Get creative at Astley Hall with Summer Studio Sessions

Be inspired by local nature and heritage this summer as a new programme of creative craft workshops comes to Astley Hall’s walled garden and coach house.

The Astley Summer Studio Sessions will run every Tuesday afternoon from 28 July to 25 August 2026, offering relaxed, welcoming, artist-led workshops suitable for beginners and experienced makers alike.

Councillor Peter Wilson, deputy leader of Chorley Borough Council said, “The vibrant colours and stunning heritage setting of Astley Hall’s walled garden make it a wonderful place to try something new and be creative.

“It’s always great to see our green spaces being used in different ways.”

The summer studio sessions are designed to be friendly and accessible, with experienced artists guiding participants through each activity.

Workshop programme

• Botanical Slow Stitching with Sorrell Kerrison – Tuesday 28 July, 11am to 2.30pm and Tuesday 4 August, 11am to 2.30pm. Inspired by the colours and textures of Astley’s Walled Garden, create a botanical-inspired piece using threads and embroidery techniques.
• Woven with Flowers with Natasha Emily Lynch – Tuesday 11 August, 1pm to 4pm. Create a floral wall hanging using seasonal flowers, foliage and natural fibres.
• Creative Re-Use Workshop with Lucy Wray – Tuesday 18 August, 1pm to 3pm. A hands-on session exploring the creative possibilities of re-used materials and transforming everyday objects into something unique.
• Sketchbook Stories with Angelica Vanasse – Tuesday 25 August, 1pm to 3pm. Make a mini sketchbook and explore drawing, collage and painting to share ideas, connections to place and appreciation for the living world.

The Botanical Slow Stitching, Woven with Flowers and Creative Re-Use workshops are appropriate for those aged 16+, whilst Sketchbook Stories is open to all ages. Tickets are available to book online for £15 each and include materials. Places are limited and advance booking is essential.

To find out more and book, visit www.astleypark.co.uk/astleysummerstudio

Keep an out for more events and activities coming up at Astley Hall, Coach House and Park this summer. Follow @astleyhallpark on Facebook and Instagram for updates.