CRAFTY breaks

Discover a new hobby – or get back into an old favourite pastime – on one of these dedicated retreats

- ALICIA MILLER.

Whether you're looking to take your knitting up a notch or have always dreamt of giving glassmaking a go, you can combine immersive tuition with a relaxing holiday on these themed breaks.

Glassmaking in Cheshire

The retreat At the Cheshire School of Glass, you'll learn techniques in making glass, whether your interests lie in colourful stained panels or elaborate 'fused' glass (great for making Christmas decorations, for example). A two-day stained glass workshop, typically held around once a month, is ideal for beginners and will help you get a handle on all the essentials.

The location Set in the quiet village of Frodsham, the school is a short drive to Cheshire capital Chester – home to Roman walls, half-timbered architecture and a cathedral to explore, plus some lovely boutique hotels such as the Chester Grosvenor (chestergrosvenor.com).

* Two-day Learn Stained Glass course from £355, excluding accommodation; cheshireschoolofglass.co.uk