Retreats: with Ben Lowe

"My partner and I had a wonderful time at Ben's retreat, I found him very helpful and supportive giving ideas and occasional input without taking away from what I wanted to achieve. I throughly enjoyed the time we spent at the barn and couldn’t not mention the fabulous food prepared by Bianca! We received our framed pictures a few days after which was great." - CLAIRE

 

 'A wonderful painting experience with Ben. The beautiful setting, relaxed atmosphere and Ben’s guidance made it both inspiring and enjoyable. Bianca’s delicious food and thoughtful hospitality were the perfect finishing touch. Thank you both for a truly memorable experience — I’ll treasure the paintings and memories for years to come.' - GRANT

 

 'A wonderful retreat spent with Ben... opened my eyes to really see colour and form and gave me the confidence to be brave.' - GAIL

  • Two Day Abstract Painting Retreat

    at Ben's Cotswold Studio

    A relaxed, hands-on painting retreat in rural Gloucestershire, set within 500 acres of peaceful woodland. Over two days, you’ll work on a single painting from start to finish; building it step by step, trying things out, and seeing where it takes you. It’s open to all levels, whether you’re just starting out or looking to loosen up your approach. The focus is on enjoying the process; experimenting, making a few bold decisions, and not worrying too much about getting everything “right.” There’ll be guidance along the way, plenty of encouragement, and space to explore your own ideas. At its core, it’s about switching off, getting stuck in, and making something that you’re genuinely proud of.

  • DAY 1, EASING IN

    DAY 1

    EASING IN

    We’ll start by getting to know one another over coffee and settling into the space. Ben will run you through how to prepare canvases, but yours will already be ready to go; so you can get straight into painting. From there, it’s about getting some marks down without overthinking it. A few (optional) simple exercises will help loosen things up, find a direction, and get your painting underway with confidence.

  • DAY 2, BUILD & DEVELOP

    DAY 2

    BUILD & DEVELOP

    You’ll spend time building on what you started; adjusting, adding, and sometimes reworking areas to see what really works. There’ll be guidance throughout, but also plenty of space to follow your own instincts. It’s about staying open, trying things out, and letting the painting evolve without too much pressure.

  • BREAK TIME, PAUSE. REFRESH.

    BREAK TIME

    PAUSE. REFRESH.

    Lunch and refreshments are included each day, with a focus on delicious, well-prepared food. It’s a chance to take a proper break, enjoy the setting, and come back to your painting with fresh eyes.

    Sample menu:

    Coffee with chocolate, raspberry & miso brownies

    ------

    Seared steak, chopped broccoli salad with peanut and goji dressing

    Green leaf salad, homemade bread sticks

    -----

    Tea with homemade fudge or cranberry & pistachio biscotti

  • THE LOCATION

    ESCAPE AND EXPLORE

  • EVENINGS OUT

    LOCAL FAVOURITES

  • WHERE TO STAY

    LOCAL AND RECOMMENDED

  • NEXT RETREAT: 3rd & 4th November 2026

    2 places remaining. £650pp. Register your interest or ask a question.
    ENQUIRE

  • FAQs

    Everything you need to know

    Q. What hours is the course?

    A. 10am-4pm but you're free to come and go whenever. 

    Q. How much does it cost?

    A. £650pp for 2 days - inclusive of all materials, lunch and refreshments. 

    Q. Can you frame our canvas?

    A. Yes - Ben can frame and deliver your finished artwork (charges apply).

    Q. Can we make an exclusive booking on another date?

    A. Yes - please enquire. 1, 2 or 3 day retreats available. POA.

    Q. Is there parking?

    A. Yes.

    Q. Where exactly is it?

    A. Ben's studio is in rural Gloucestershire nearest towns; Stroud (15 min) Cheltenham (25 min)

    Q. Is there anything to do nearby?

    A. The studio is set amongst 500 acres of wooded nature reserve; perfect for walks or trail running.

    Q. Where can I/we stay?

    A. Have a look at our local accomodation and restaurant recommendations. More options on request.

    Q. How many people will be on the retreat?

    A. Usually four.

    Q. Do I need to bring anything special?

    A. Just some messy clothes and any inspirational/preparatory material should you have any. If you like listening to music while you work then please bring headphones and if you'd like to explore the trails then pack your walking boots and a rain coat.

    Q. What materials will we be using?

    A. Because of time constraints we'll be using acrylic/water-based materials.

    Q. Is it cold in the studio?

    A. The studio is heated but we recommend bringing a jumper

    Q. Is the studio wheelchair friendly?

    A. The studio itself (and toilet block) are both wheelchair-friendly but there is a short flight of steps to negotiate for the studio itself.

    Q. I'm a fussy eater!

    A. We always have a great selection to cover all bases but do let us know beforehand if you're worried or have allergies.

    Q. What happens if I can't finish my work in time.

    A.Don't worry, we're flexible and will make sure you get everything done eventually.

    Q. Is there internet and phone reception?

    A. Yes. Although it's quite slow and patchy. Phones should be switched off in the studio.