Toolerstone

Herb Planter Workshop with wood fire pizza lunch
2023-06-29 10:00 - 14:30 (Europe/London) | Toolerstone House, Norley Road, Sandiway, Cheshire, CW8 2JN, United Kingdom
Have you always wondered how to grow your own herbs? Join our Head Gardener, Simon, to learn how to grow herbs from seed so you can use them in your cooking, as garnishes or simply bring a touch of the great outdoors into your kitchen. You can choose from a variety of seeds we have including basil, mint, coriander and chives – sew them in the planter / pots provided and take them home and watch them grow!
In small groups of no more than 8 you can work at your own pace and enjoy the relaxed and friendly atmosphere and (hopefully) the sunshine in the @:Toolerstone gardens. We will provide the Toolerstone treats, wood fire pizzas and endless cups of tea.
A bit more detail …
During your time with us you will learn about different herbs, potting composts and how to care for your seeds as they grow. You will spend time in our kitchen garden, teaching greenhouse and cosy chalet style Brew Shed.
Throughout the day you will cover many aspects of planting herbs including:

Types of containers, choosing herbs that will grow well together and how to care for them
Growing media you can mix yourself, and what suits your plant choices
Drainage, feeding, and other maintenance tasks to ensure your herbs grow, thrive and last

About the tutor
Simon has been the Head Gardener at Toolerstone since December 2012. Previously, he was an estate gardener looking after the grounds and gardens for a large country estate. Simon has always had a passion for gardens, planting and the outdoors . During his twenties he decided to take that interest to the next level and enrolled at college to study Horticulture and Garden Design at RHS level 2. Simon has run his own gardening business and has a passion for teaching. We are thrilled to have Simon on board with us here @:Toolerstone sharing his knowledge and expertise. He also knows a thing or two about cider making, laying a patio and building a fire!

Timetable of the day
10:00 A warm welcome to @:Toolerstone with refreshments and toasted teacakes10:30 Introduction to growing herbs from seed in the Brew Shed11:00 Compost & preparing your pots for your seeds in the @:Toolerstone Teaching Green House11:30 Coffee will be served11:45 Continue with the workshop and work at your own pace13:00 Garden tour with Simon.13:30. Delicious homemade wood fire pizzas served in the Kitchen Garden14:30 Workshop ends & your herb planter is yours to take home
What is included?

Planter / pots for your herbs
All materials, plants & tools
Aprons are provided for the day
Refreshments & a delicious lunch

What do I need to bring?
It is advised that you wear clothing suitable for gardening and not your Sunday best! Dress for the weather, Cheshire can be unpredictable no matter what the season. Have a waterproof and wellies ready just in case! If we are lucky enough to have a sunny day it is recommended that you bring sun cream, a sun hat and sunglasses as you will be outside most of the time.Gardening gloves would be of benefit.
Experience level
We welcome all levels of experience from beginners to the enthusiastic professional!

Feel Fabulous Fridays
2023-06-30 09:30 - 15:30, 2023-07-14 09:30 - 15:30
Our Feel Fabulous Fridays are all about taking time out for yourself in the beautiful, tranquil surroundings of Toolerstone House.
Book a class (or 2) and enjoy our Coffee Shop, which is open exclusively to those who have booked on to one of our sessions throughout the day. Have a light bite, a brew and enjoy the garden view. We will be serving from 9am until 4pm with last orders at 3:30pm.
Please note that ALL bookings for Feel Fabulous Fridays need to be made directly with the tutors via the links provided in the details below.
We recommend you wear suitable attire and bring your own exercise mat.
If the weather is kind we will hold the classes outside on the lawn.
All classes are low impact and suitable for all abilities. As with all exercise please ensure you are fit & able to take part and if you have any concerns about this please contact the individual tutors as directed below.

Pilates – 9:30am to 10:30am
(1 hour session)
Louise will be teaching Pilates which is a form of exercise that concentrates on strengthening the body with an emphasis on core strength. This helps to improve general fitness and overall well-being and focuses on the mind-body connection; your mind needs to constantly be aware of your breathing and the way your body moves during exercise.
Louise’s classes are inclusive, encouraging and uplifting with a focus on core strength, stretching & mobility to improve posture, balance and confidence.
Classes are at 9:30am and can be booked via the link below …

Click to book pilates

PureStretch – 11:00 to 11:45
(45 minute session)
Emma, of Emma Wilson Fitness, will be teaching PureStretch which allows you to release tension in your neck, hips, lower back, shoulders, and more. With each session you’ll develop better circulation, reset your posture, improve your range of motion, feeling a renewed sense of full-body freedom.
A head to toe programme suitable for all, whether recovering from injuries, as an athlete looking to improve performance, or simply wanting to improve flexibility.
Classes are at 11am and can be booked via the link below …

Click to book PureStretch

Hatha Yoga – 12:30 to 1:30
(1 hour session)

Clare Curtis will be teaching hatha Yoga which is a Mind-body practice that incorporates gentle flowing movement, balances, meditation, breathing techniques, and relaxation to quieten our busy minds, relax tense muscles and ease joint stiffness to promote physical and mental well-being. You will be welcomed with a smile in her weekly sessions, where all levels are welcome and you can leave your stresses and tension behind.
Clare has a Bsc First Class Hons in Sports Science and over 23 years of experience teaching yoga to share with you. Through a slow, mindful yoga practice you can experience inner calm, re-energise and feel more balanced.

Click to book Hatha Yoga

Tai Chi & Qigong – 2.30pm-3.30pm
(1 hour session)
Jo Perry will be teaching the art of Tai Chi and Qigong. These are ancient Chinese practices that offer numerous health benefits for both the body and mind. Tai Chi is a martial art that emphasises slow, graceful movements and deep breathing, while Qigong focuses on breathing techniques, meditation, and slow, repetitive movements.
Both practices are gentle yet powerful, making them suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. Regular practice of Tai Chi and Qigong can improve balance, flexibility, and strength, reduce stress and anxiety, lower blood pressure, and enhance overall well-being.
Classes are at 2.30pm and can be booked via the link below …
Click to book Tai-Chi

Create a Textile Landscape Workshop
2023-07-04 09:30 - 16:15
On our ‘Create a Textile Landscape’ workshop you will use an image of a landscape to reproduce as a small, simple woven sample on cardboard using different textures with yarns, fabrics, and threads. Our tutor, Rachel, will demonstrate each stage and your finished piece can be taken home to display on a shelf or hang on a wall. The day is informal and uncomplicated, yet quite unique in its approach to traditional hand embroidery and weaving.
A bit more detail
You can bring your own materials to use in your work, perhaps a piece of old shirt with sentimental value or some beautiful ribbon you have been saving? After attaching the piece to an artist’s canvas and using the initial landscape image as inspiration small details can then be added in acrylic washes and hand painting. While the canvas dries, we will look at ways to add embellishments with simple hand embroidery through the canvas.
About the Tutor
With a background in the textile industry, specifically as an embroidery designer in Macclesfield and the Midlands, and later 15 years as an Art and Design lecturer Rachel is now a self-employed textile artist. Driven by an absolute love of painting and textiles she enjoys creating detailed decorative multimedia textile outcomes that utilise illustration, free machine embroidery and 3D elements. Rachel uses sketchbooks as well as her pieces to tell stories or send messages to the viewer.
Rachel has been involved in a number of community art projects and art exhibitions in Cheshire and is a member of the ReMix Art and Design Group. She has exhibited in Chester Cathedral for the Refresh Project ‘A stitch in Time’ and the Grosvenor Museum exhibition ‘Another Level ‘from 2022 until Spring 2023, and will be exhibiting her textiles in the ‘Stitch by Stitch’ exhibition in Shrewsbury in 2023. Rachel is currently artist in residence for Tarporley.
Timetable of the day
09:30 A warm welcome to @:Toolerstone with refreshments10:00 Introduction to embroidery & techniques used10:30 Time to choose your image and start your piece of art11:15 Coffee will be served11:35 Continue with the workshop and work at your own pace13:00 Delicious homemade, lunch in the refectory14:00 Putting the finishing touches to your work.15.15 Refreshments will be served16:15 Workshop ends but, you can take your creation home!
What is included?

All materials & tools
Aprons are provided for the day if required
Refreshments & a delicious lunch
Free onsite car parking
The most important bit, your very own embroidery to take home

What do I need to bring?
You can bring along an image of a landscape you would like to recreate. Any threads, ribbons, fabrics or materials you may want to incorporate into your work. You can also bring your own sewing equipment if you wish.
Experience level
We welcome all levels of experience from beginners to the enthusiastic professional!

Garden Inspired Wire Sculptures Workshop
2023-07-05 09:30 - 16:00
Join us here in the Toolerstone Glass Room with our Tutor, Liz Wellby, for a relaxing and creative day. Fine and flexible wire is a lovely material to work with, enabling you to create decorations inspired by the @Toolerstone Gardens. The botanical wire shapes have a drawn-like quality to them and all without causing harm to your hands.
A bit more detail
In our creative wire workshop you will learn how to create a range of small and decorative pieces of sculpture, which will take pride of place in your home. The aim of the day is to create beautiful, wire work exploring joining techniques, wrapping, shaping and sculpting wire, with a nature inspired theme.
About the tutor
Liz is a versatile and experienced fine artist. Following the completion of a Fine Arts degree at Loughborough University and subsequent post graduate studies, she returned to Derbyshire where she has worked as an artist in residence, teacher and maker for over 25 years.
Liz is an experienced and award winning tutor, running very well received creative workshops for charities, galleries, museums and art societies throughout the East Midlands.
Living and working in Derbyshire is important to Liz, providing a significant visual resource for her work. The themes of home, countryside and the domestic environment, can be seen in her digital drawings and paintings, print work and sculpture. She is a member of the highly considered Peak District Artisans, regularly exhibiting with the group.
Liz lives in the small village of Carsington on the edge of the Peak District. Working from her home studio – The Slipper Studio, she is kept company by her husband and a cat called Bert.
Timetable of the day
09:30 A warm welcome to @:Toolerstone with refreshments10.00 Introduction to the art of wire sculptures10.10 Talk through materials, equipment and techniques with an initial demonstration by Liz; there will be further demonstrations to introduce new techniques later in the workshop.10.30 Time to start your work11.30 Coffee Break11.45 Continue at your own pace1.00pm Delicious homemade, lunch in the refectory2.00 More time to make your wire pieces3.00 Refreshments will be served3.15 Finishing off your work4.00 Workshop ends but, you can take your wire birds home!
What is included?

All materials & tools
Aprons are provided for the day if required
Refreshments & a delicious lunch
Free onsite car parking
The most important bit, your wire art to take home

What do I need to bring?
Just a smile and a willingness to learn!
Experience level
We welcome all levels of experience from beginners to the enthusiastic professional!

Summer Patio Planters Workshop with wood fire pizza lunch
2023-07-05 10:00 - 14:30
Spruce up your outdoor entertaining space for the BBQ season! Join us and our Head Gardener, Simon, to learn how to plant up 2 patio pots for the perfect backdrop to your summer parties and get togethers.
In small groups of no more than 8 you can work at your own pace and enjoy the relaxed and friendly atmosphere and (hopefully) the sunshine in the @:Toolerstone gardens. We will provide the refreshments, a delicious homemade wood fire pizza Lunch and Toolerstone treats. Your planters are yours to take home to show off!
A bit more detail …
During your time with us you will learn about different plants, potting composts and how to care for your patio planters. You will spend the day in our kitchen garden, teaching greenhouse and cosy chalet style Brew Shed
Throughout the day you will cover many aspects of planting pots including:
• Types of containers, choosing plants that will work well in them, and what plants grow well together
• Growing media – what you can mix yourself, and what suits your plant choices
• Drainage, feeding, and other maintenance tasks to ensure your plants thrive
About the tutor
Simon has been the Head Gardener at Toolerstone since December 2012. Previously, he was an estate gardener looking after the grounds and gardens for a large country estate. Simon has always had a passion for gardens, planting and the outdoors . During his twenties he decided to take that interest to the next level and enrolled at college to study Horticulture and Garden Design at RHS level 2. Simon has run his own gardening business and has a passion for teaching. We are thrilled to have Simon on board with us here @:Toolerstone sharing his knowledge and expertise. He also knows a thing or two about cider making, laying a patio and building a fire!
Timetable of the day
10:00 A warm welcome to @:Toolerstone with refreshments & toasted teacakes
10:30 Introduction to patio planting in the Brew Shed
11:00 Time to start preparing your pots
11:30 Coffee will be served
11:45 Continue with the workshop and work at your own pace
13:00 Garden tour with Simon.
13:30. Delicious homemade wood fire pizza lunch served in the Kitchen Garden (weather permitting)
14:30 Workshop ends & your pots are yours to take home
What is included?

All materials, 2 patio pots, plants & tools
Aprons are provided for the day
Refreshments & a delicious pizza lunch

What do I need to bring?
It is advised that you wear clothing suitable for gardening and not your Sunday best! Dress for the weather, Cheshire can be unpredictable no matter what the season. Have a waterproof and wellies ready just in case! If we are lucky enough to have a sunny day it is recommended that you bring sun cream, a sun hat and sunglasses as you will be outside most of the time.
Gardening gloves would be of benefit.
Experience level
We welcome all levels of experience from beginners to the enthusiastic professional!

Wire Birds Workshop
2023-07-06 09:30 - 16:00
Join us here in the Toolerstone Glass Room with our Tutor, Liz Wellby, for a relaxing and creative day. Fine and flexible wire is a lovely material to work with, enabling you to create characterful objects, with a drawn-like quality to them and all without causing harm to your hands.
A bit more detail
In our creative wire workshop you will learn how to create a range of small and decorative pieces of sculpture, which will take pride of place in your home. The aim of the day is to create 3 beautiful outcomes, exploring joining techniques, wrapping, shaping and sculpting wire, with a distinctly bird shaped theme.
About the tutor
Liz is a versatile and experienced fine artist. Following the completion of a Fine Arts degree at Loughborough University and subsequent post graduate studies, she returned to Derbyshire where she has worked as an artist in residence, teacher and maker for over 25 years.
Liz is an experienced and award winning tutor, running very well received creative workshops for charities, galleries, museums and art societies throughout the East Midlands.
Living and working in Derbyshire is important to Liz, providing a significant visual resource for her work. The themes of home, countryside and the domestic environment, can be seen in her digital drawings and paintings, print work and sculpture. She is a member of the highly considered Peak District Artisans, regularly exhibiting with the group.
Liz lives in the small village of Carsington on the edge of the Peak District. Working from her home studio – The Slipper Studio, she is kept company by her husband and a cat called Bert.
Timetable of the day
09:30 A warm welcome to @:Toolerstone with refreshments10.00 Introduction to the art of wire sculptures10.10 Talk through materials, equipment and techniques with an introductory demonstration by Liz; there will be further demonstrations to introduce new techniques later in the workshop.10.30 Time to start your work11.30 Coffee Break11.45 Continue at your own pace1.00pm Delicious homemade, lunch in the refectory2.00 More time to make your wire pieces3.00 Refreshments will be served3.15 Finishing off your work4.00 Workshop ends but, you can take your wire birds home!
What is included?

All materials & use of tools
Aprons are provided for the day if required
Refreshments & a delicious lunch
Free onsite car parking
The most important bit, your wire art to take home

What do I need to bring?
Just a smile and a willingness to learn!
Experience level
We welcome all levels of experience from beginners to the enthusiastic professional!

Feel Fabulous Fridays
2023-07-07 09:30 - 15:30
Our Feel Fabulous Fridays are all about taking time out for yourself in the beautiful, tranquil surroundings of Toolerstone House.
Book a class (or 2) and enjoy our Coffee Shop, which is open exclusively to those who have booked on to one of our sessions throughout the day. Have a light bite, a brew and enjoy the garden view. We will be serving from 9am until 4pm with last orders at 3:30pm.
Please note that ALL bookings for Feel Fabulous Fridays need to be made directly with the tutors via the links provided in the details below.
We recommend you wear suitable attire and bring your own exercise mat.
If the weather is kind we will hold the classes outside on the lawn.
All classes are low impact and suitable for all abilities. As with all exercise please ensure you are fit & able to take part and if you have any concerns about this please contact the individual tutors as directed below.

Pilates – 9:30am to 10:30am
(1 hour session)
Louise will be teaching Pilates which is a form of exercise that concentrates on strengthening the body with an emphasis on core strength. This helps to improve general fitness and overall well-being and focuses on the mind-body connection; your mind needs to constantly be aware of your breathing and the way your body moves during exercise.
Louise’s classes are inclusive, encouraging and uplifting with a focus on core strength, stretching & mobility to improve posture, balance and confidence.
Classes are at 9:30am and can be booked via the link below …

Click to book pilates

PureStretch – 11:00 to 11:45
(45 minute session)
Emma, of Emma Wilson Fitness, will be teaching PureStretch which allows you to release tension in your neck, hips, lower back, shoulders, and more. With each session you’ll develop better circulation, reset your posture, improve your range of motion, feeling a renewed sense of full-body freedom.
A head to toe programme suitable for all, whether recovering from injuries, as an athlete looking to improve performance, or simply wanting to improve flexibility.
Classes are at 11am and can be booked via the link below …

Click to book PureStretch

Tai Chi & Qigong – 2.30pm-3.30pm
(1 hour session)
Jo Perry will be teaching the art of Tai Chi and Qigong. These are ancient Chinese practices that offer numerous health benefits for both the body and mind. Tai Chi is a martial art that emphasises slow, graceful movements and deep breathing, while Qigong focuses on breathing techniques, meditation, and slow, repetitive movements.
Both practices are gentle yet powerful, making them suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. Regular practice of Tai Chi and Qigong can improve balance, flexibility, and strength, reduce stress and anxiety, lower blood pressure, and enhance overall well-being.
Classes are at 2.30pm and can be booked via the link below …
Click to book Tai-Chi

Escape to the @:Gardens
2023-07-10 10:00 - 12:30
Come and enjoy our beautiful gardens and the tranquillity and peace they have to offer. You can walk, stroll, sit and chat, or simply admire the view.
Our Head Gardener, Simon, will be on hand to offer advice and answer any questions you may have about horticulture. Simon will also be giving a guided tour of the grounds.
You can bring your camera if you are a keen photographer or your paints & easel if you are looking for somewhere to be creative. We have artists chairs for you to use.
For a £10 donation you have access to the gardens, a cup of tea or coffee & a slice of homemade cake.
All donations go directly to support the @:Toolerstone charity.
We give free workshop places to those who care for others. Our current beneficiaries include NHS staff from Leighton Hospital, the staff of St Luke’s Hospice in Winsford, The Joshua Tree and Age UK Cheshire. We also support a young person’s charity; ‘We Mind The Gap’.
Thank you for your support.
To give all of our guests the opportunity to relax we respectfully inform you that we cannot accommodate children or dogs.
Please also see our access statement on our website for more information.

Escape to the @:Gardens
2023-07-10 13:00 - 15:30
Come and enjoy our beautiful gardens and the tranquillity and peace they have to offer. You can walk, stroll, sit and chat, or simply admire the view.
Our Head Gardener, Simon, will be on hand to offer advice and answer any questions you may have about horticulture. Simon will also be giving a guided tour of the grounds.
You can bring your camera if you are a keen photographer or your paints & easel if you are looking for somewhere to be creative. We have artists chairs for you to use.
For a £10 donation, you have access to the gardens, a cup of tea or coffee & a slice of homemade cake.
All donations go directly to support the @:Toolerstone charity.
We give free workshop places to those who care for others. Our current beneficiaries include NHS staff from Leighton Hospital, the staff of St Luke’s Hospice in Winsford, The Joshua Tree and Age UK Cheshire. We also support a young person’s charity; ‘We Mind The Gap’.
Thank you for your support.
To give all of our guests the opportunity to relax we respectfully inform you that we cannot accommodate children or dogs.
Please also see our access statement on our website for more information.

Paper Wild Flower Posy Workshop
2023-07-11 09:30 - 16:00
Paper flower crafting is a truly satisfying art form. Whether you are an absolute beginner or already have experience, there is always a new flower to master. Crafting paper flowers is a gentle, steady skill. As you build a flower you can retreat from every day stresses, relax and create something beautiful. Join us and our tutor, Ling of Paper by Dragonfly and learn how to make paper wild flower blooms.
A bit more detail
The paper petals are individually cut and shaped, each step taken by studying the flower. Flowers are assembled using wire, wax tape and glue. Creating paper flowers is a wonderfully mindful artform and Ling loves to share this through teaching in her workshops.
About the tutor
Seeking a change of direction from life in the city, in 2005 Ling taught herself graphic design, left her job and founded Dragonfly, creating custom wedding and event stationery. Global events in 2020 saw her events business cancelled overnight, causing a change of direction. Lockdown granted time to explore creativity and brought her to paper flowers, which are now her focus and her passion. Through her work Ling wants to honour and celebrate our natural environment, and aims to do it in as sustainable a way as possible. All Ling’s paper botanicals are unique pieces, created by hand in her studio in Hoylake, Wirral. Starting with a simple sheet of crepe, Ling dyes much of her own paper using plant and vegetable matter and works hard to eliminate plastic from her work.”
Ling’s favourite flowers will always be the wild ones – the insignificant little ones, whose beauty can only be truly appreciated when examined through a magnifier – or when magnified in a piece of botanical art.
Ling’s recent ‘Euroflowers’ project – creating the national flowers of all the countries represented at Eurovision – will be exhibited at the World Museum, Liverpool throughout May 2023 as the city hosts Eurovision. Throughout the summer of 2023, her ‘Paper Meadow’, created with local school children, will be displayed at various locations including Wirral Country Park, Birkenhead Park Gallery and the Lady Lever Art Gallery.
Timetable of the day
09:30 A warm welcome to @:Toolerstone with refreshments
10.00 Introduction to the art of paper flowers
10.10 Talk through materials used. Introducing the basics of working with crepe paper including stretching, shaping techniques
10.20 The Flowers – poppies, oxeye daisies and buttercups. Group discussion to cover characteristics of each type of flower, understanding the groups interest and knowledge of botany
10.30 Making a poppy, step by step.
11.30 Coffee Break
11.45 Continue making your paper poppy at your own pace and preparing the afternoon’s flowers.
1.00 pm Delicious homemade, lunch in the refectory
2.00 Ox-Eye Daisy, step by step, including both flower and leaf.
3.00 Refreshments will be served
3.15 Buttercups, complete posy
4.00 Workshop ends but, you can take your paper flowers home!
What is included?

All materials & tools
Aprons are provided for the day if required
Refreshments & a delicious lunch
Free onsite car parking
Step-by-step handouts are given out at the end of the session.
The most important bit, your paper flowers to take home

What do I need to bring?
Just a smile and a willingness to learn!
Experience level
We welcome all levels of experience from beginners to the enthusiastic professional!

Hare Willow Weaving Workshop
2023-07-19 09:30 - 16:30
Basketry (or willow weaving as it has become known) is widely believed to be the oldest craft in the world, dating back ten to twelve thousand years and predating pottery.
Willow weaving in an ancient craft and evidence has been discovered that it was also practised in Roman times. Willow is still used to make functional items but it is also used to produce beautiful sculptures and amazing structures.
A bit more detail
The willow Sarah uses is from the Somerset Levels and is a renewable and sustainable crop. It is the ultimate green product absorbing carbon from the atmosphere as it grows.
The sculptures are made entirely of willow. Sarah’s workshops are run at a steady pace and are suitable for beginners. You will be expertly guided through every step to create a wonderful sculpture of your own.
In our workshop you will be taken step by step by Sarah to make a beautiful sculpture of a hare to take home.
About the Tutor
‘Willow has a fluidity that can’t be matched; it can twist and bend and turn to be reworked into whatever shape I desire; I am literally drawing with sticks.”
Sarah Gallagher-Hayes is a local willow sculptor. She has been creating sculptures for over 20 years and has been commissioned to make sculptures for Kew Gardens, Chelsea flower show and RHS Wisley gardens to name a few.
Sarah will be running a number of workshops throughout the year here at Toolerstone. The workshops are suitable for beginners or people who have done willow weaving before. Choose from seasonal pieces or small animals and create your own sculpture in one day.
Timetable of the day
09:30 A warm welcome to @:Toolerstone with refreshments
10:00 Introduction to willow weaving & techniques used
10:30 Time to start your sculpture
11:00 Coffee will be served
11:15 Continue with the workshop and work at your own pace
13:00. Delicious homemade, lunch in the refectory
14:00 Putting the finishing touches to your work.
15.15 Refreshments
16:30. Workshop ends but, you can take your hare home!
What is included?

All materials & tools
Aprons are provided for the day if required
Refreshments & a delicious lunch
Free onsite car parking
The most important bit, your very own willow sculpture to take home

What do I need to bring?
Thin gardening gloves would be of benefit as the willow can be tough on your hands.
Experience level
We welcome all levels of experience from beginners to the enthusiastic professional!

Feel Fabulous Fridays
2023-09-08 09:30 - 15:30, 2023-09-15 09:30 - 15:30, 2023-09-22 09:30 - 15:30, 2023-09-29 09:30 - 15:30, 2023-10-06 09:30 - 15:30, 2023-10-13 09:30 - 15:30
Our Feel Fabulous Fridays are all about taking time out for yourself in the beautiful, tranquil surroundings of Toolerstone House.
Book a class (or 2) and enjoy our Coffee Shop, which is open exclusively to those who have booked on to one of our sessions throughout the day. Have a light bite, a brew and enjoy the garden view. We will be serving from 9am until 2pm with last orders at 1:30pm. Please note that we will close at 3pm.
Please note that ALL bookings for Feel Fabulous Fridays need to be made directly with the tutors via the links provided in the details below.
We recommend you wear suitable attire and bring your own exercise mat.
If the weather is kind we will hold the classes outside on the lawn.
All classes are low impact and suitable for all abilities. As with all exercise please ensure you are fit & able to take part and if you have any concerns about this please contact the individual tutors as directed below.

Pilates – 9:45 to 10:45

Clare Curtis will be teaching our first session on Feel Fabulous Fridays. Pilates is a complete movement system to enhance overall well-being. To balance the mind and body, by optimising joint and muscle health, posture and breathing. Through control, the precision of movement, and awareness of alignment you rediscover an efficient, seamless and beautiful connection to movement. This promotes strength, stability, falls prevention, inner strength and confidence, mobility and flexibility and helps to reduce injury. Breathing will improve as you restore your natural posture. Muscle tension will ease and your energy levels will be enhanced.
Changes are gradual and subtle but life-changing, notice climbing the stairs, reaching, balancing, lifting and coordination all feel easier. Sports performance improves along with the quality of everyday life and doing whatever you love.

Click to book Pilates

PureStretch – 11am to 11:45am

Emma, of Emma Wilson Fitness, will be teaching PureStretch which
is a top to toe functional stretch class. Working on your balance and posture, relaxing our mind as well as our muscles! Effectively mobilising joints in a gentle way to improve their overall health and range of movement. Releasing fascia and connective tissue which gets stuck and contributes to us feeling stiff and sore. Allowing your body to move within it’s own limits, but working on your flexibility, core and strength. By connecting with our muscle groups in a deliberate set of movement, it promotes good pelvic health, happy hips, healthy hamstrings, shoulder and spinal mobility, so that your daily tasks and movement like stairs, balancing, lifting yourself on and off the floor or sofa, getting in and out of the car, your sports performance, playing with children and grandchildren etc are improved.
A unique fusion of Pilates & yoga and a wonderful way to give your body some self-love and care, helping reduce risks of injury, promoting recovery from daily life and of course aiding your confidence in your own body and it’s capabilities so you can live the life you love!
Restorative movement for your mind and body.

Click to book PureStretch

Hatha Yoga – 12 midday to 1pm

Clare Curtis will be teaching hatha Yoga which is a Mind-body practice that incorporates gentle flowing movement, balances, meditation, breathing techniques, and relaxation to quieten our busy minds, relax tense muscles and ease joint stiffness to promote physical and mental well-being. You will be welcomed with a smile in her weekly sessions, where all levels are welcome and you can leave your stresses and tension behind.
Clare has a BSc First Class Hons in Sports Science and over 23 years of experience teaching yoga to share with you. Through a slow, mindful yoga practice you can experience inner calm, re-energise and feel more balanced.

Click to book Hatha Yoga

Autumnal Lino Print Workshop
2023-09-12 09:30 - 16:30
Join us for a wonderful workshop where you will learn the basics of lino printing with our tutor Kirsty Hall. Lino printing is a very relaxing pass-time, creating print after print with different inks.
A bit more detail
In this workshop we will be exploring an autumnal theme taking inspiration from beautiful, British flora and fauna found in our gardens hedgerows and woodlands at this time of year. You will develop a design taking inspiration from Toolerstone’s stunning gardens, leaves, seed heads and plant forms and you can include an animal character if you wish. There will also be a range of example prints on hand to inspire your own ideas. In the afternoon you will print your design in a range of autumnal colours to create atmospheric, seasonal prints.
About the Tutor
Kirsty Hall is an artist and print maker inspired by the natural world. Her personal work often uses animals and botanical forms as a starting point and she enjoys creating detailed illustrations and combining them with block colour in a graphic style. She is currently exploring screen and lino printing and loving learning more about these wonderful processes. Kirsty exhibits her work and sells prints and originals in her online shop through her business The Little Art House.
Kirsty is also an experienced Art & Design teacher with a background in A-Level teaching and it is this wealth of experience which inspires her to create innovative, creative workshops with teaching at their heart.
Timetable of the day
09:30 A warm welcome to @:Toolerstone with refreshments
10:00 Introduction to lino print techniques and materials
11:15 Coffee will be served
13:00 Delicious homemade, lunch in the refectory
14:00 Putting the finishing touches to your work.
16:30 Workshop ends but, you can take your print home!
What is included?
All materials & tools
Aprons are provided for the day if required
Refreshments & a delicious lunch
Free onsite car parking
The most important bit, your very own piece of art to take home
What do I need to bring?
Just a smile and willingness to learn
Experience level
We welcome all levels of experience from beginners to the enthusiastic professional!

Hydrangea Wreath Workshop With afternoon tea
2023-09-14 10:00 - 14:30, 2023-09-21 10:00 - 14:30, 2023-09-28 10:00 - 14:30
A door wreath is not just for Christmas! Wreaths make beautiful additions to your home in any season and you can now create your own in one of our Seasonal Wreath making workshop.
The unique and beautiful style that is reflected in the stunning arrangements will be taught in this step by step workshop. Your front door will most certainly be the best dressed in the street, you may even want to keep your wreath on display indoors so you can admire your own handy work!
We allow plenty of time and provide all the equipment you will need to create your wreath. Refreshments as well as a delicious home-made afternoon tea will be served.

Experience Level
We welcome all levels of expertise from beginner to the accomplished.

Timetable of the day
10.00 A warm welcome to @:Toolerstone with coffee & pastries
10.30 Introduction to wreath making
11.30 Coffee will be served
13.00 Delicious homemade, afternoon tea in the refectory
14.30 Workshop ends but, your love of all things creative will continue.

What is included on the day?

All drinks, refreshments and a delicious afternoon tea are included.
All materials and tools will be provided for you to use.
An apron will be provided for the duration of the workshop
Free onsite car parking
Your wreath is yours to keep and take home at the end of the day

Do I need to bring anything?
The floristry wire used can be sharp, as can some of the foliage. If you have any gardening gloves we recommend you bring them along to protect your hands and fingers.

Bee Willow Weaving Workshop
2023-09-20 09:30 - 16:30
The willow Sarah uses is from the Somerset Levels and is a renewable and sustainable crop. It is the ultimate green product absorbing carbon from the atmosphere as it grows.
The sculptures are made entirely of willow. Sarah’s workshops are run at a steady pace and are suitable for beginners. You will be expertly guided through every step to create a wonderful sculpture of your own.
In our workshop, you will be taken step by step by Sarah to make beautiful bees to take home.
About the Tutor
‘Willow has a fluidity that can’t be matched; it can twist and bend and turn to be reworked into whatever shape I desire; I am literally drawing with sticks.”
Sarah Gallagher-Hayes is a local willow sculptor. She has been creating sculptures for over 20 years and has been commissioned to make sculptures for Kew Gardens, Chelsea flower show and RHS Wisley gardens to name a few.
Timetable of the day
09:30 A warm welcome to @:Toolerstone with refreshments
10:00 Workshop starts
13:00. Delicious homemade, lunch in the refectory
16:30. Workshop ends but, you can take your buzzing bees home!
What is included?

All materials & tools
Aprons are provided for the day if required
All refreshments & a delicious home-made lunch
Free onsite car parking
The most important bit, your very own willow sculpture to take home

What do I need to bring?
Thin gardening gloves would be of benefit as the willow can be tough on your hands.
Experience level
We welcome all levels of experience from beginners to the enthusiastic professional!

Heavenly Hydrangeas in Watercolours Workshop
2023-09-26 09:45 - 15:00
Have a fabulous day experimenting with lots of different watercolour techniques to create these multi headed, lovely late Summer blooms. Join friendly and experienced Cheshire watercolour artist Allie. She will share her skills and give you guidance throughout your day, in the light and spacious studio space. All dates are suitable for complete beginners to intermediates. Includes art materials, a freshly homemade lunch and refreshments.
About the Tutor
Allie graduated with a BA hons degree in illustration and spent time pursuing her love of art in London. Allie says the “Drawing, painting and sketching is all about enjoying your topic”.
Allie has had her work featured in many exhibitions including Young Illustrator of the year exhibition at Smiths Gallery, Covent Garden, The Association of Illustrators Gallery in London, The Arts Centre in Bollington, Cheshire. She has also exhibited paintings at ‘Summerfields’ in Oxford and at the Royal Collage of London in aid of the Art for Youth.
Timetable of the day
9.45 A warm welcome
10.00 Introduction and demonstration of sketching glorious multi headed hydrangeas from the garden.
11.15 Coffee will be served
12.45 Lunch in the refectory
15.00 Putting the finishing touches to your work for a finish at 15.45
What is included?
All materials & tools
Aprons are provided for the day if required
Refreshments & a delicious lunch
Free onsite car parking
The most important bit, your very own piece of art to take home
What do I need to bring?
You can bring your favourite brushes if you wish.
Experience level
We welcome all levels of experience from beginners to the enthusiastic professional!

Autumn Wreath Workshop
2023-09-26 10:00 - 14:30
A wreath makes a beautiful addition to your home at any time of the year and you can now create your own in one of our Autumn Wreath making workshops.
The unique and beautiful style that is reflected in the stunning arrangements are taught in this step by step one day workshop. Your front door will most certainly be the best dressed in the street, you may even want to keep your wreath on display indoors so you can admire your own handy work!
The Workshop in detail
We allow plenty of time and provide everything you will need to create your wonderful wreath. We will keep you nourished during the class as we include seasonal home bakes and refreshments as well as a delicious lunch.
Using seasonal, fragrant foliage from traditional spruce or eucalyptus to more unusual foliage that you may not have come across before, your autumn wreath will be finished with a handpicked selection of cones, pods, guords, quince, berries, fruit, moss and more.
Experience Level
We welcome all levels of expertise from beginner to the accomplished.
Timetable of the day
10.00 A warm welcome to @:Toolerstone with coffee & tea
10.30 Introduction to wreath making & techniques used
11.15 Refreshments will be served
12.45 Delicious homemade, organic lunch in the refectory
14:30 Workshop ends but, your love of all things creative will continue.
What is included on the day?
All drinks, refreshments and a delicious lunch are included
All materials and tools will be provided for you to use on the day
An apron will be provided for the duration of the workshop
Free onsite car parking
Your wreath is yours to keep and take home at the end of the day
Do I need to bring anything?
The floristry wire used can be sharp, as can some of the foliage. If you have any gardening gloves we recommend you bring them along to protect your hands and fingers.

Hare Willow Weaving Workshop
2023-09-27 09:30 - 16:30, 2023-10-11 09:30 - 16:30
The willow Sarah uses is from the Somerset Levels and is a renewable and sustainable crop. It is the ultimate green product absorbing carbon from the atmosphere as it grows.
The sculptures are made entirely of willow. Sarah’s workshops are run at a steady pace and are suitable for beginners. You will be expertly guided through every step to create a wonderful sculpture of your own.
About the Tutor
‘Willow has a fluidity that can’t be matched; it can twist and bend and turn to be reworked into whatever shape I desire; I am literally drawing with sticks.”
Sarah Gallagher-Hayes is a local willow sculptor. She has been creating sculptures for over 20 years and has been commissioned to make sculptures for Kew Gardens, Chelsea flower show and RHS Wisley gardens to name a few.
Timetable of the day
09:30 A warm welcome to @:Toolerstone with refreshments
10:00 Time to start your sculpture
13:00. Delicious homemade, lunch in the refectory
16:30. Workshop ends but, you can take your hare home!
What is included?

All materials & tools
Aprons are provided for the day if required
Refreshments & a delicious lunch
Free onsite car parking
The most important bit, your very own willow sculpture to take home

What do I need to bring?
Thin gardening gloves would be of benefit as the willow can be tough on your hands.
Experience level
We welcome all levels of experience from beginners to the enthusiastic professional!

Butterflies & Dragonflies Weaving Workshop
2023-10-04 09:30 - 16:30
The willow Sarah uses is from the Somerset Levels and is a renewable and sustainable crop. It is the ultimate green product absorbing carbon from the atmosphere as it grows.
The sculptures are made entirely of willow. Sarah’s workshops are run at a steady pace and are suitable for beginners. You will be expertly guided through every step to create a wonderful sculpture of your own.
In our workshop you will be taken step by step by Sarah to make beautiful butterflies & dragonflies to take home.
About the Tutor
‘Willow has a fluidity that can’t be matched; it can twist and bend and turn to be reworked into whatever shape I desire; I am literally drawing with sticks.”
Sarah Gallagher-Hayes is a local willow sculptor. She has been creating sculptures for over 20 years and has been commissioned to make sculptures for Kew Gardens, Chelsea flower show and RHS Wisley gardens to name a few.
Timetable of the day
09:30 A warm welcome to @:Toolerstone with refreshments
10:00 Workshop starts
13:00. Delicious homemade, lunch in the refectory
16:30. Workshop ends but, you can take your hare home!
What is included?

All materials & tools
Aprons are provided for the day if required
All refreshments & a delicious home-made lunch
Free onsite car parking
The most important bit, your very own willow sculpture to take home

What do I need to bring?
Thin gardening gloves would be of benefit as the willow can be tough on your hands.
Experience level
We welcome all levels of experience from beginners to the enthusiastic professional!

Botanical Vase and Coasters Pottery Workshop
2023-10-10 09:30 - 15:30
Inspired by the beautiful gardens at Toolerstone we will be exploring nature to identify flowers and foliage that we will then use to create lasting impressions in clay. Using your imprinted clay your tutor will guide you through hand-building pottery techniques to create vases and coasters. You will then add colour to the surface decoration enhancing the botanical theme and producing a range of items that will look stunning in your home.
A bit more detail:
Pottery has the potential for infinite variability through clay type, form and surface decoration. From vessels to making art, humans have been playing with clay for over 20,000 years. This tactile medium is wonderfully forgiving to work with and 3 dimensional forms are quickly produced.
About the tutor:
Jeni Jacques-Williams, is a Cheshire based ceramicist and is a regular columnist for Clay Craft magazine providing articles to support and guide new and experienced potters across the UK and internationally. Jeni creates pottery and teaches from her pottery workshop Lemon Studio in the beautiful village of Dunham Massey and has sold work in shops and galleries across the UK and for the National Trust.
Jeni is a member of the Northern Potters Association and is the founder of the Warrington Creatives Collective, a group of over 20 local makers.
Jeni will be delivering a range of pottery workshops throughout the year here at Toolerstone. The workshops are suitable for beginners and for those with previous experience working with clay.
Timetable of the day
09:30 A warm welcome to @:Toolerstone with coffee & pastries
10:00 An introduction to the workshop and time spent in the garden collecting foliage and ideas.
11:15 Tea and Coffee will be served.
An introduction to clay and the hand-building techniques we will be using.
11:30 Time to start making your slabs, imprinting your foraged materials and creating your vases and coasters.
13:00 Delicious homemade lunch in the refectory
14:00 Embellish your pottery using coloured glazes and applying surface decoration.
15:00 Tea and treats.
15.30 Workshop ends and your pottery will be taken away by Jeni to be dried, fired and dip-glazed before being posted to you within 4 weeks.
What is included?

All materials & tools
Aprons are provided for the day if required
Refreshments & a delicious lunch
Free onsite car parking
Following the workshop your pieces will be dried, bisque-fired, clear glazed and fired again before being dispatched to you within 4 weeks.

Autumn Wreath Workshop
2023-10-12 10:00 - 14:30
A wreath makes a beautiful addition to your home at any time of the year and you can now create your own in one of our Autumn Wreath making workshops.
The unique and beautiful style that is reflected in the stunning arrangements are taught in this step by step one day workshop. Your front door will most certainly be the best dressed in the street, you may even want to keep your wreath on display indoors so you can admire your own handy work!
The Workshop in detail
We allow plenty of time and provide everything you will need to create your wonderful wreath. We will keep you nourished during the class as we include seasonal home bakes and refreshments as well as a delicious lunch.
Using seasonal, fragrant foliage from traditional spruce or eucalyptus to more unusual foliage that you may not have come across before, your autumn wreath will be finished with a handpicked selection of cones, pods, guords, quince, berries, fruit, moss and more.
Experience Level
We welcome all levels of expertise from beginner to the accomplished.
Timetable of the day
10.00 A warm welcome to @:Toolerstone with coffee & tea
10.30 Introduction to wreath making & techniques used
11.15 Refreshments will be served
12.30 Delicious homemade, organic lunch in the refectory
14:30 Workshop ends but, your love of all things creative will continue.
What is included on the day?
All drinks, refreshments and a delicious lunch are included
All materials and tools will be provided for you to use on the day
An apron will be provided for the duration of the workshop
Free onsite car parking
Your wreath is yours to keep and take home at the end of the day
Do I need to bring anything?
The floristry wire used can be sharp, as can some of the foliage. If you have any gardening gloves we recommend you bring them along to protect your hands and fingers.
