Need help with your booking call 01473 357 036

Stitchtopia Craft Holidays

39 tours from £475pp

Arena Travel is proud to present Stitchtopia craft holidays - a wonderful collection of knitting, crochet, patchwork & quilting, textile, and embroidery & cross stitch holidays uniquely crafted with you in mind!

Specially created for small groups of like-minded people, our Stitchtopia craft holidays embrace all things textile. Each holiday has been carefully designed by our dedicated team of travel experts, who share your passion for crafting. The attention is in the detail and we’ll ensure you enjoy a seamless travel experience as you explore the textile heritage of some of the world’s most exotic destinations, as well as the rich textile traditions around our own UK shores. Every holiday is accompanied by a well-known and enthusiastic expert, and under their friendly guidance you can learn new and different crafting techniques. A Stitchtopia holiday is a great way to make new crafting friends, and no doubt you’ll pick up lots of tips as you share exciting experiences. 


Janice Gunner & more

By far the most popular event in our programme, Stitchtopia Festival is back! This is the ultimate weekend residential event for all crafters.

  • 2 nights full-board accommodation, from dinner on Friday to lunch on Sunday
  • Up to four half-day workshops with our experts, kit cost extra
  • Unlimited tea and coffee during workshop breaks
  • Evening talks and entertainment

Availability:

  • 2024
    • Jan
    • Feb
    • Mar
    • Apr
    • May
    • Jun
    • Jul
    • Aug
    • Sep
    • Oct
    • Nov
    • Dec
Lucy of Attic24
NEW

Join Attic24's Lucy on a 3-night crochet retreat, enjoying 2 full days of workshops and a behind-the-scenes tour of Stylecrafts Mill.

  • 3 nights full-board accommodation
  • Crochet workshops with Lucy, kit included
  • Services of an experienced Tour Manager
  • A visit to Stylecraft Yarns

Availability:

  • 2024
    • Jan
    • Feb
    • Mar
    • Apr
    • May
    • Jun
    • Jul
    • Aug
    • Sep
    • Oct
    • Nov
    • Dec
Hazel Tindall & more

Discover the breathtaking Shetland Islands, whose past is interwoven with a rich history of wool, textiles and inimitable Fair Isle technique.

  • Return flights from Edinburgh to Sumburgh including 1 piece of checked luggage
  • 2 half-day workshops on Shetland Fair Isle with Hazel Tindall
  • 2 half day workshops on Shetland Lace
  • 5 nights half-board accommodation
  • Entrance fees and excursions
  • Services of an experienced Tour Manager

Availability:

  • 2024
    • Jan
    • Feb
    • Mar
    • Apr
    • May
    • Jun
    • Jul
    • Aug
    • Sep
    • Oct
    • Nov
    • Dec
Anna Nikipirowicz
NEW

Join Anna Nikipirowicz for this Christmas crochet weekend retreat at Staverton Park & Golf Club.

  • 2 nights full-board accommodation, from dinner on Friday to lunch on Sunday
  • 2 days tuition with Anna, kit included
  • Tea/coffee during workshops
  • Complimentary WiFi
  • Use of the hotel leisure facilities (subject to availability); gym, heated indoor swimming pool, Jacuzzi, sauna and steam room

Availability:

  • 2024
    • Jan
    • Feb
    • Mar
    • Apr
    • May
    • Jun
    • Jul
    • Aug
    • Sep
    • Oct
    • Nov
    • Dec
Katrina í Geil

Discover the rugged beauty and rich knitting history of the remote Faroe Islands under the guidance of local expert, Katrina í Geil.

  • Return flights from Edinburgh to Vagar with 1 piece of hold luggage
  • 7 nights bed and breakfast in 4-star accommodation
  • Welcome and farewell dinners at the hotel
  • 5 half-day knitting workshops with Katrina í Geil, kit included
  • Services of an experienced Tour Manager
  • 1 full-day and 1 half-day sightseeing tour, including visits to local textile designers

Availability:

  • 2024
    • Jan
    • Feb
    • Mar
    • Apr
    • May
    • Jun
    • Jul
    • Aug
    • Sep
    • Oct
    • Nov
    • Dec
Anna Nikipirowicz

Expert Anna Nikipirowicz offers the perfect introduction to crocheting socks on this wonderful weekend break!

  • 2 nights full-board accommodation, from dinner on Friday to lunch on Sunday
  • 2 days tuition with Anna Nikipirowicz, kit included
  • Tea/coffee during workshops
  • Complimentary WiFi
  • Use of the hotel leisure facilities (subject to availability); gym, heated indoor swimming pool, Jacuzzi, sauna and steam room

Availability:

  • 2023
    • Jan
    • Feb
    • Mar
    • Apr
    • May
    • Jun
    • Jul
    • Aug
    • Sep
    • Oct
    • Nov
    • Dec
Karin Hellaby
NEW

Staying in the heart of Athens, explore the city’s archaeological treasures and fascinating history, and enjoy workshops with Karin Hellaby.

  • 6 nights bed and breakfast accommodation
  • Coach transfers throughout
  • 1 lunch and 2 dinners
  • Workshop with Karin Hellaby, kit included
  • Services of an experienced Tour Manager
  • English-speaking guide at all visits
  • Destination taxes included
  • Travel package includes return flights from London to Athens, with 1 piece of checked luggage
  • Entrance fees and excursions

Availability:

  • 2024
    • Jan
    • Feb
    • Mar
    • Apr
    • May
    • Jun
    • Jul
    • Aug
    • Sep
    • Oct
    • Nov
    • Dec
Mandy Shaw
NEW

Join Mandy Shaw in Armenia, discovering Armenian embroidery, the local textiles, historical and cultural landmarks and stitching workshops.

  • Return flights from London to Armenia, checked luggage included
  • 8 nights bed and breakfast accomodation
  • 3 lunches and 4 dinners
  • Workshops with Mandy, kit included
  • Textile workshops with local artisans
  • Local English-speaking guide throughout the tour
  • Services of an experienced Tour Manager
  • Private coach transfers throughout
  • Excursions and entrance fees

Availability:

  • 2024
    • Jan
    • Feb
    • Mar
    • Apr
    • May
    • Jun
    • Jul
    • Aug
    • Sep
    • Oct
    • Nov
    • Dec
Sarah Smith
NEW

On the picturesque island of Madeira, join Sarah Smith in embroidery workshops and enjoy our two fantastic, included excursions.

  • 7 nights half-board accommodation
  • Return airport transfers
  • Workshops with Sarah, kit included
  • Local embroidery workshop
  • Local folklore dinner
  • Services of an experienced Tour Manager
  • Travel package includes return flights from London to Funchal, with 1 piece of checked luggage
  • Excursions and entrance fees

Availability:

  • 2024
    • Jan
    • Feb
    • Mar
    • Apr
    • May
    • Jun
    • Jul
    • Aug
    • Sep
    • Oct
    • Nov
    • Dec
Carol Meldrum

Exploring the Connemara countryside and the island of Inis Oírr, home to the traditional style of Aran knitting, join us in wonderful Galway.

  • 5 nights half-board accommodation
  • 1 lunch
  • Expert-led knitting and crochet workshops with Carol
  • Services of an experienced Tour Manager
  • Travel package includes return flights from London Heathrow to Shannon with 1 piece of hold luggage
  • Entrance fees and excursions

Availability:

  • 2024
    • Jan
    • Feb
    • Mar
    • Apr
    • May
    • Jun
    • Jul
    • Aug
    • Sep
    • Oct
    • Nov
    • Dec
Anna Nikipirowicz
NEW

Learn from our renowned expert, Anna Nikipirowicz, and explore the beautiful art of embroidery on crochet.

  • 2 nights full-board accommodation, from dinner on Friday to lunch on Sunday
  • 2 days tuition with Anna, kit included
  • Tea/coffee during workshops
  • Complimentary WiFi
  • Use of the hotel leisure facilities (subject to availability); gym, heated indoor swimming pool, Jacuzzi, sauna and steam room

Availability:

  • 2024
    • Jan
    • Feb
    • Mar
    • Apr
    • May
    • Jun
    • Jul
    • Aug
    • Sep
    • Oct
    • Nov
    • Dec
Anna Nikipirowicz
NEW

Staying in the wonderful Northamptonshire countryside, join Anna Nikipirowicz and make your own crochet wreath, a stunning celebration of spring.

  • 2 nights full-board accommodation, from dinner on Friday to lunch on Sunday
  • 2 days tuition with Anna, kit included
  • Tea/coffee during workshops
  • Complimentary WiFi
  • Use of the hotel leisure facilities (subject to availability); gym, heated indoor swimming pool, Jacuzzi, sauna and steam room

Availability:

  • 2024
    • Jan
    • Feb
    • Mar
    • Apr
    • May
    • Jun
    • Jul
    • Aug
    • Sep
    • Oct
    • Nov
    • Dec
Janet Clare

This lovely retreat combines Janet Clare's quilting workshops with excursions exploring the Swiss sights, textile history and chocolate!

  • 7 nights bed and breakfast in 3-star accommodation
  • 3 full-day and 1 half-day machine-quilting workshops with Janet Clare, using Bernina B590 machines
  • Lunch with morning and afternoon refreshments on workshop days
  • Services of an experienced Tour Manager
  • Travel package includes return flights from London to Zurich with 1 piece of hold luggage
  • Entrance fees and excursions

Availability:

  • 2024
    • Jan
    • Feb
    • Mar
    • Apr
    • May
    • Jun
    • Jul
    • Aug
    • Sep
    • Oct
    • Nov
    • Dec
Sarah Smith

Based in the heart of the Northamptonshire countryside, this retreat is the ideal opportunity to learn a new skill or indulge in your favourite hobby.

  • 2 nights’ full board accommodation, starting with dinner on Friday and ending with lunch on Sunday
  • Tea, coffee and snacks throughout the weekend
  • 2 full days of tuition from a qualified Royal School of Needlework tutor, with Kit
  • Services of an experienced Tour manager
  • Gratuities for driver and local tour guide
  • Kit included

Availability:

  • 2024
    • Jan
    • Feb
    • Mar
    • Apr
    • May
    • Jun
    • Jul
    • Aug
    • Sep
    • Oct
    • Nov
    • Dec
Julie Dubreux

On this superb holiday, enjoy workshops led by Julie Dubreux and discover the stunning scenery and traditional crafts of Ireland's west coast.

  • 5 nights half-board accommodation
  • 4 half-day knitting workshops with our expert, kit included
  • Services of an experienced Tour Manager
  • Travel package includes return flights from London Heathrow to Shannon with 1 piece of hold luggage and airport transfers
  • Excursions and entrance fees as described in the itinerary

Availability:

  • 2024
    • Jan
    • Feb
    • Mar
    • Apr
    • May
    • Jun
    • Jul
    • Aug
    • Sep
    • Oct
    • Nov
    • Dec
Anna Nikipirowicz & more

Experience the magical colours that form in the Arctic sky, cruise among the Norwegian fjords, and enjoy fantastic, expert-led workshops.

  • Return flights from London to Bergen and Kirkenes to London (via Oslo)
  • 6 nights accommodation on MS Polarlys (2023) or MS Nordlys (2024)
  • 1 night half-board accommodation in both Bergen and Kirkenes
  • A full programme of workshops with Anna (2023) or Carol (2024), knitting kit included
  • Services of an experienced Tour Manager
  • Excursions and entrance fees

Availability:

  • 2024
    • Jan
    • Feb
    • Mar
    • Apr
    • May
    • Jun
    • Jul
    • Aug
    • Sep
    • Oct
    • Nov
    • Dec
Janice Gunner

Join us in Japan and discover iconic tourist attractions, experience exclusive tours, and take part in crafting workshops.

  • 12 nights bed and breakfast in 3-star and 4-star hotels
  • Travel by coach and train in Japan
  • The company and knowledge of our expert, Janice Gunner
  • Services of an experienced Tour Manager
  • Services of a local English-speaking guide throughout the tour
  • Travel package includes return international flights
  • Excursions, entrance fees and workshops

Availability:

  • 2024
    • Jan
    • Feb
    • Mar
    • Apr
    • May
    • Jun
    • Jul
    • Aug
    • Sep
    • Oct
    • Nov
    • Dec
Mandy Shaw

Alongside expert Mandy Shaw, explore the UK’s northeast with tours of the Bowes Museum, Durham Cathedral, and Alnwick Castle and Alnwick Gardens.

  • 7 nights' bed and breakfast accommodation
  • 2 full days of hand-sewing workshops with Mandy Shaw, kit included
  • 4 dinners
  • Entrance fees and excursions included
  • Services of an experienced Tour Manager

Availability:

  • 2024
    • Jan
    • Feb
    • Mar
    • Apr
    • May
    • Jun
    • Jul
    • Aug
    • Sep
    • Oct
    • Nov
    • Dec
Carol Meldrum

Discover the highlights of the Scottish Highlands as you join Carol Meldrum for a week of knitting workshops and excursions.

  • 7 nights bed and breakfast accommodation with dinner on the first and final evenings
  • 2 and a half days of knitting workshops with Carol Meldrum, kit included
  • Beaded Dorset Buttons workshop with Tania Ashton Jones
  • Entrance fees and excursions
  • The services of an experienced Tour Manager

Availability:

  • 2023
    • Jan
    • Feb
    • Mar
    • Apr
    • May
    • Jun
    • Jul
    • Aug
    • Sep
    • Oct
    • Nov
    • Dec
  • 2024
    • Jan
    • Feb
    • Mar
    • Apr
    • May
    • Jun
    • Jul
    • Aug
    • Sep
    • Oct
    • Nov
    • Dec
Jane Crowfoot & more

Embrace knitting traditions, gaze out on Colca Canyon and take in the majestic views at Aguas Calientes alongside Carol Meldrum or Jane Crowfoot.

  • International flights
  • 13 nights bed and breakfast accommodation
  • 2 lunches and 2 dinners
  • 2 visits to incredible Machu Picchu included
  • Local English-speaking guide
  • Assistance from an Arena Travel Tour Manager
  • Excursions and entrance fees
  • 3 knitting workshops with our expert

Availability:

  • 2024
    • Jan
    • Feb
    • Mar
    • Apr
    • May
    • Jun
    • Jul
    • Aug
    • Sep
    • Oct
    • Nov
    • Dec
Frederica Patmore & more

Knit with Frederica Patmore or crochet with Anna Nikipirowicz on this fascinating holiday to Germany’s Black Forest.

  • Return flights from London Heathrow to Basel with 1 piece of hold luggage
  • 7 nights in 4-star accommodation with breakfast included
  • 3 full-day workshops with one of our experts, kit included
  • Services of an experienced Arena Travel Tour Manager
  • Entrance fees and excursions
  • Lunch and tea and coffee each morning and afternoon during workshop sessions
  • Dinner on the first and last night at the hotel

Availability:

  • 2024
    • Jan
    • Feb
    • Mar
    • Apr
    • May
    • Jun
    • Jul
    • Aug
    • Sep
    • Oct
    • Nov
    • Dec
Pat Archibald

On the Indonesian islands of Java and Bali, discover a fascinating textile history, beautiful beaches and exceptional architecture.

  • Travel package includes flights from London to Yogyakarta, returning from Bali, with 1 piece of hold luggage
  • 12 nights bed and breakfast 5-star accommodation
  • 3 full-day workshops with Pat Archibald, kit included
  • Local Batik workshops
  • Entrance fees and excursions
  • Services of an experienced Tour Manager

Availability:

  • 2024
    • Jan
    • Feb
    • Mar
    • Apr
    • May
    • Jun
    • Jul
    • Aug
    • Sep
    • Oct
    • Nov
    • Dec
Karin Hellaby

Join Karin Hellaby and discover the textiles of the Arabian Peninsula as you explore the countries of Oman and the United Arab Emirates.

  • Return flights from London to Dubai and Muscat to London with 1 piece of checked luggage included
  • 11 nights accommodation on bed and breakfast, plus 6 lunches and 10 dinners
  • 1 full and 1 half day workshop with Karin and tour accompanied by Karin throughout
  • Entrance fees and excursions
  • Services of an experienced Arena Travel Tour Manager

Availability:

  • 2024
    • Jan
    • Feb
    • Mar
    • Apr
    • May
    • Jun
    • Jul
    • Aug
    • Sep
    • Oct
    • Nov
    • Dec
Janice Gunner

Uncover Pennsylvania’s quilting traditions and enjoy two full days at QuiltCon alongside our expert Janice Gunner.

  • 8 nights accommodation in 3-star hotels
  • Internal flight from Philadelphia to Raleigh
  • 2 half-day workshops with Janice Gunner
  • Entrance to QuiltCon
  • Services of an experienced Tour Manager
  • Travel package includes return flights from London to Philadelphia and Raleigh to London with 1 piece of checked luggage
  • Entrance fees and excursions

Availability:

  • 2024
    • Jan
    • Feb
    • Mar
    • Apr
    • May
    • Jun
    • Jul
    • Aug
    • Sep
    • Oct
    • Nov
    • Dec
Janice Gunner
NEW

Join our expert, award-winning textile artist Janice Gunner, on an amazing trip exploring the textiles, culture and sights of South Korea.

  • Return economy class flight from London to Seoul with 1 piece of checked luggage
  • Internal flights from Busan to Jeju Island and Jeju Island to Seoul
  • 13 nights bed and breakfast accommodation in 4-star hotels
  • 7 dinners
  • Services of an experienced Tour Manager and an English-speaking local guide
  • Coach travel, sightseeing, entrance fees and workshops as described

Availability:

  • 2024
    • Jan
    • Feb
    • Mar
    • Apr
    • May
    • Jun
    • Jul
    • Aug
    • Sep
    • Oct
    • Nov
    • Dec
Lucy of Attic24
NEW

Enjoy a series of crochet workshops with Lucy of Attic24 and explore the fantastic cities of Porto and Lisbon on this twin-centre holiday.

  • Flights from London to Porto and Lisbon to London, with 1 piece of checked luggage
  • 7 nights 4-star bed and breakfast accommodation
  • Dinner on the first and last evenings
  • Workshops with Lucy, kit included
  • Entrance fees and excursions
  • Services of an experienced Tour Manager

Availability:

  • 2024
    • Jan
    • Feb
    • Mar
    • Apr
    • May
    • Jun
    • Jul
    • Aug
    • Sep
    • Oct
    • Nov
    • Dec
Karin Hellaby
NEW

Take in the textiles of Laos, Thailand and Cambodia, meet experts in antique and ethnic textiles, and enjoy workshops led by local experts.

  • Economy class international flights, including 1 piece of checked luggage
  • Airport transfers and excursions in private vehicle with air conditioning
  • 13 nights bed and breakfast accommodation
  • 9 lunches and 3 dinners
  • Internal flight Chiang Mai to Siem Reap
  • Company and expertise of Karin Hellaby throughout the tour
  • Local English-speaking guide in each country
  • Services of an experienced Tour Manager
  • Entrance fees, workshops and sightseeing as described in itinerary

Availability:

  • 2024
    • Jan
    • Feb
    • Mar
    • Apr
    • May
    • Jun
    • Jul
    • Aug
    • Sep
    • Oct
    • Nov
    • Dec
Carolyn Forster
NEW

Soak up the medieval charm of York during the festive season on this stitching holiday with Carolyn Forster, including Christmas market visits.

  • 4 nights bed and breakfast accommodation
  • 2 evening meals
  • Workshops with Carolyn Forster, kit included
  • Entrance fees and excursions
  • Services of an experienced Tour Manager

Availability:

  • 2024
    • Jan
    • Feb
    • Mar
    • Apr
    • May
    • Jun
    • Jul
    • Aug
    • Sep
    • Oct
    • Nov
    • Dec
Jane Greenoff
NEW

Explore Monet's Gardens, see both medieval and contemporary tapestries, and attend the Pour l'amour du l show alongside expert, Jane Greenoff.

  • Return crossing with Eurotunnel
  • 7 nights in 4-star accommodation
  • Coach travel on a Silver Service coach
  • Dinner on the first and last nights
  • Company and expertise of Jane Greenoff
  • Cross stitch project kit
  • Services of an experienced Tour Manager
  • Excursions and entrance fees as described in the itinerary

Availability:

  • 2024
    • Jan
    • Feb
    • Mar
    • Apr
    • May
    • Jun
    • Jul
    • Aug
    • Sep
    • Oct
    • Nov
    • Dec
Frederica Patmore
NEW

Join us for a festive 3-night retreat in Harrogate with Frederica Patmore. Enjoy creating several crochet and knitting Christmas-themed makes!

  • 3 nights half-board accommodation
  • Christmas-themed workshops with Frederica Patmore, kit included
  • Services of an experienced Tour Manager
  • Afternoon tea at Bettys

Availability:

  • 2024
    • Jan
    • Feb
    • Mar
    • Apr
    • May
    • Jun
    • Jul
    • Aug
    • Sep
    • Oct
    • Nov
    • Dec
Emma Leith
NEW

Brighten up your home and learn how to crochet these colourful Crochet Lanterns and Lobster Pots with Emma Leith on this weekend retreat.

  • 2 nights full-board accommodation, from dinner on Friday to lunch on Sunday
  • 2 days tuition with Emma Leith, kit included
  • Tea and coffee during workshops
  • Complementary WIFI

Availability:

  • 2024
    • Jan
    • Feb
    • Mar
    • Apr
    • May
    • Jun
    • Jul
    • Aug
    • Sep
    • Oct
    • Nov
    • Dec
Karin Hellaby
NEW

Remarkable scenery, fascinating wildlife and wonders of nature await on this exploration of Iceland and the Faroes Islands with Karin Hellaby.

  • 12 nights accommodation on Bolette
  • Breakfast, lunch and dinner each day, plus afternoon tea with sandwiches and cakes, and late-night snacks
  • 3 full-day hand-stitching workshops with Karin, kit included
  • Excursions and visits as described in the itinerary
  • Services of an experienced Tour Manager
  • All on-board gratuities

Availability:

  • 2024
    • Jan
    • Feb
    • Mar
    • Apr
    • May
    • Jun
    • Jul
    • Aug
    • Sep
    • Oct
    • Nov
    • Dec
Mandy Shaw
NEW

Join Mandy Shaw on an exploration of the Indian state of Gujarat, known for its rich cultural history and textile heritage.

  • Return flights from London Heathrow to Ahmedabad, checked luggage included
  • 10 nights half-board accommodation
  • 2 nights full-board accommodation
  • 9 local lunches
  • Hand-stitching workshops with Mandy Shaw, kit included
  • Local textile workshops
  • Entrance fees and excursions
  • Services of an experienced Tour Manager

Availability:

  • 2024
    • Jan
    • Feb
    • Mar
    • Apr
    • May
    • Jun
    • Jul
    • Aug
    • Sep
    • Oct
    • Nov
    • Dec
Julie Dubreux

Accompanied by expert Julie Debreux, enjoy excursions to Lyngheisenteret Heathland Centre, Hillesvåg Wool Spinning Mill and Museum, and Osteroy.

  • 7 nights half-board accommodation
  • 2 full and 2 half-day knitting workshops with Julie Debreux, kit included
  • Services of an experienced Tour Manager
  • Travel package includes return flights from London to Bergen, with 1 piece of checked luggage
  • Excursions and entrance fees

Availability:

  • 2024
    • Jan
    • Feb
    • Mar
    • Apr
    • May
    • Jun
    • Jul
    • Aug
    • Sep
    • Oct
    • Nov
    • Dec
Karin Hellaby

From the capital of Lima to colonial Arequipa and Peru’s most famous attraction, Machu Picchu, this holiday takes you on a journey of discovery.

  • 13 nights bed and breakfast accommodation
  • 3 half-day hand sewing workshops with our expert
  • Internal flights from Lima to Arequipa and Cusco to Lima
  • Titicaca train from Puno to Cusco
  • 2 lunches and 2 dinners
  • Travel package includes international flights from London to Lima (1 stop) with 1 piece of check-in luggage

Availability:

  • 2024
    • Jan
    • Feb
    • Mar
    • Apr
    • May
    • Jun
    • Jul
    • Aug
    • Sep
    • Oct
    • Nov
    • Dec
Karin Hellaby & more

In the captivating country of Jordan, enjoy hand-stitching workshops and explore the Jordan River and the famous archaeological site of Petra.

  • 9 nights half-board accommodation including 1 night in a deluxe tent at the Rum Magic Luxury Camp in Wadi Rum
  • 4 lunches
  • Workshops with your expert, kit and tea/coffee included
  • Local workshop at Tiraz Centre
  • Services of an experienced Tour Manager
  • Gratuities for driver and local guide
  • Coach travel as detailed in the itinerary
  • Travel package includes return flights from London to Amman with 1 piece of checked luggage
  • Entrance fees and excursions

Availability:

  • 2024
    • Jan
    • Feb
    • Mar
    • Apr
    • May
    • Jun
    • Jul
    • Aug
    • Sep
    • Oct
    • Nov
    • Dec
Carolyn Forster

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Khiva, Bhukara and Samarkand as we pass along the route of the Silk Road.

  • Return economy class flight from London Heathrow to Tashkent, with 1 piece of checked baggage
  • 13 nights half-board accommodation, breakfast and dinner included
  • Business class train travel Tashkent to Kokand, Bukhara to Samarkand and Samarkand to Tashkent
  • Economy class flights Tashkent to Urgench and Urgench to Bukhara
  • Sightseeing, entrance fees and expert-led workshops as described
  • Local English-speaking guide to accompany the tour throughout
  • Services of an experienced Tour Manager

Availability:

  • 2024
    • Jan
    • Feb
    • Mar
    • Apr
    • May
    • Jun
    • Jul
    • Aug
    • Sep
    • Oct
    • Nov
    • Dec
Pat Archibald

Join us for a Northern Lights cruise and experience the magical mix of colours that form in the Arctic sky.

  • Flights London to Bergen and Kirkenes to London (via Oslo)
  • 6 nights’ accommodation on MS Polarlys
  • 1 night accommodation on a half-board basis in both Bergen & Kirkenes
  • A full programme of workshops with Pat – kit included
  • Services of a Tour Manager throughout the tour
  • Half-day sightseeing tours of Bergen & Kirkenes

Availability:

  • 2024
    • Jan
    • Feb
    • Mar
    • Apr
    • May
    • Jun
    • Jul
    • Aug
    • Sep
    • Oct
    • Nov
    • Dec
Emma Leith

Take some time out from the hustle and bustle of daily life and join Emma on this relaxing weekend retreat dedicated to beginner’s crochet.

  • 2 nights full-board accommodation, from dinner on Friday to lunch on Sunday
  • 2 days tuition with Emma Leith
  • Complementary WIFI
  • Tea and coffee during workshops
  • Kit with a ball of chunky yarn and hooks included for the first part of the course
  • Use of the hotel leisure facilities (subject to availability); gym, heated indoor swimming pool, Jacuzzi, sauna and steam room

Availability:

  • 2024
    • Jan
    • Feb
    • Mar
    • Apr
    • May
    • Jun
    • Jul
    • Aug
    • Sep
    • Oct
    • Nov
    • Dec

Planning your trip

With so much on offer, you might need some inspiration! We’ve hand-picked a selection of favourite destinations and provided an overview of the very best highlights...

Patchwork & Quilting Holidays

Patchwork & Quilting Holidays Highlights

If you’re passionate about Patchwork & Quilting, love to travel and would like to share new experiences with like-minded crafters, then why not join us on a Stitchtopia patchwork and quilting holiday? Whether you’re an experienced quilter or enthusiastic amateur, it’s the perfect way to combine your favourite pastime with sightseeing, visits to textile museums, a chance to meet local quilters and to find that perfect fabric for your stash from carefully chosen quilting stores.

Whether it’s the sunny climes of Portugal, the stunning French Alps, or the ancient walled city of Carcassonne, our European quilting retreats offer the perfect way to hone your machine stitching skills. Venture further and you can explore the rich textile traditions of countries like Myanmar, Uzbekistan and Vietnam. Why not take a quilting cruise? A most relaxing way to travel and plenty of time to create a hand-stitched memento of your holiday. Whilst the quilt shows in Calgary, Prague and the Alsace are all very different, the marvellous traditional and contemporary quilts on display are a great inspiration for your Stitchtopia workshops.  

Crochet Holidays

Crochet Holidays Highlights

If you love crochet and have a passion for yarn, why not join us on one of our wonderful Stitchtopia crochet holidays? Each holiday is the perfect combination of inspiring destinations, relaxation and creation, and, whether you’re travelling alone or with a friend, you’ll be amongst people who share your interest. 

You’ll be accompanied by one of our Stitchtopia experts, who’ll host friendly, informative workshops. Whatever your level of skill, they’ll be on hand to guide you, and offer some insider tips and tricks on how to use your Stitchtopia crochet kits. Each project has been specially designed to complement the beautiful and fascinating destinations you are visiting, whether it’s the landscape, the heritage or learning traditional techniques. 

Choose from a crochet cruise, a crochet retreat, or simply a crochet holiday, our Stitchtopia collection is the perfect way to relax, discover new destinations, and of course – crochet!

Embroidery and Cross Stitch Holidays

Embroidery and Cross Stitch Holidays Highlights

Whether you’re new to cross stitch and embroidery, a seasoned stitcher or a cross stitch connoisseur, you’ll love Stitchtopia’s embroidery holidays and cross stitch holidays. These ancient crafts are practised all over the world and our ever-growing collection of Stitchtopia holidays, which includes everything from embroidery retreats to cross stitch cruises, means you can do the same.

Embroidery and cross stitch are as portable as they are relaxing and we’ve carefully selected the destinations for these holidays with this in mind. Where better to enjoy a retreat than in the warmer climes of some of Europe’s most beautiful islands, or a charming hotel nestled in the UK’s tranquil countryside. Perhaps you’d like to stitch as you sail on a leisurely cruise?  

Each holiday has a full programme of embroidery or cross stitch workshops led by well-known tutors and designers. Under their guidance and using a Stitchtopia kit that’s provided, you can master new stitches, glean tips on techniques and hone existing skills to create your own beautiful work of art. Whichever Stitchtopia holiday you choose it’s the perfect way to meet new friends, relax and enjoy your favourite past time, and take inspiration from the traditional techniques and handicrafts of different countries.

Knitting Holidays

Knitting Holidays Highlights


Ideal for anyone who loves knitting, travel and crafting new experiences, Stitchtopia knitting holidays have been created to take knitters where they want to go – anywhere in the World! Our collection of Stitchtopia knitting holidays includes Shetland, Faroes and Iceland, which are top in every knitters’ wish list, but also explores the knitting heritage of the Baltic States and Scandinavia.

Every knitting cruise, knitting retreat and knitting tour includes a Stitchtopia knitting kit, opportunities to meet local knitters and designers, visits to yarn stores, and ‘woolly themed’ excursions. Our experienced tutors will host workshops and under their guidance you can learn the traditional techniques of some of the great knitting nations.

Experienced knitters, novice knitters and knitters travelling alone are all warmly welcomed. So, if you want to improve your knitting skills, make new friends, or simply broaden your travel horizons then look no further than a Stitchtopia knitting holiday.


Textile Holidays

Textile Holidays Highlights

Anyone who loves textile and costume will love Stitchtopia’s textile tours! Our tours explore some of the world’s most fascinating countries discovering the cultures and people, both past and present, whose creative and technical skills produce the beautiful woven, painted, printed and embroidered fabrics that are used for ceremonial events, and are part of a colourful everyday life.

Every country has its iconic, ‘must-see’ sights and these are complimented by the perfect blend of textile visits including prominent museums and private collections. See how emerging businesses produce traditional designs using modern technology, and watch masters of their trade create contemporary pieces using centuries-old techniques. Workshops with skilled local craftsmen and women are a chance to try your hand at different techniques of dyeing, weaving or stitching, and there is always that all important opportunity to shop for fabric, beads and embellishments, traditional handicrafts and perhaps a bespoke souvenir. You’ll be joined on your textile journey by one of our friendly Stitchtopia experts and you can travel in the knowledge you’ll be sharing truly special experiences with a small group of like-minded, kindred spirits.

Want to venture further and broaden your textile horizons by getting off-the beaten-track? Then take a look at our wonderful collection of Stitchtopia textile holidays, which has been crafted to help you do just that.

Sarah Ashford

Sarah Ashford Highlights

Sarah is the founder of the #GreatBritishQuilter Instagram Challenge and her debut fabric collection GBQ Back to Basics for Dashwood Studio will be available in January 2020. An accompanying Aurifil thread box, containing twenty 12 weight threads is available now. Sarah also hosts the Great British Quilter Podcast, interviewing fellow quilters, authors, shop owners and industry professionals to gain a behind the scenes look at the quilting industry. Sarah has taught quilting both internationally and nationally; from New York to Edinburgh, Somerset to Jersey, and she can't wait to share her love of quilting at more destinations around the world.


Follow Sarah on Instagram at @sarahashfordstudio and @thequiltersplanner and visit her website www.sarahashfordstudio.com to keep up with her quilting journey.