Free - Things to do for Families on Holiday

Discover a captivating indoor adventure at The Colour Makers House in Appleby, which is perfect for a cold, wet day with your children. Join local artist Mark as you transform molehills and rocks into exquisite watercolours and learn the art of alchemy in pigment-making. Create memorable artwork to take home while enjoying an engaging experience that delights kids and adults. Visitors rave about the fascinating workshops and Mark's natural teaching skills, making it a must-visit destination for families looking for creative fun.

These free demonstrations last around 45 minutes and show how artists have made paints and pigments for centuries. They occur on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.

This is what our visitors say: -

The six-year-old was so engaged, and the 13-year-old daughter enjoyed it; it was such a fascinating afternoon. We were all fascinated - Sarah & Andy, Bowes.

Couldn't have been more impressed with our tailored pigment workshop from Mark. Enthralled from start to finish. Didn't want to leave. A natural teacher and such a welcoming guy. I highly recommend visiting the Colour Makers House in Bri, Manchester.

Mark generously gave up his Christmas Eve to allow my partner and me to experience his Pigment workshop.
I am by no means an artist, but I must say I was utterly absorbed.
This was an excellent workshop led by Mark, who is passionate about Colour and pigment and effortlessly conveys that passion. Mark himself is hugely easygoing, friendly, and a breeze to listen to, making it easy to take it all in. Brilliant.
Cannot recommend it enough. We will be back! - Alex, Guildford

Thank you, Mark, for a fantastic morning of learning and experimenting with how to make beautiful pigments. You truly inspired us, and we can’t wait to start our watercolour creative journey with your marvellous pigments. - The Hollis Family