About
Internationally renowned couture shoemaker and craftswoman Caroline Groves gives you a personal tour of her studio while you experience the sounds and sights of a working atelier. We can tailor your experience to suit your specific interests.
You can choose a talk from the History of Shoes, leatherwork, more technical subjects on the art and craft of bespoke shoemaking, or tap into Caroline’s wealth of knowledge of local craft and history – she comes from a long line of craftsmen directly descended from C.R. Ashbee’s Arts and Crafts movement.
We include a lunch at the atelier, or a picnic in the beautiful grounds, weather permitting. The cost of the visit varies based on your needs. The visit should take about 4 hours. This includes a guided tour of the workshops and studio, with the opportunity to ask questions and discuss aspects of the craft personally with Caroline. The talk can be either a formal presentation on the chosen topic, or an informal discussion over lunch. You will come away with an understanding and appreciation of the complexities of leatherwork and shoemaking, as well as an insight into the bespoke process and the various traditional techniques and decorative arts employed by Caroline in her creations.
If a guest wishes to place an order for bespoke shoes, additional time will be required for a personal consultation and measurements.
We also arrange wardrobe days, where individual clients undergo a longer consultation to design a range of footwear to suit their lifestyle and wardrobe.
Caroline is also able to travel to the client’s home for private consultations and fittings.
Booking
Price: A typical visit consisting of a guided tour, talk and lunch is £2500 including VAT for up to 4 people.
Price of wardrobe days and private visits are dependent on requirements.
Duration: 4 Hours. Shorter experiences are available, please contact for further details.
Opening: Available all year round by appointment.
Booking: To book please email the trade contact below.
Facilities
Language: English only. Guests will need an intermediate level of English to fully appreciate the experience.
Parking: There is free parking on the site.
Pick-up Service: This can be arranged for an extra charge.
Accessibility: The main studio and workshop is wheelchair accessible. A small part of the tour is only accessible via a flight of stairs. Hearing or visually-impaired visitors may not benefit from the full experience.
Trade Contact
email: enquiries@carolinegroves.co.uk
telephone: 01386 854230