Take Me to the Lakes: An Enchanting Creative Retreat in the Heart of the Lake District

Discover the enchanting landscapes that inspired generations of artists, poets, and dreamers in the heart of the Lakes

Imagine This....

Imagine a world where the frenetic pulse of modern life fades into the background, and time itself seems to take a gentle breath.

Picture a place where nature's canvas unfolds in lush hues of emerald and sapphire, offering a sanctuary of stillness and wonder.  

Here, every breath is filled with the crisp, invigorating air of ancient woodlands and tranquil waters, soothing your overstimulated senses and weary soul.

In this enchanted land, where the morning mist weaves enchantment into the air and the twilight bathes the world in hues of lavender and indigo, you will find a refuge designed for those who are sensitive dreamers, seekers of solace.

The Lake District, with its rolling hills and serene lakes, has long been a balm for artists and poets, a timeless realm where imagination is free to roam.  

Do you long to wander these storied paths, tracing the footsteps of Beatrix Potter, William Wordsworth, Samuel Taylor Coleridge and Taylor Swift?

 Can you feel the echoes of their poetic spirits mingling with the breeze, urging you to write your own story?

As you explore, will you find the lakes, their glassy surfaces reflecting the ever-changing skies, becoming mirrors for your thoughts and dreams?

Do you envision the hills, lush and embracing, cradling your musings as they stretch toward the heavens?  

So let me take you to the lakes, where the world slows, and creativity blossoms in the heart of nature’s most enchanting masterpiece.

Embrace the Magic of the Lake District 

"I want auroras and sad prose, 
I want to watch wisteria grow right over my bare feet, 
‘Cause I haven’t moved in years, 
And I want you right here..."

– Taylor Swift, the Lakes, Folklore (Republic, 2020)  

Welcome to a haven where nature and artistry intertwine, where the whispers of the Lake District beckon you to a realm of reflection and inspiration. 

At The Academy of the Enchanted Arts, we invite you to embark on a transformative journey with our exclusive retreat, Take Me to the Lakes.  

Embrace the Magic of the Lake District Nestled in the serene embrace of England’s most picturesque landscapes, the Lake District is a muse for dreamers and creators alike. 

Our retreat, inspired by the ethereal beauty of Taylor Swift’s Folklore and the legacy of its literary and artistic titans, offers a sanctuary for those seeking to ignite their creativity and connect with nature.

Retreat Overview: Early Autumn 2025 (September/October)

Location: A secluded, picturesque venue in the Lake District

 Group Size: An intimate gathering of 10-15 participants

Special Performance: A live string quartet serenade featuring Taylor Swift’s Folklore and Evermore classics

Meet The Creatives Of The Lake District

As you step into the enchanting embrace of the Lake District, you will find yourself guided by the spirits of those whose artistry was deeply entwined with this magical landscape. In our retreat, we will journey through the lives and works of three remarkable creatives whose legacies continue to inspire and captivate. Each of them, in their own way, has captured the essence of this land, leaving behind a legacy of beauty and imagination.

William Wordsworth: The Poet of Nature

Wander through the same mist-laden moors and sunlit valleys that inspired William Wordsworth, the celebrated Romantic poet whose verses breathe life into the landscape. Known for his profound connection to nature and his belief in its power to elevate the human spirit, Wordsworth’s poetry reflects a deep reverence for the natural world. His home, Dove Cottage, nestled in the heart of the Lake District, remains a testament to his enduring love for this land. As you explore the trails and vistas that shaped his work, let Wordsworth’s eloquent reflections guide your own creative journey.

Samuel Taylor Coleridge: The Visionary Poet

Delve into the imaginative realms of Samuel Taylor Coleridge, whose visionary poetry and profound insights echo through the ages. Coleridge, a close friend and collaborator of Wordsworth, wove fantastical elements into his writings, inspired by the mystical landscapes and rich folklore of the Lake District. His epic poems and hauntingly beautiful verses are infused with the very spirit of the region. Walk the paths that sparked his creativity and feel the echoes of his imaginative worlds come to life as you uncover the inspirations behind his most celebrated works.

Beatrix Potter: The Storyteller of the Lakes

Meet Beatrix Potter, the beloved author and illustrator whose charming tales of woodland creatures have enchanted generations. Potter’s deep love for the Lake District not only inspired her enchanting stories but also led her to become a dedicated conservationist, preserving the very landscapes she cherished. Her charming illustrations and delightful characters are a vivid reflection of the natural beauty surrounding her. As you visit Hill Top, her quaint farmhouse and creative sanctuary, you will discover the world that inspired her whimsical tales and connect with the magic of her storytelling.

Take Me To The Lakes: The Itinerary 

Get ready to immerse yourself in a world where blooms speak, art whispers, and melodies bloom. Your journey into the enchanting realm of The Lake District takes the following pathway:

Day 1: Arrival & Immersion Afternoon

As you arrive at our secluded retreat venue, nestled within the heart of the Lake District, feel the world’s weight lift from your shoulders. The landscape, a tapestry of rolling hills and serene waters, welcomes you. Settle into your cosy quarters, where the soft hum of nature replaces the noise of daily life. Evening: Gather around a glowing fire, where stories are shared, and new friendships bloom. As the night deepens, let the stars above and the warm embrace of the fire weave the first threads of inspiration into your heart.

Day 2: Nature & Artistic Inspiration

Morning: Set out on a guided nature walk through landscapes that have sparked the imaginations of painters and poets alike. Breathe in the crisp air, feel the earth beneath your feet, and let the whispers of the wind carry stories of the past. Afternoon: Choose your path of creation—paint en plein air, pen poetry, or write lyrics inspired by the morning’s journey. Let the beauty of the Lake District guide your hand as you translate the landscape’s majesty into your art. Evening: Share your creations in a circle of like-minded souls, where every brushstroke, word, and note is celebrated. Discuss the artists who once roamed these lands, leaving behind a legacy of beauty and inspiration.

Day 3: Beatrix Potter’s World

Morning: Venture to Hill Top, the enchanting home of Beatrix Potter. Wander through her gardens, where the characters of her stories first came to life. Afternoon: Return to the retreat for a time of creative freedom. Whether you choose to explore the surroundings, work on your projects, or simply be, this is your time to connect with your inner muse. Evening: As the day fades, join your fellow creators for a shared meal and reflections on Beatrix Potter’s enduring and enchanting legacy inspire new ideas.

Day 4: Taylor Swift’s Inspirations

Morning: Delve into the lyrical beauty of Taylor Swift’s The Lakes as we explore the song’s deep connections to the Lake District’s poetic heritage. Discover how Wordsworth and other Romantic poets influenced her work, and let these inspirations guide your own creative expression. Afternoon: Use the insights from the morning to develop your own creative projects—be it writing, art, or music—infusing them with the magic of Swift’s lyrics and the timeless beauty of the Lake District. Evening: As twilight descends, be swept away by a live performance that will bring Taylor Swift’s Folklore and Evermore albums to life.

Day 5: Reflection & Farewell

Morning: In your final creative session, weave together the threads of inspiration you’ve gathered. Bring your projects to fruition, guided by the wisdom and beauty of the days spent in the Lakes. Afternoon: Share your completed works with the group in a celebration of creativity and connection. As you enjoy a final meal together, reflect on the journey you’ve taken and the lasting bonds you’ve formed. Departure: With hearts full and minds brimming with new ideas, bid farewell to the Lake District, taking with you the memories of a retreat that has touched your soul.

Extras to Enchant Your Journey.....

As you embark on this magical retreat, let the extras be the shimmering threads that weave enchantment into your experience....

These thoughtfully crafted elements are here to elevate your journey, making each moment of your retreat as memorable as the landscape that surrounds you.

BONUS 1

Enchanted Goody Bag

Step into a world of wonder with a curated collection designed to spark your creativity and delight your senses. Inside, you’ll find beautifully crafted notebooks perfect for capturing your inspirations, a set of art supplies to bring your visions to life, and other exquisite literary treasures you’ll want to cherish. Delight in a selection of poetry books that echo the timeless beauty of the Lake District, alongside prints that capture the essence of this magical land. Each item is a piece of the mystery waiting to be unveiled, inviting you to immerse yourself in the creative journey that lies ahead.  

BONUS 2

Bespoke Workbook

Unveil your creative potential with our beautifully printed, bespoke workbook. Crafted to complement the retreat’s themes, this elegant workbook features inspirational prompts, space for reflection, and creative exercises designed to enhance your artistic journey. With its stunning design and high-quality paper, it’s more than just a tool and I long for it to be a keepsake to treasure and a space to capture the sparks of inspiration that will flow throughout your time in the Lake District.

BONUS 3

Elegant Accommodation 

Your retreat experience includes accommodations that reflect the serene beauty of the Lake District. We’ve selected a venue that blends comfort with elegance, offering cosy, thoughtfully designed spaces where you can unwind and recharge. Nestled in the heart of nature, your accommodations will provide a perfect sanctuary after your days of creative exploration. Enjoy restful nights and picturesque views that will enhance your retreat experience, ensuring that your stay is as inspiring as the surroundings.

Meet Your Guide

Hi, I'm Georgie (she/her)

Let's discover the Lake's Enchantment together

Hi, I’m Georgie, founder of 'Academy Of The Enchanted Arts', former founder of internationally renowned handmade hair accessory boutique 'Beauxoxo', curator of the enchanted living blog 'Georgie xoxo' and a mentor for creative soulful entrepreneurs.

Once upon a time, whilst deeply unsatisfied with my rigid art and music history education, coupled with managing spiralling chronic health conditions and an unaligned University environment, I became deeply depressed and longed to open my own online school that focussed on the symbiotic relationship between the arts.  

Fast forward to today, I'm now on a deeply personal mission to inspire creative, highly-sensitive and enchanted souls just like you to experience arts education steeped in enchantment so that you are able to enter into a world of deep reverence and awe.    

When I hear a piece of music, or when I look at a great work of art, to me it's a portal to the divine through the door that the artists have left open.    

These creatives truly are the mystics that continue to grace us with their gifts so that we can then walk through their door and experience the world around us with more awe and wonder than we could possibly imagine.

It is with this sense of rapture and awe in relation to the arts that I guide my students in the Academy so that you can marvel at the wonders of the history of art and music.

If you have even resonated with 5% of the above, I know we’ve not met by accident, and that we were destined to meet. I can't wait to meet and welcome you into the Academy!

Your Questions Answered....

The Take Me to the Lakes Retreat is a five-day, immersive creative experience set in the enchanting Lake District. Designed to inspire artists, writers, and dreamers, the retreat blends the natural beauty of the Lakes with guided workshops, creative sessions, and explorations of the region’s rich artistic and literary heritage.

This retreat is ideal for anyone seeking to deepen their creative practice, whether you're a painter, poet, writer, musician, or someone looking for inspiration. It’s perfect for those who appreciate the beauty of nature, are fans of Taylor Swift’s Folklore, or are interested in the artistic and literary history of the Lake District.

The retreat will take place in early autumn 2025 (September/October) in a secluded, picturesque location in the Lake District. The exact venue will be confirmed closer to the event date.

Joining the waiting list for the Take Me to the Lakes retreat is a way to express your interest without any immediate pressure to commit. It simply helps us gauge the level of interest and understand the demand for the retreat. Being on the waiting list ensures that you will be among the first to receive exclusive updates, early access to registration, and potentially special discounts and extra treats when the official sign-up opens. There is no obligation or pressure to join once registration begins; it's merely an opportunity to stay informed and be prepared to secure your spot if and when you are ready.

The retreat includes a mix of guided nature walks, creative workshops, visits to historic sites like Beatrix Potter’s home, and personal creative time. You’ll also enjoy a private string quartet performance of Taylor Swift’s Folklore and Evermore songs. Each day is designed to inspire and nurture your creativity, with opportunities to engage in art, writing, and reflection.

The retreat is designed to be intimate, with a group size of 10-12 participants. This allows for personalised attention and a close-knit community atmosphere.

Bring your preferred creative tools (e.g., notebook, laptop, art supplies), comfortable clothing for outdoor activities, and an open heart ready to embrace inspiration. A more detailed packing list will be provided closer to the event date.

The retreat package includes accommodations for four nights, all meals and refreshments, guided workshops and activities, a private string quartet performance, and a thoughtfully curated goody bag.

Absolutely! The retreat is open to all levels of experience. Whether you’re an accomplished artist or just beginning your creative journey, you’ll find inspiration and support in our sessions.

Currently, we are accepting sign-ups for the waiting list and you can join this by leaving your name and email at the bottom of this sales page. Once registration opens, those on the waiting list will have the first opportunity to secure their spot. To join the waiting list, please visit our sales page and enter your details.

The pricing details will be finalised closer to the event, but rest assured it will reflect the high-quality experience we aim to provide. Those on the waiting list will receive early access to pricing and registration.

Yes, the itinerary includes free time each day for personal reflection, exploration of the beautiful surroundings, or working on your creative projects. You can use this time to relax, recharge, or engage in activities that inspire you.

Your safety is my number one priority. I will follow all necessary health guidelines and protocols to ensure a safe and comfortable experience for all participants. Detailed safety information will be provided closer to the event.

Absolutely. As someone living with multiple chronic illnesses, I’ve designed this retreat with an understanding of the unique challenges that come with managing health conditions. Every aspect of the Take Me to the Lakes retreat is crafted with sensitivity to varying energy levels and the need for flexibility. The retreat is intended to be gentle, supportive, and mindful of everyone’s capabilities.

The activities are designed to be low-energy and accessible. We’ll be engaging in gentle nature walks, creative workshops, and relaxed group discussions. All activities are optional, and you’re encouraged to participate at your own pace. If you need to rest or take breaks, that is completely okay—I’ve structured the retreat to accommodate different energy levels, recognising that I, too, would need this consideration.

Our retreat venue is chosen with accessibility in mind. If you have specific accessibility needs, please let me know, and I will work to ensure that accommodations are in place to support your participation. I'm deeply committed to making the retreat a welcoming space for everyone, regardless of physical abilities.

The retreat is intentionally small and intimate, allowing for personalised care and attention. I will ensure that everyone has the space they need to feel comfortable and supported. The pace of the retreat is gentle, with plenty of opportunities to relax, enjoy the surroundings, and connect with others in a way that feels right for you.

That’s completely understandable. The retreat is designed to be flexible, with plenty of time for rest and personal reflection. You’re welcome to participate in as much or as little as you feel comfortable with. The environment is supportive and understanding, and there’s no pressure to do more than you’re able.

Your comfort and well-being are top priorities. We will work closely with our catering team to ensure all dietary needs and allergies are fully accommodated. When you sign up, you’ll have the opportunity to provide details about your requirements, and I'll make sure your meals are tailored to your needs. I myself have a dairy intolerance so I deeply understand!

If you have any more questions or need further information, please don’t hesitate to contact me via email at georgie@academyoftheenchantedarts.com or through our contact form on the website.  

"Thank you for bringing us such richness and depth of the exquisite world of art and it’s history."

Shirley Ann Aphrodite
Artist 

Join the Waiting List for the Take Me to the Lakes Retreat

Enter your details below to join the waiting list and receive exclusive updates about the retreat. I can’t wait to welcome you to this magical experience!

Be the first to know when registration opens for the Take Me to the Lakes Retreat, an enchanting creative journey through the heart of the Lake District.

Immerse yourself in the same landscapes that inspired generations of artists, writers, and dreamers.

With limited spaces available, securing your spot early ensures you don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to awaken your creativity amid the breathtaking beauty of the Lakes.

Please note that there is no obligation or pressure to join once registration begins; it's merely an opportunity to stay informed and be prepared to secure your spot if and when you are ready.

Let the spirit of the Lakes guide you on a journey of creativity, connection, and enchantment. I can’t wait to welcome you.

With love and enchantment,
Georgie xoxo

I have read and agree to the terms & conditions.

“A red rose grew up out of ice frozen ground,
With no one around to tweet it,

While I bathe in cliffside pools,
With my calamitous love and insurmountable grief…”


Experience the beauty. Embrace the inspiration. Create your own tale

Unfold your story amidst the magic of the Lake District

Disclaimer: Please note that the Take Me to the Lakes retreat is an independent event inspired by the works of Taylor Swift, specifically her albums Folklore and Evermore. This retreat is not officially affiliated with Taylor Swift or her management. All references to her music and themes are used to celebrate and draw inspiration from her artistry as well as many other creatives throughout art, music and literature throughout the centuries. 
 
Do you have a question about the this retreat from the Academy Of The Enchanted Arts? Please email me at georgie@academyoftheenchantedarts.com

© Academy Of The Enchanted Arts