Foraging Basket Making Workshop (One-Day)

with Tess Wakeling

Thursday 24th September 2026

£150.00

Spend a day at Highgrove discovering the timeless craft of willow basketry, using a range of willow varieties sustainably grown in Somerset and Gloucestershire. Guided by Tess Wakeling, you’ll be introduced to the traditional art of basket making and taken step by step through the process of creating a basket that is both practical and beautiful.

Please note, this is a one-day workshop.

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All profits are donated to charity

Foraging Basket Making Workshop (One-Day)

Foraging Basket Making Workshop (One-Day)

£150.00

£150.00

Create your own masterpiece

Working with the classic stake and strand technique, you’ll learn several weave patterns as you shape a round basket, with time to add a handle if possible. Finished pieces are ideal for berry picking, collecting eggs, or similar uses. The course is suitable for complete beginners and can also be adapted for those with some previous basket-making experience.

A hands-on day out with a delicious lunch

After an immersive morning of creativity, transition to the elegant Orchard Room for a delightful lunch. Surrounded by the beauty of nature and the echoes of your artistic endeavours, savour a meal that complements the day's experiences.

Programme

  • 10:00am - Guests arrive and morning refreshments are served
  • 10:15am - Workshop session begins
  • 1:00pm - Lunch is served
  • 2:00pm - Workshop session resumes
  • 4:30pm - Guests depart

About Tess

Tess began working with willow over 10 years ago. Her basketry work encompasses contemporary lighting, woven bags, sculpture, and installation projects.

During her studies for a City and Guilds qualification, she became hooked on exploring the endless ways pattern and texture can be achieved with woven materials. She now works mainly with willow, which connects her to the land and to a craft that is both functional and beautiful.

Tess now mainly works on commission, making bespoke willow lighting and selling wearable baskets. One of her lampshades was featured in Country Living’s ‘Modern Rustic.’

Alongside her studio practice, she teaches basketmaking, both to the public and to young people as a therapeutic craft. She loves to pass on this ancient skill to others. To witness the healing potential of working with natural materials and the joy that making your own basket can bring.

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Important Information

  • Guests will not be admitted without a valid ticket.
  • Although guests will be dining from a set menu, if you do have any dietary requirements, food intolerances, or allergies, please inform the Customer Service team no later than 2 weeks prior to your event at events@highgrovegardens.com.
  • Tickets cannot be exchanged, refunded, or replaced. Reselling, altering, or defacing a ticket will render it void.
  • Guests are required to bring photographic identification (i.e., a passport, driving license, or bus pass). Alternatively, a bank card is acceptable.
  • Accessibility and visitor well-being are very important to us. Should you have any additional requirements, please contact customerservices@highgrovegardens.com.
  • Smoking (including vaping) is not permitted anywhere on the Estate.
  • Please do not bring dogs onto the Estate (only assistance and guide dogs permitted).
  • Satellite navigation should only be used as a general guide. Please visit www.highgrovegardens.com/pages/directions for directions. what3words: presuming.episodes.talent
  • Please note that this event does not include a tour of the gardens.
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