Meaningful events for the fibre industry.

Intimate knitting retreats across the UK - from relaxed country escapes to our flagship Bath Luxury Retreat, with world-class guest instructors.

Max + Vincent of Les Garçons at Bath this November!

A little bit about us

Founder Carmen Schmidt gets excited about bringing people together and fostering connection and relationships that last well beyond the event itself. Whether it’s discussing the latest trends among yarn shop owners or sitting around the fire sharing stitches and personal stories with knitters, we aim to create meaningful events that leave you feeling refreshed and fulfilled.

Various retreats, one philosophy: slow down, make friends, knit.

From our flagship in Bath to relaxed country escapes - every retreat we run is built around good teaching and good company.

All of our retreats run for a total of four nights which offers all attendees the chance to settle in, relax, get to know one another and of course, knit! Some of the retreats are what we call our Classic Country House Retreat, focused on relaxing and enjoying the company of other knitters while others centre on a specific topic.

Retreats are hosted by Carmen and her team at A Yarn Story as well as beloved Customer Relationship Manager, Peaches the Irish Setter. Peaches is a fan of the long walks and excessive cuddles at retreats.

Retreats run Monday - Friday with arrival on the evening of the first day and departure the morning of the final day. Price includes all meals and beverages at the retreat, including wine at dinner and cocktail hour, a delicious goodie bag, and instruction depending on the type of retreat you attend. 

  • "I came away from the retreat feeling recharged and full of ideas and inspiration after spending time in a beautiful place with fantastic new knitting friends. We were so well looked after by Carmen and the team, I really hope I get to go again soon."

    Jenny

  • "I have been lucky enough to attend several of the ‘Country House Retreats’ over recent years, and they have become a wonderful sanctuary for me. That magical place where you relax the moment you walk through the door. A place where I have had the pleasure of making new friends, learning new things, whilst being looked after in sumptuous surroundings. Wonderful from start to finish!"

    Fiona

  • "I’ve just returned from my first Classic experience which really did put the “treat” into “retreat”. It was so much fun to spend a few days relaxing in a beautiful environment with like-minded people. Lots of laughter, and friendship, as well as delicious food, wine and cake. I learned lots from others’ experiences as well as taking advantage of the expertise of Carmen and Amanda. And of course, lots of cuddles with Peaches too! I definitely hope to return"

    Mel

  • "The retreat was the perfect place to unplug, unwind and recharge. The location is stunning and being with like-minded new friends was a gift. I loved the yoga session and being able to slip off for a nap if needed. There was no pressure to join in everything and if you wanted to do your own thing and just hang out and knit that was okay too. Looking forward to joining again in the future!"

    Allison