Each of the enchanting themed gardens created by Geoff Hamilton for the BBC Gardener’s World programmes is an absolute delight and really inspires me to get out my paintbrush.  Views of the garden, together with beautiful flower studies are perfect for wet-into-wet watercolour and have inspired the special painting days held here.

"I have been teaching now for over 25 years and wanted the Barnsdale days to be much more than just another painting class, so we have made them rather special.  They are a chance to sit back and watch lots of delicious wet-into-wet watercolour demonstration and then have a go yourself, with plenty of help and encouragement. A beautiful setting and delicious cream tea in the afternoon make each of these days a very enjoyable experience."   Sandra

During Summer months we may be based in the marquee to enjoy the garden, at other times we will be indoors next to the tearooms.  

I hope that you will be able to join us on one or more of these special days.  Non-painting partners are also welcome, they may like to look around the gardens and join us for tea.

View the full list of special painting days at Barnsdale Gardens.*

*Please note classes planned for December 2019 at Barnsdale will 

no longer take place due the tea room being closed.

What to bring

Just bring along your usual watercolour materials, plus extra watercolour paper to try out techniques.  

Chairs are provided in the marquee, but you may like to bring something portable and more comfy.  I like to work simply with a board on my lap when painting outside, but if you prefer to use an easel or folding table by all means bring one along.  

You can see my watercolours (originals and prints) in the coffee shop.  There is also a range of Artist’s greeting cards available in the Gift Shop.