Elizabeth Gaskell’s House

Elizabeth Gaskell (1810-65) was one of the most important and best loved Victorian writers. Her novels and letters reveal a warm-hearted woman who was a shrewd judge of character, inquisitive, witty and profoundly concerned with social justice.

Besides telling a good story her novels often reflect the social and political tensions of the day. She lived at 84 Plymouth Grove in Manchester with her husband William and their daughters from 1850 until her death in 1865.  

Her beautifully-restored house provides the inspirational surroundings for a number of creative experiences, boasting spectacular period rooms, villa garden, tea room and a much loved book shop selling a range of new and second hand books.

Creative Writing Workshop - 10am - 4pm
Led by an in-house creative writing teacher, participants will have exclusive use of the House and gardens during the morning, for contemplation and inspiration, and will enjoy a freshly-prepared lunch, before resuming writing in the afternoon.

Sketching Elizabeth Gaskell’s House - 10am - 4pm
If you have ever wanted to record your memories of a visit using your own sketches and illustrations then join this special workshop where you will learn a variety of ways to capture special places using pen, pencil, watercolour and other simple materials in a sketchbook. From drawing special items like lamps and furniture, to details and features as well as views, this one day workshop will give you some tools to get started in the delightful historic setting of Elizabeth Gaskell’s House. Participants needs to bring own materials – list supplied.