Special Events
See what’s on when you’d like to visit or scroll through events below for inspiration!
Flo Unplugged - FREE Acoustic Session
Join us for a get-together celebrating live music, poetry, recitations, and song.
Flo Unplugged is a relaxed, welcoming space to share creativity and enjoy great performances together.
Entry is free, with donations warmly welcomed. No booking required - just turn up and enjoy the evening.
If you’d like to perform, please get in touch in advance so we can plan the running order. The setup will be simple and unplugged, with two microphones only.
florence@florenceartscentre.com or phone 01946 824946
Have a Go at Pottery Throwing
Ever wanted to try the potter’s wheel? This relaxed one-hour introduction is the perfect chance to get hands-on and have a go at pottery throwing using our brand new wheels. Guided by an experienced tutor Cath Ball, you’ll learn the basics of centring clay and shaping simple forms, with plenty of time to experiment and enjoy the process.
No previous experience is needed – just curiosity and a willingness to get a little messy! Whether you’re ticking it off your bucket list or simply trying something new, this session offers a fun and creative introduction to working on the wheel. Book here!
Please note an optional £10.00pp is payable on the day to fire items.
Have a Go at Pottery Throwing
Ever wanted to try the potter’s wheel? This relaxed one-hour introduction is the perfect chance to get hands-on and have a go at pottery throwing using our brand new wheels. Guided by an experienced tutor, Cath Ball you’ll learn the basics of centring clay and shaping simple forms, with plenty of time to experiment and enjoy the process.
No previous experience is needed – just curiosity and a willingness to get a little messy! Whether you’re ticking it off your bucket list or simply trying something new, this session offers a fun and creative introduction to working on the wheel. Book here!
Please note an optional £10.00pp is payable on the day to fire items.
Porcelain Texture Workshop with Cath Ball: Lace, Imprint & Form
This practical, hands-on workshop is ideal for beginners and improvers who would like to explore the unique qualities of porcelain through hand-building techniques. Guided by ceramic artist Cath Ball, participants will learn how to work confidently with porcelain clay, focusing on creating delicate forms and beautifully textured surfaces while embracing the material’s translucency and ability to capture fine detail.
Using simple hand-building methods, you will experiment with imprinting texture into porcelain using lace and a selection of found objects. Throughout the session, Cath will offer guidance on handling porcelain, avoiding common pitfalls, and achieving clean, refined results.
The final outcome will be a cylindrical form, which can be finished as a mug, vase, or plant pot. Participants can choose their preferred form and colour, ensuring each piece becomes a unique and personal object to enjoy for years to come.
All completed work will be professionally fired in Cath’s studio and will be ready for collection approximately 5–6 weeks after the workshop. Book here!
Please note £20.00pp is payable on the day in cash to the artist, for materials and firing your finished item.
Basics of Throwing - 4 Week Course
This course is fully booked but more dates will be coming very soon!
Discover the magic of the potter’s wheel in our 4-week beginners throwing course. This intimate course is the perfect introduction to wheel throwing, held on our brand new pottery wheels in a relaxed and welcoming studio setting.
Across four weekly 2-hour sessions, you’ll learn the essential techniques of throwing, including centring clay, shaping forms, and developing confidence on the wheel. Guided by experienced and inspiring potter Cath Ball, you’ll receive hands-on tuition and plenty of individual support as your skills grow week by week.
Ideal for complete beginners, this course offers a creative, mindful escape and a chance to learn a timeless craft at a comfortable pace.
Course Dates:
18/04/2026
25/04/2026
02/05/2026
09/05/2026
An optional £10.00pp is payable for firing of items at the end of the course.
Clay Club - 4 Week Course
Clay Club is a fun and creative four-week course designed for young people aged 8–18 who would like to explore pottery and ceramics. Across the sessions, participants will be introduced to the basics of working with clay, including a chance to have a go at throwing on the potter’s wheel.
Guided by an experienced tutor, young makers will learn fundamental pottery skills in a relaxed and supportive environment, building confidence as they experiment with different techniques and ideas. The course encourages creativity, curiosity, and hands-on learning, with plenty of opportunity to get messy and have fun.
No previous experience is needed, and all materials are provided. Book here!
Course dates:
18.04.2026
25.04.2026
02.05.2026
09.05.2026
Please note optional firing costs £10pp and is payable at the end of the course.
We believe creativity should be for everyone, so if cost is a barrier we’re happy to offer a friendly discount for those eligible for free school meals - just get in touch via florence@florenceartscentre.com.
Life at Flo - Drawing the Human Figure - £12
Come along to meet members of Flo's friendly local artist network and practice drawing from our life model. We'll welcome you with hot drinks and biscuits to help the inspiration flow!
The session will not be tutored so you will need to work independently and bring your own materials (including boards/easels if required). Come along from 6:15 to get settled in.
We do not want the fee to be a barrier to taking part. Please get in touch if you'd like to discuss before booking.
Creative Writing ‘TRAILS’ with Annie Wilson - £15
CREATIVE WRITING with Annie Wilson
Book with Annie by emailing at annecumbria@btinternet.com
Monthly Creative Writing in 2026 at Florence with Annie Wilson. Wednesdays 1 - 3 pm on Jan 28, Feb 25, March 25, using as our stimulus the theme of TRAILS. You will create three or four pieces of writing. No experience necessary but all is valued. £15 cash on the day per workshop or special offer when paid in advance. Enquiries to Annie on annecumbria@btinternet.com
Whether you write regularly or you haven’t since leaving school, you are very welcome. All experience will be valued. Sessions are fun and serious.
A great deal of research shows the benefit to our wellbeing of mindful, creative activity, such as writing in a group. You will certainly grow in confidence.
Each workshop stands alone though you may experience greater benefit from attending all 4.
Annie’s original degree was in Drama Education. She has delivered a wide variety of Community Education courses through the WEA (Workers’ Educational Association) around Cumbria and beyond, with a special interest in mental health. Her freelance work has been facilitating Creative Writing in Community and Recovery settings. Her aim is for individuals to develop their writing practice in a secure group setting which gives pleasure and may lead to fulfilling independent writing. Annie lives in Cleator Moor.
Suitable for those aged 19+ years. Our centre is wheelchair accessible with parking on site, ramped access to the studio door and level throughout. We have an Access toilet.
Burns Concert with Committed2Rock Community Choir - £12
Celebrate Burns Day with an uplifting afternoon of music as Committed2Rock Community Choir presents Burns Concert on Sunday 25th January 2026, 1:00–3:00pm.
This tartan-tastic concert is a lively mix of greatest rock anthems and traditional Scottish music, brought together in true Committed2Rock style. Inspired by the spirit of Robert Burns, the programme promises rousing songs, heartfelt moments, and plenty of community atmosphere.
A bar will be available on site to purchase refreshments and the chance to enjoy a traditional dram of whisky as part of the Burns Day celebration.
Join us for a warm, energetic afternoon of music, expect great songs, big voices, and a fantastic atmosphere.
Tickets cost £12.00 and can be booked here or in store at Florence Arts Centre.
We hope to see you there!
Florence Paintmakers - Demonstration of Paintmaking Practice - £6
Come and join us for a demonstration of our paintmaking practice. We use traditional methods to create high quality artist materials.
Join Nikki and Dave in the paintmaking studio at florence arts centre. The Arts centre is on the site of the former iron ore (haematite) mine. Learn more about how we process the iron ore to create our signature egremont red colour in this demonstration. There will be opportunity to have a go yourself and of course ask questions. Friendly and warm atmosphere - a lovely interesting way to spend an afternoon.
We will talk you through the method of processing rocks into earth pigments and the different techniques we use to create our watercolour paints and chalk pastels. There will be time for questions at the end. Please feel free to explore the site before/afterwards - we have a shop, galleries, a cosy cafe and wildlife garden.
Group Bookings Now Available: An Introduction to Pigment and PaintmakingAt Florence Arts Centre, we create paints, pastels, and inks using natural Cumbrian minerals. Would your group like to learn how?We are now welcoming group bookings (6–10 adults) for a one-hour hands-on workshop, led by one of our experienced paintmakers. The session offers an introduction to the traditional craft of pigment making, from raw mineral to finished art material with the opportunity to try your hand at pastel making.The session includes hot drinks, time for questions, and the chance to explore the wider Florence Arts Centre site.£12 per person | 1 hour
To enquire or book, email: paintmakers@florenceartscentre.comWe are happy to discuss tailoring the session to your group requirements.
Winter Stories For Families with Children Ages 3-8 - £5 per family
Take some time to get away from phones and iPads and come together as families for some quality quiet time listening to traditional folk tales on a winter theme. Bring a blanket and snuggle up together for some cosy interactive winter stories!
Interactive stories will engage younger children with actions, sound effects and repetition.
Best suited for families for children ages 3 to 8.
Please contact us if you have any additional access needs. Our centre is wheelchair accessible with parking on site, ramped access to the studio door and level throughout. We have an Access toilet.
Craft Cafe - FREE
No booking required, just show up with something to do! This is a free event for people who want to have a cuppa and a chat while doing something creative. Our regular craft cafe visitors will be able to share their skills if you’d like to learn something new such as knitting or crochet. 11am-1pm
We are also working on a project with Fabricate textile artists and painter Janet Moss to embroider motifs inspired by nature and the Cumbrian Arts & Crafts designer Annie Garnet - pick up a kit and join in!
Winter Stories For Families with Children Ages 3-8 - £5 per family
Take some time to get away from phones and iPads and come together as families for some quality quiet time listening to traditional folk tales on a winter theme. Bring a blanket and snuggle up together for some cosy interactive winter stories!
Interactive stories will engage younger children with actions, sound effects and repetition. Feel free to dress in your Christmas best for this session!
Best suited for families for children ages 3 to 8.
Please contact us if you have any additional access needs. Our centre is wheelchair accessible with parking on site, ramped access to the studio door and level throughout. We have an Access toilet.
Creative Writing ‘CREATURE’ with Annie Wilson - £15
CREATIVE WRITING with Annie Wilson
Book with Annie by emailing at annecumbria@btinternet.com
A change is in the air from the long days of our warm dry summer and evident on the morning grass. With the transitioning season comes a new series of four monthly Creative Writing workshops with Annie Wilson at Florence. You will create three or four pieces of writing at each one. A wide variety of stimuli in a structured but informal atmosphere will be used to inspire your words, on the theme of CREATURE.
Whether you write regularly or you haven’t since leaving school, you are very welcome. All experience will be valued. Sessions are fun and serious.
A great deal of research shows the benefit to our wellbeing of mindful, creative activity, such as writing in a group. You will certainly grow in confidence.
Each workshop stands alone though you may experience greater benefit from attending all 4.
Wednesdays, 1 – 3 pm. Dates: September 24th, October 22nd, November 26th, December 17th.
Annie’s original degree was in Drama Education. She has delivered a wide variety of Community Education courses through the WEA (Workers’ Educational Association) around Cumbria and beyond, with a special interest in mental health. Her freelance work has been facilitating Creative Writing in Community and Recovery settings. Her aim is for individuals to develop their writing practice in a secure group setting which gives pleasure and may lead to fulfilling independent writing. Annie lives in Cleator Moor.
Suitable for those aged 19+ years. Our centre is wheelchair accessible with parking on site, ramped access to the studio door and level throughout. We have an Access toilet.
Donnelly & South’s Christmas Cracker - Arts Out West - £12
Donnelly & South’s Christmas Cracker!
Dec 6th, 1.30pm. Doors open at 1pm.
The most fun you can have without shinning down someone’s chimney! Christmas show with some crazy bits, a sackful of their singalong, wintry-wonderful songs. The best Christmas-Duo-Show this side of Morecambe & Bublé! A stocking-load of Keith’s hilarious seasonal anecdotes and jokes. The gift of a couple of scary solstice ghost stories. Pour on lashings of Lauren’s, silky-smooth, brandy-butter vocals. All wrapped up with fantastic festive guitars and yummy Yuletide fiddles.
Normal Ticket: £12.00
Family Ticket price: Up to 4; maximum 2 adults £25.00
Under 18/Student Ticket price: £6.00
Book Here: Donnelly & South's Christmas Cracker @ Florence Arts Centre, Egremont - Kirkgate Arts and Heritage
POSTPONED: Making Balms - Esther Gigli, Beewell - £16.50
Perfect for gifting yourself—or a friend—this festive season!
Step into a cozy, hands‑on morning with Beewell by Esther and discover how to make your own luxurious, skin‑nourishing balms. Whether you’re looking for a heartfelt, handmade gift or simply wanting to treat yourself, this workshop is the perfect way to slow down, get creative, and bring home something natural and beautiful.
Under Esther’s guidance, you’ll:
Learn about natural ingredients like beeswax, butters, oils, essential oils, and herbal infusions
Understand the properties and benefits of each ingredient
Customise your balm’s scent, texture, and use — from lip balm to multi-purpose skin salve
Blend, melt, pour, and label your creation to take home
Package it beautifully — ready to gift (or keep!)
At the end of the session, you’ll walk away with not just your own handcrafted balm(s) but also the knowledge and confidence to make more at home.
Participants will learn:
The chemistry and physics behind working with beeswax, oils, butters, and essential oils in balm-making.
How to foster a deeper connection with nature for mutual benefit—honouring both personal well-being and the vitality of the plants used.
Please bring:
A small cooking pot suitable for boiling water on a hotplate.
An apron (optional, but useful!)
Your curiosity and creativity — all other materials will be provided.
When her husband Paul began beekeeping in Whitehaven, Esther began to experiment with using the beeswax to make balms and salves. The result became a small business called Beewell. Today, you can buy her products at her stall, in local outlets and online at www.beewellbyesther.co.uk
Suitable for those aged 18+ years. Our centre is wheelchair accessible with parking on site, ramped access to the studio door and level throughout. We have an Access toilet.
Life at Flo - Drawing the Human Figure - £12
Come along to meet members of Flo's friendly local artist network and practice drawing from our life model. We'll welcome you with hot drinks and biscuits to help the inspiration flow!
The session will not be tutored so you will need to work independently and bring your own materials (including boards/easels if required). Come along from 6:15 to get settled in.
We do not want the fee to be a barrier to taking part. Please get in touch if you'd like to discuss before booking.
Ring it in! - FREE
Welcome in the Christmas Season with crafts and carols!
Join us at Florence for a lovely free winter warmer event.
4-6pm Christmas crafts and tree decorating
6-7pm Carols around the tree with Wild Chorus choir
We’ll be dishing up hot chocolate and mulled wine while you peruse our latest exhibition and shop. Feel free to take part and make a beautiful tree decoration and sing some carols around the Christmas tree!
Hope to see you there!
Creative Writing ‘CREATURE’ with Annie Wilson - £15
CREATIVE WRITING with Annie Wilson
Book with Annie by emailing at annecumbria@btinternet.com
A change is in the air from the long days of our warm dry summer and evident on the morning grass. With the transitioning season comes a new series of four monthly Creative Writing workshops with Annie Wilson at Florence. You will create three or four pieces of writing at each one. A wide variety of stimuli in a structured but informal atmosphere will be used to inspire your words, on the theme of CREATURE.
Whether you write regularly or you haven’t since leaving school, you are very welcome. All experience will be valued. Sessions are fun and serious.
A great deal of research shows the benefit to our wellbeing of mindful, creative activity, such as writing in a group. You will certainly grow in confidence.
Each workshop stands alone though you may experience greater benefit from attending all 4.
Wednesdays, 1 – 3 pm. Dates: September 24th, October 22nd, November 26th, December 17th.
Annie’s original degree was in Drama Education. She has delivered a wide variety of Community Education courses through the WEA (Workers’ Educational Association) around Cumbria and beyond, with a special interest in mental health. Her freelance work has been facilitating Creative Writing in Community and Recovery settings. Her aim is for individuals to develop their writing practice in a secure group setting which gives pleasure and may lead to fulfilling independent writing. Annie lives in Cleator Moor.
Suitable for those aged 19+ years. Our centre is wheelchair accessible with parking on site, ramped access to the studio door and level throughout. We have an Access toilet.
Mining Get Together
A chance for ex iron ore mine workers to catch up with friends over a cuppa and help to preserve the important story of local mining. No need to book, just drop in.
Florence Paintmakers - Demonstration of Paintmaking Practice - £6
Come and join us for a demonstration of our paintmaking practice. We use traditional methods to create high quality artist materials.
Join Nikki and Dave in the paintmaking studio at florence arts centre. The Arts centre is on the site of the former iron ore (haematite) mine. Learn more about how we process the iron ore to create our signature egremont red colour in this demonstration. There will be opportunity to have a go yourself and of course ask questions. Friendly and warm atmosphere - a lovely interesting way to spend an afternoon.
We will talk you through the method of processing rocks into earth pigments and the different techniques we use to create our watercolour paints and chalk pastels. There will be time for questions at the end. Please feel free to explore the site before/afterwards - we have a shop, galleries, a cosy cafe and wildlife garden.
Group Bookings Now Available: An Introduction to Pigment and PaintmakingAt Florence Arts Centre, we create paints, pastels, and inks using natural Cumbrian minerals. Would your group like to learn how?We are now welcoming group bookings (6–10 adults) for a one-hour hands-on workshop, led by one of our experienced paintmakers. The session offers an introduction to the traditional craft of pigment making, from raw mineral to finished art material with the opportunity to try your hand at pastel making.The session includes hot drinks, time for questions, and the chance to explore the wider Florence Arts Centre site.£12 per person | 1 hour
To enquire or book, email: paintmakers@florenceartscentre.comWe are happy to discuss tailoring the session to your group requirements.
Winter Stories For Families with Children Ages 3-8 - £5 per family
Take some time to get away from phones and iPads and come together as families for some quality quiet time listening to traditional folk tales on a winter theme. Bring a blanket and snuggle up together for some cosy interactive winter stories!
Interactive stories will engage younger children with actions, sound effects and repetition.
Best suited for families for children ages 3 to 8.
Please contact us if you have any additional access needs. Our centre is wheelchair accessible with parking on site, ramped access to the studio door and level throughout. We have an Access toilet.
Florence Festive Fayre - FREE ENTRY
Join us for a Fantastic Festive Fayre! Cumbrian artists and local entrepreneurs will take over Florence to sell their locally produced goods and wares. Enjoy mulled wine and mince pies whilst you find unique gifts for yourself or another!
Free Entry!
Saturday 8th November 11am - 3pm
Sunday 9th November 11am - 3pm
Life at Flo - Drawing the Human Figure - £12
Come along to meet members of Flo's friendly local artist network and practice drawing from our life model. We'll welcome you with hot drinks and biscuits to help the inspiration flow!
The session will not be tutored so you will need to work independently and bring your own materials (including boards/easels if required). Come along from 6:15 to get settled in.
We do not want the fee to be a barrier to taking part. 3 FREE PLACES thanks to our sponsors! Please get in touch to request one: 01946824946 florence@florenceartscentre.com
Half Term Halloween Films - FREE Drop in
Spooky Fun Alert!
Join us next week for a frightfully fun time with Family Halloween Films!
On October 29th and 30th join us from 1:00pm - 3:00pm each day for crafts and a film!
FREE FOR ALL
Enjoy Halloween-themed movies
Treats for all ages
Mask making activities
Costumes welcome (and encouraged)!
Pumpkin Poll