistic well-being. This event marks the first in a series of Five Element retreat days, each attuned to the rhythms of nature, offering a powerful way to harmonise the body, mind, and spirit with the shifting seasons.

As spring awakens, we embrace the energy of the Wood Element, associated with growth, renewal, and the fortification of Liver energy. This is a time of expansion, creativity, and clearing away stagnation, both physically and emotionally. Through mindful movement, breathwork, and meditation, we will explore practices that help release frustration, ease tension, and cultivate a sense of flow and vitality.

Jing (Essence & Physical Vitality). What to expect from the morning session:

• Gentle joint-opening exercises to awaken and energise the body.

• Foundation LifeForce Qigong movements to build strength and resilience.

• Microcosmic Orbit breathing to cultivate inner harmony.

• Patting and dredging techniques to clear and invigorate energy pathways.

Qi (Emotional Flow & Elemental Integration). What to expect from the afternoon session:

• Deep energetic work with the Five Element organs.

• Focus on Liver energy to support emotional balance and clarity.

• Seasonal meditations to align with spring’s expansive energy.

• Practices to integrate and regulate the Qi for lasting well-being.

A delicious light lunch from Hawarden Estate Farm Shop will be served, utilising fresh, seasonal ingredients to nourish the body and support our practice.

This day is open to all. No experience necessary, just a willingness to move, breathe, and be present.

What to bring: Wear comfortable, layered clothing to accommodate temperature changes

What you will take away: Reconnect with yourself, the season, and the energy of nature in this unique seasonal Qigong retreat day.

All equipment, food and and drink throughout the day is provided.

This workshop will be hosted within our brand new and beautiful Conservatory space.

£70 per person.

Timings

9:40am: Meet, greet and information about the day within The Conservatory

10am: Welcome and workshop begins

12:30pm: Break for lunch, from Hawarden Estate Farm Shop

1:30pm: Sessions resume

4pm: Time to say goodbye

About Ben Calder:

With over 22 years of experience in holistic health, Ben Calder is dedicated to helping others restore balance and vitality through his Integral approach to health and LifeForce Qigong. His work with LifeForce Qigong integrates movement, breath, and awareness to enhance energy flow, improve resilience, and reconnect with the body's natural rhythms. He believes in the power of Qigong to unlock stored tension, strengthen the mind-body connection, and cultivate long-term well-being.

Ben has practiced Qigong for 35 years, working with diverse communities, participated in health projects, and shared his knowledge at events across the UK. Passionate about empowering individuals to take charge of their health, Ben offers practical, effective tools to help you move with ease, feel more aligned, and embrace a life of balance and vitality.

Kombucha Masterclass with The Plucky Pickle

Saturday 28th March
10:30am - 2pm
Lunch and unlimited tea and coffee included.

Fizz Up! Learn how to make Kombucha with The Plucky Pickle.

Together with Jules Goddard AKA The Plucky Pickle you will discover:

• The magic of fermentation

• How to make a wild fermented Kombucha.

• New flavours during a tasting session of fermented foods and drinks.

You will leave this masterclass with two of your own fermented kombuchas!

£60 PER PERSON

About The Plucky Pickle

Jules Goddard, aka The Plucky Pickle, has been fermenting and preserving for over 30 years and has taught well over 1,000 people at her events. After a career in hosting renewable energy conferences and global events for companies such as Informa and Thomson Reuters, Jules turned her passion for fermenting into a small business in Manchester, producing ferments for delis/restaurants and teaching masterclasses to the public and hospitality industry.

Jules is also CCO of The Fermenters Guild in the UK and Ireland, an association focused on supporting professionals who work with fermentation.

Her inspiration will always be her Italian nonna, whose jars of sour brilliance developed her taste buds from an early age. Her goal is to spread the love for fermented food and drink, demystify fermentation and show you how easy it is to preserve seasonal, local produce and how to use it in your everyday cooking.

How to Build a Bird House

Tuesday 7th April
9:45am - 12:30pm
Best for ages 8-12 years!
Tickets include a snack, hot chocolate and marshmallows from Hawarden Estate Farm Shop.

We’ll start with a birdwatching activity in the Walled Garden, using our binoculars to spot birds in the area. Then, measure, cut, construct, and decorate your birdhouse, learning about bird habitats and how to support garden wildlife.

Alongside the main activity, we’ll enjoy time around the fire with hot chocolate and toasted marshmallows, relaxing after a busy morning!

Alongside you, your child will:

• Gain confidence using hand tools (saws, hammers, sandpaper).

• Learn about the nesting needs of local birds and how birdhouses support wildlife.

• Express creativity through natural materials and decoration.

• Build resilience and independence through risk-managed, hands-on tasks.

• Strengthen collaboration, communication, and problem-solving skills.

• Foster a deeper connection to nature and environmental care.

• Have fun!

Children will come away with a bird house and the plans to make more in the future.

£35 PER PERSON

About Ffion Hughes

Ffion has led the super-popular Explorer Club sessions at Hawarden Estate Farm Shop for the past few years. She is a qualified Forest Leader, and is a “huge believer in everyone having the opportunity to explore nature and reconnect with their roots in the earth and aim to foster that connection through experiences and opportunities.”

Cold Water Wild Swimming & Sauna with Sheena Corry

Saturday 9th May
9:45am - 12pm & 12:45pm - 3pm
Snacks and unlimited tea and coffee included.

This is a very special session suitable for swimmers who are confident to swim 500 meters continuously in open water.

This could be breast stroke or front crawl. Come and experience the magic of the lake on Hawarden Estate, and feel the benefits of cold water therapy. You’ll be guided through the whole experience starting with a walk through the stunning Walled Garden to the lake, where you’ll learn tips and techniques from our wild swimming expert, Sheena. She will guide you through the experience, which includes breathwork and mindfulness.

Following the session, there will be a sauna session giving you some time to reflect on your cold-water therapy.

Suitability and availability

• Suitable for all seasoned cold-water swimmers.

• Wetsuits are required for this session as we will be spending more time in the water.

• Session length: 60-90 minutes on the water with 30 minutes land-based instruction.

• Not suitable for children.

£50 PER PERSON

Your ticket includes a snack from Hawarden Estate Farm Shop, plus unlimited tea and coffee.

You will learn:

A variety of new skills. You will feel motivated as you start to build better and healthier habits. Sheena is an expert in cold water therapy and you will come away with a wealth of new knowledge.

To create a connection with practising wellness in the great outdoors.

To embrace the seasons, working with them and not against them.

To feel emotionally and physically boosted and to learn the benefits of cold water swimming. You will feel inspired through movement and knowledge.

Cold water therapy is known for lowering stress and blood pressure. It also boosts your circulation and detoxes your body, as well as giving you a clearer skin complexion. It’s immune boosting, too.

LifeForce Qigong with Ben Calder

Sunday 31st May
9:40am-4pm

Lunch, snacks and unlimited tea and coffee included.

LifeForce Qigong Summer Retreat Day: Embracing the Fire Element Spirit

Join us for a nourishing day of mindful movement in the serene surroundings of The Walled Garden, North Wales, part of Hawarden Estate. This retreat is part of a 5-Element seasonal series, helping us attune to the natural rhythms of life and align with the changing energy of the seasons.

This summer, we embrace the Fire Element, strengthening Heart energy and releasing arrogance and jealousy, allowing us to cultivate love, joy, and deeper emotional harmony. Whether you're a seasoned practitioner or new to Qigong (pronounced Chee Gong), this day offers valuable tools for balance, vitality, and self-discovery.

Jing (Essence & Physical Vitality). What to expect from the morning session:

• Gentle joint-opening exercises to awaken and energise the body.

• Foundation LifeForce Qigong movements to build strength and resilience.

• Microcosmic Orbit breathing to cultivate inner harmony.

• Patting and dredging techniques to clear and invigorate energy pathways.

Qi (Emotional Flow & Elemental Integration). What to expect from the afternoon session:

• Fire Element Spirit practice to nurture Heart energy.

• Five Element organ activation - awaken and align all 5 elements.

• Guided meditations for emotional healing and integration.

• Outdoor practice (weather permitting) to connect with nature.

A delicious light lunch from Hawarden Estate Farm Shop will be served, utilising fresh, seasonal ingredients to nourish the body and support our practice.

This day is open to all. No experience necessary, just a willingness to move, breathe, and be present.

What to bring: Wear comfortable, layered clothing to accommodate temperature changes

What you will take away: Reconnect with yourself, the season, and the energy of nature in this unique seasonal Qigong retreat day.

All equipment, food and and drink throughout the day is provided.

This workshop will be hosted within our brand new and beautiful Conservatory space.

£70 per person.

Timings

9:40am: Meet, greet and information about the day within The Conservatory

10am: Welcome and workshop begins

12:30pm: Break for lunch, from Hawarden Estate Farm Shop

1:30pm: Sessions resume

4pm: Time to say goodbye

About Ben Calder:

With over 22 years of experience in holistic health, Ben Calder is dedicated to helping others restore balance and vitality through his Integral approach to health and LifeForce Qigong. His work with LifeForce Qigong integrates movement, breath, and awareness to enhance energy flow, improve resilience, and reconnect with the body's natural rhythms. He believes in the power of Qigong to unlock stored tension, strengthen the mind-body connection, and cultivate long-term well-being.

Ben has practiced Qigong for 35 years, working with diverse communities, participated in health projects, and shared his knowledge at events across the UK. Passionate about empowering individuals to take charge of their health, Ben offers practical, effective tools to help you move with ease, feel more aligned, and embrace a life of balance and vitality.

Beginner's Guide to Cold Water Wild Swimming & Sauna with Sheena Corry

Saturday 4th July
9:45am - 12pm & 12:45pm - 3pm
Snacks and unlimited tea and coffee included.

This is a very special session suitable for swimmers who are complete beginners, who have never tried open water swimming before.

If you are a novice or nervous swimmer this session is for you. Come and experience the magic of the lake on Hawarden Estate, and feel the benefits of cold water therapy. You’ll be guided through the whole experience starting with a walk through the stunning Walled Garden to the lake, where you’ll learn tips and techniques from our wild swimming expert, Sheena. She will guide you through the experience, which includes breathwork and mindfulness.

Following the session, there will be a sauna session giving you some time to reflect on your cold-water therapy.

Suitability and availability

• Suitable for all swimmers! No cold water/open water experience necessary.

• Wetsuits are available to hire but not compulsory.

• Session length: 30 minutes in the water with the rest of the 2 hour session being instructed by Sheena and in our beautiful sauna.

• Not suitable for children.

£50 PER PERSON

You will learn:

A variety of new skills. You will feel motivated as you start to build better and healthier habits. Sheena is an expert in cold water therapy and you will come away with a wealth of new knowledge.

To create a connection with practising wellness in the great outdoors.

To embrace the seasons, working with them and not against them.

To feel emotionally and physically boosted and to learn the benefits of cold water swimming. You will feel inspired through movement and knowledge.

Cold water therapy is known for lowering stress and blood pressure. It also boosts your circulation and detoxes your body, as well as giving you a clearer skin complexion. It’s immune boosting, too.

How to Build a Bug Hotel

Tuesday 28th July
9:45am - 12:30pm
Best for ages 8-12 years!
Tickets include a snack, hot chocolate and marshmallows from Hawarden Estate Farm Shop.

We’ll start with a bug hunt in the Walled Garden, discovering bugs and learning what we might find in our local ecosystem. Then, you’ll build your own bug house using natural, foraged, and recycled materials.

Saw, sand, and assemble your bug house, fill it with nature-found materials, and learn about the importance of insects in local ecosystems. We’ll then gather around the campfire to finish up our workshop with hot chocolate in the Walled Garden.

Alongside you, your child will:

• Understand why insects are essential for garden health and biodiversity.

• Learn how to create safe habitats for different types of bugs.

• Build creativity through natural design and material use.

• Strengthen problem-solving, teamwork, and independence.

• Deepen our connection to the natural world and learn to appreciate smaller wildlife.

• Have fun!

Children will come away with a bug hotel and the plans to make more in the future.

£35 PER PERSON

About Ffion Hughes

Ffion has led the super-popular Explorer Club sessions at Hawarden Estate Farm Shop for the past few years. She is a qualified Forest Leader, and is a “huge believer in everyone having the opportunity to explore nature and reconnect with their roots in the earth and aim to foster that connection through experiences and opportunities.”

LifeForce Qigong with Ben Calder

Sunday 2nd August
9:40am-4pm

Lunch, snacks and unlimited tea and coffee included.

LifeForce Qigong late Summer Retreat Day: Embracing the Earth Element Spirit

Join us for a nourishing day of mindful movement in the serene surroundings of The Walled Garden, North Wales, part of Hawarden Estate. This retreat is part of a 5-Element seasonal series, helping us attune to the natural rhythms of life and align with the changing energy of the seasons.

This summer, we embrace the Fire Element, strengthening Heart energy and releasing arrogance and jealousy, allowing us to cultivate love, joy, and deeper emotional harmony. Whether you're a seasoned practitioner or new to Qigong (pronounced Chee Gong), this day offers valuable tools for balance, vitality, and self-discovery.

Jing (Essence & Physical Vitality). What to expect from the morning session:

• Gentle joint-opening & spine-loosening exercises. Feel your physical heart.

• Foundational LifeForce Qigong alignment and movements to strengthen and energise.

• Embryonic breathing for internal peace, balance and energy cultivation.

• Patting and dredging techniques to invigorate energy pathways.

Qi (Emotional Flow & Elemental Integration). What to expect from the afternoon session:

• Fire Element Spirit practice to nurture Heart energy.

• Five Element organ activation - awaken and align all five elements.

• Guided meditations for emotional healing and integration.

• Outdoor practice (weather permitting) to connect with nature.

A delicious light lunch from Hawarden Estate Farm Shop will be served, utilising fresh, seasonal ingredients to nourish the body and support our practice.

This day is open to all. No experience necessary, just a willingness to move, breathe, and be present.

What to bring: Wear comfortable, layered clothing to accommodate temperature changes

What you will take away: Reconnect with yourself, the season, and the energy of nature in this unique seasonal Qigong retreat day.

All equipment, food and and drink throughout the day is provided.

This workshop will be hosted within our brand new and beautiful Conservatory space.

£70 per person.

Timings

9:40am: Meet, greet and information about the day within The Conservatory

10am: Welcome and workshop begins

12:30pm: Break for lunch, from Hawarden Estate Farm Shop

1:30pm: Sessions resume

4pm: Time to say goodbye

About Ben Calder:

With over 22 years of experience in holistic health, Ben Calder is dedicated to helping others restore balance and vitality through his Integral approach to health and LifeForce Qigong. His work with LifeForce Qigong integrates movement, breath, and awareness to enhance energy flow, improve resilience, and reconnect with the body's natural rhythms. He believes in the power of Qigong to unlock stored tension, strengthen the mind-body connection, and cultivate long-term well-being.

Ben has practiced Qigong for 35 years, working with diverse communities, participated in health projects, and shared his knowledge at events across the UK. Passionate about empowering individuals to take charge of their health, Ben offers practical, effective tools to help you move with ease, feel more aligned, and embrace a life of balance and vitality.

Silent Cold Water Wild Swimming & Sauna with Sheena Corry

Saturday 29th August
9:45am - 12pm & 12:45pm - 3pm
Snacks and unlimited tea and coffee included.

This is a very special session suitable for anyone who is interested in the mindful aspect of wild swimming.

We will be practising meditative practices in the water so you will need to be a confident swimmer. Come and experience the magic of the lake on Hawarden Estate, and feel the benefits of cold water therapy. You’ll be guided through the whole experience starting with a walk through the stunning Walled Garden to the lake, where you’ll learn tips and techniques from our wild swimming expert, Sheena. She will guide you through the experience, which includes breathwork and mindfulness.

Following the session, there will be a sauna session giving you some time to reflect on your cold-water therapy.

Suitability and availability

• Suitable for all seasoned cold-water swimmers.

• Wetsuits are available to hire but not compulsory.

• Session length: 30 minutes in the water with the rest of the 2 hour session being instructed by Sheena and in our beautiful sauna.

• Not suitable for children.

£50 PER PERSON

You will learn:

A variety of new skills. You will feel motivated as you start to build better and healthier habits. Sheena is an expert in cold water therapy and you will come away with a wealth of new knowledge.

To create a connection with practising wellness in the great outdoors.

To embrace the seasons, working with them and not against them.

To feel emotionally and physically boosted and to learn the benefits of cold water swimming. You will feel inspired through movement and knowledge.

Cold water therapy is known for lowering stress and blood pressure. It also boosts your circulation and detoxes your body, as well as giving you a clearer skin complexion. It’s immune boosting, too.

LifeForce Qigong with Ben Calder

Sunday 11th October
9:40am-4pm

Lunch, snacks and unlimited tea and coffee included.

Join us for the next in a year-long series of Five Element retreat days, gentle, grounding experiences rooted in the ancient wisdom of the seasons and designed to nourish body, mind, and spirit. In the quiet turning of early autumn, we explore the Metal Element, the energy of breath, letting go, and refinement.

Through the lens of LifeForce Qigong, this retreat offers a soulful invitation to clear, centre, and reconnect. You’ll be guided through two distinct yet complementary sessions.

Jing (Essence & Physical Vitality). What to expect from the morning session:

• Gentle joint-opening & spine-loosening exercises. Feel your physical heart.

• Foundational LifeForce Qigong alignment and movements to strengthen and energise.

• Embryonic breathing for internal peace, balance and energy cultivation.

• Patting and dredging techniques to invigorate energy pathways.

Qi (Emotional Flow & Elemental Integration). What to expect from the afternoon session:

• Fire Element Spirit practice to nurture Metal and Lung energy.

• Five Element organ activation - awaken and align all five elements.

• Guided meditations for emotional healing and integration.

• Outdoor practice (weather permitting) to connect with nature.

A delicious light lunch from Hawarden Estate Farm Shop will be served, utilising fresh, seasonal ingredients to nourish the body and support our practice.

This day is open to all. No experience necessary, just a willingness to move, breathe, and be present.

What to bring: Wear comfortable, layered clothing to accommodate temperature changes

What you will take away: Reconnect with yourself, the season, and the energy of nature in this unique seasonal Qigong retreat day.

All equipment, food and and drink throughout the day is provided.

This workshop will be hosted within our brand new and beautiful Conservatory space.

£70 per person.

Timings

9:40am: Meet, greet and information about the day within The Conservatory

10am: Welcome and workshop begins

12:30pm: Break for lunch, from Hawarden Estate Farm Shop

1:30pm: Sessions resume

4pm: Time to say goodbye

About Ben Calder:

With over 22 years of experience in holistic health, Ben Calder is dedicated to helping others restore balance and vitality through his Integral approach to health and LifeForce Qigong. His work with LifeForce Qigong integrates movement, breath, and awareness to enhance energy flow, improve resilience, and reconnect with the body's natural rhythms. He believes in the power of Qigong to unlock stored tension, strengthen the mind-body connection, and cultivate long-term well-being.

Ben has practiced Qigong for 35 years, working with diverse communities, participated in health projects, and shared his knowledge at events across the UK. Passionate about empowering individuals to take charge of their health, Ben offers practical, effective tools to help you move with ease, feel more aligned, and embrace a life of balance and vitality.

How to Build a Bat Box

Tuesday 27th October
9:45am - 12:30pm
Best for ages 8-12 years!
Tickets include a snack, hot chocolate and marshmallows from Hawarden Estate Farm Shop.

We’ll collaboratively build bat boxes to place in the walled garden, and to take home, learning about bat habitats and raising environmental awareness.

Refine your woodworking skills, use tools, and enjoy working together to build these homes before gathering around the campfire for a hot chocolate.

During the workshop, we will:

• Develop confidence using hand tools (saw, hammer, sandpaper).

• Learn about the needs and behaviours of local bat species.

• Understand how bat boxes support declining bat populations.

• Build resilience, independence, and problem-solving through risk-managed activities.

• Get creative with natural materials and gentle decoration.

• Strengthen teamwork, communication, and awareness of wildlife conservation.

Children will come away with a bat house and the plans to make more in the future.

£35 PER PERSON

About Ffion Hughes

Ffion has led the super-popular Explorer Club sessions at Hawarden Estate Farm Shop for the past few years. She is a qualified Forest Leader, and is a “huge believer in everyone having the opportunity to explore nature and reconnect with their roots in the earth and aim to foster that connection through experiences and opportunities.”

LifeForce Qigong with Ben Calder

Sunday 6th December
9:40am-4pm

Lunch, snacks and unlimited tea and coffee included.

A Winter Retreat of Rest, Renewal & Resilience, Honouring the Water Element

As the year draws inward and the stillness of winter settles in, join us for the final gathering in a seasonal series of Five Element retreats. These nourishing, mindful days offer space to move, breathe, and reconnect in rhythm with the turning year and the energy of the elements.

Our focus for this final retreat is the Water Element — the deep reservoir of life-force, rest, and wisdom. In traditional practice, this element relates to the kidneys, and the gentle cultivation of resilience in the face of fear, anxiety, and exhaustion.

Jing (Essence & Physical Vitality). What to expect from the morning session:

• Gentle joint-opening & spine-loosening exercises. Feel your physical heart.

• Foundational LifeForce Qigong alignment and movements to strengthen and energise.

• Embryonic breathing for internal peace, balance and energy cultivation.

• Patting and dredging techniques to invigorate energy pathways.

Qi (Emotional Flow & Elemental Integration). What to expect from the afternoon session:

• The energetic body, working with the Five Element organs and taking time to focus on the Water Element.

• Five Element organ activation - awaken and align all five elements.

• Guided meditations for emotional healing and integration.

• Outdoor practice (weather permitting) to connect with nature.

A delicious light lunch from Hawarden Estate Farm Shop will be served, utilising fresh, seasonal ingredients to nourish the body and support our practice.

This day is open to all. No experience necessary, just a willingness to move, breathe, and be present.

What to bring: Wear comfortable, layered clothing to accommodate temperature changes

What you will take away: Reconnect with yourself, the season, and the energy of nature in this unique seasonal Qigong retreat day.

All equipment, food and and drink throughout the day is provided.

This workshop will be hosted within our brand new and beautiful Conservatory space.

£70 per person.

Timings

9:40am: Meet, greet and information about the day within The Conservatory

10am: Welcome and workshop begins

12:30pm: Break for lunch, from Hawarden Estate Farm Shop

1:30pm: Sessions resume

4pm: Time to say goodbye

About Ben Calder:

With over 22 years of experience in holistic health, Ben Calder is dedicated to helping others restore balance and vitality through his Integral approach to health and LifeForce Qigong. His work with LifeForce Qigong integrates movement, breath, and awareness to enhance energy flow, improve resilience, and reconnect with the body's natural rhythms. He believes in the power of Qigong to unlock stored tension, strengthen the mind-body connection, and cultivate long-term well-being.

Ben has practiced Qigong for 35 years, working with diverse communities, participated in health projects, and shared his knowledge at events across the UK. Passionate about empowering individuals to take charge of their health, Ben offers practical, effective tools to help you move with ease, feel more aligned, and embrace a life of balance and vitality.

How to Build a Reindeer Log

Monday 21st December
9:45am - 12:30pm
Best for ages 8-12 years!
Tickets include a snack, hot chocolate and marshmallows from Hawarden Estate Farm Shop.

Get into the Christmas Spirit by building your own Reindeer Log decoration.

We will saw, drill, and assemble our reindeer using logs, branches, and foraged items, finishing with natural decoration. Once finished, we’ll gather round the campfire for a festive hot chocolate and marshmallow, finishing off with a Christmas singalong.

Alongside you, your child will:

• Build confidence using basic hand tools (saws, mallets, hammers, drills).

• Learn how to safely work with logs and natural materials.

• Explore creativity through design, decoration, and natural crafting.

• Develop problem-solving and fine motor skills through construction tasks.

• Build on teamwork, reflection, and outdoor play.

• Have fun!

Children will come away with a reindeer log and the plans to make more in the future.

£35 PER PERSON

About Ffion Hughes

Ffion has led the super-popular Explorer Club sessions at Hawarden Estate Farm Shop for the past few years. She is a qualified Forest Leader, and is a “huge believer in everyone having the opportunity to explore nature and reconnect with their roots in the earth and aim to foster that connection through experiences and opportunities.”