Many of our knitting guests at the Watermill have asked is whether it would be possible to run a knitting retreat here, in which there would be no tutor, but rather individual knitters would bring their own projects and enjoy convivial like-minded company in the peaceful ambience of the Watermill, as well as our usual offering of wonderful food and outings into the surrounding unspoiled Tuscan countryside of Lunigiana.

So, by popular demand, we are doing just that. A number of people have already put their names down, so if you're keen, please let us know as soon as you can. Since there is no official tutor, we are offering a special blanket discount of £200 per person.

Our knitting holidays fill very quickly so, if you are interested in joining us, please do let us know as soon as possible.

We are delighted to introduce Louisa Harding, the celebrated cashmere knitter and yarn producer, to the Watermill knitting team. Louisa has recently established a new brand, called Yarntelier, combining the finest yarns from the English county of Yorkshire with beautiful designs, to make each item a piece of hand-crafted couture.

She is now planning the projects she will bring. In the first half of the week you will be creating a stitch sampler. At the same time, you will pull together images and notes on the surrounding area, using them as inspiration for the second half of your week when you will put together your own shawl, scarf, wrap or cowl under Louisa's expert guidance. Louisa will bring with her a mix of yarns - in colour and texture (cashmere, mohair, silk, chenille and alpaca) - for you to use.

As ever your knitting week at the Watermill will combine expert tuition, like-minded company, wonderful food and the delightful ambience of the Watermill, it's gardens and riverside walks, and outings into the surrounding unspoiled Tuscan countryside of Lunigiana.