Unleash your Creativity

1. Get creative at a Coffee and Clay Morning at the Brick and Tile Museum, Bridgwater.  These relaxed and friendly (adult only) sessions invite visitors to enjoy experimenting with clay, whether sculpting, shaping, or simply having fun exploring different textures.  With expert guidance on hand, you can craft something personal while learning about traditional clay techniques.  The event runs from 10am till 12.30pm and is just £5 including a hot drink and a lump of clay, no need to book just check the dates here.  Firing and glazing is sometimes possible for an additional fee.  Find out about more workshops such as how to make a flower bird bath here.  


pic credit: Brick & Tile Museum

2. Create coastal scenes on your Ipad, using Procreate, with Alison Jacobs, a renowned Somerset artist known for her evocative paintings that capture the beauty of the natural world.  This session is a great way to unlock the creative potential of your iPad and enjoy exploring the mobile studio in your hands.  Alison will guide you through the myriad of brushes and teach you how to create a coastal scene using your iPad expressing the wonderful view of the Bristol Channel from her studio windows at East Quay Watchet.  This fun, cheery workshop will run from 10am till noon on 29 March and costs £20, find more details here.   East Quay also runs a programme of creative events throughout the year.

pic credit: Alison Jacobs

3. Learn how to create beautiful prints using natural materials like leaves and flowers to design your own printed tote bag at SL-ATE Concept Store, Bridgwater.  This fun and creative workshop is perfect for nature lovers and craft enthusiasts, with no prior experience needed.  Local artist and designer Nathan will guide you through the process in a relaxed and inspiring setting.  £27.80 for a two hour session including all your materials and a glass of bubbles/coffee or tea, book here.  SL-ATE also offers a range of regular, relaxed workshops including creating your own scent and Sip and Paint in this welcoming and artistic space or just drop in for coffee and cake.  Find out more here.



4. Lowe’s Pottery Painting, Burnham-on-Sea, offers a hands on pottery painting experience, where Tina will guide you through every step of the process.  Learn how to use different brushes, sponges and texture tools and find out about layering and blending techniques.  Whether you're a complete beginner or a seasoned artist, this relaxed and welcoming session is perfect for all ages and abilities “as long as you can make a mark,” you can create something special.  Prices start from £12 which includes your session, all paint and associated items and firing to give a finished look.  They are run by appointment which you can book here.


pic credit: Lowe's Pottery

5. Learn the Art of Documentary Filmmaking in a Day at Somerset Film at the Engine Room, Bridgwater.  This hands on workshop will guide you through documentary filmmaking from developing an idea and finding a compelling story to learning how to capture it using professional cameras and microphones.  You'll also explore editing techniques and discover useful resources to continue your filmmaking journey.  Somerset Film runs regular workshops, check their website for dates.  Their workshop content is designed for adults, please enquire about under 18s places.  No prior experience is needed and all equipment is provided.  Full day workshops start from £70 per person.  

Pic credit: IMPACT20twenty

6. Play the ukulele in a friendly and fun group.  Join the Bridgwater Ukulele Group for a relaxed and welcoming weekly jam session at Bridgwater Arts Centre.  Whether you're a seasoned musician or a complete beginner, you’ll enjoy playing, singing along and learning new songs with like-minded music lovers.  Visitors are always welcome to drop in, bring your own ukulele or borrow one and try your hand at a few chords.  Just £2 for a one and a half hour session, no need to book, Tuesdays at 7pm.



Discover the Art of Crafting Somerset Wine, Cider and Gin

7. Learn how award-winning wine is made with a private tutored wine tasting at Oatley Vineyard, near Cannington.  Enjoy a guided tasting of crisp, dry white wines and find out about sustainable viticulture from the owners themselves.  You will walk among the vines and hear firsthand about the vineyard’s journey, eco-friendly practices, and the next generation’s involvement.  The tasting will provide you with an insight into winemaking techniques, flavours, and the art of appreciating fine wine.  Children and dogs are welcome and you are encouraged to bring a picnic to enjoy afterwards in the most tranquil of settings. Details and booking here.


pic credit: Oatley Vineyard

8. Are you a gin lover?  Then discover how the mythical Dryad Gin is created by booking a private personalised Botanical Walk and tasting with distiller Becky Wright on the Quantock Hills.  She will take you on a journey into the natural botanicals growing on the moors and tell you the story of Dryads and the love affair that ensued.  You will be treated to a blended gin-tasting with a dash of immersive storytelling and a generous glug of entrepreneurial expertise.  Contact Becky hello@dryadgin.co.uk to arrange your individual adventure or sign up for one of their guided group walks such as the Solstice Story Walk.  All events are listed here.  

pic credit: Dryad Gin

9. Rich’s is family run and they have been making traditional Somerset Cider for over 60 years.  Join a tour to explore the orchards, see traditional oak vats in action, and gain insight into the craft of turning apples into award-winning cider.  Led by knowledgeable guides, this immersive experience offers a behind-the-scenes look at the production process, from harvesting to fermentation and concludes with a guided tasting of the full Rich’s Cider range.  Tours run on select dates with options to enjoy a pint, carvery, or cream tea afterwards, tickets start from £10.


pic credit: Rich's Cider

On this remarkable coast you are spoilt for choice with activities and experiences.  To find out more contact our friendly, knowledgeable teams at the tourist information centres who will be happy to help.
·           Burnham Information Centre and Rescue Support
·           Bridgwater Town Council
·           Watchet Visitor Centre
·           Dunster National Park Centre
·           Porlock Information Centre
 
This project is funded by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, with Somerset Council being the lead local authority for UKSPF in Somerset.
 
The UK Shared Prosperity Fund aims to improve pride in place and increase life chances across the UK investing in communities and place, supporting local business, and people and skills.  For more information, click here.