The Websters Spring Retreat 2025
We had such a fantastic time at our first retreat that we decided to do another one! Once again we have teamed up with the extraordinary crew of the Winchester Inn, and enlisted Fair Isle and colorwork expert Gudrun Johnston, to bring you a one-of-a-kind luxury getaway in Southern Oregon. This year we can accommodate 22 Retreat Guests. Last year we sold out within a few hours, so don’t wait to book your ticket! See full details below.
Testimonals
“Such a well organized retreat with so many thoughtful touches.”
“What a lovely experience... You thought of everything and things appeared to run so smoothly!!!! And such a nice group of people!”
“This was a spectacular jaunt.”
“Thank you so much for a wonderful well planned retreat, I would not have changed a thing.”
“I haven’t had so much fun in a long time! Everything perfectly planned out.”
Where You'll Stay
Our retreat begins at the luxurious Winchester Inn, located in the heart of Ashland. A mere 2 blocks from the Oregon Shakespeare Festival, the Winchester Inn has a long history of providing a boutique hotel experience for playgoers, and they are excited to welcome back our group of knitters! Each retreat guest will have their own unique room and private bathroom, which are all appointed with fresh flowers, plush terry cloth robes, Antica Farmacista toiletries, and afternoon pastry treats. We will enjoy gourmet breakfast on site each day, and use their charming parlor for social knitting in the evenings.
Testimonals
“The Winchester Team is amazing at every level.”
“I felt totally pampered!”
“I don’t believe I’ve ever stayed at such accommodating lodging. The afternoon treats and special touches were quite unique and made for an extraordinary stay. I also think the location in relation to The Websters and Main Street shopping was great!
*Please contact us if you have accessibility requirements for your stay and we will be sure to accommodate you.
Classes
This year we are thrilled to be hosting Shetland born knitwear designer Gudrun Johnston! Gudrun will share lots of fascinating information about this remote group of islands including the knitting heritage, the production of Jamieson’s wool, Shetland Sheep and her own personal connection with it all, as well as two Shetland themed classes!
Fair Isle Taster:
In this class we will dip our toes into the world of Fair Isle knitting! We will look at choosing colors, color dominance, stranding the yarn, speed swatching in the round and we will even do some steeking (cutting into our knitting)! We will be working with a tried-and-true product, 100%Shetland yarn, traditionally used for Fair Isle knitting. Appropriate for a beginner or a seasoned colorwork knitter
Shetland Hap:
Learn how to knit a traditional Hap (shawl) from the Shetland Islands. This beautiful heirloom shawl makes a great gift for a new baby and is a great introduction to Shetland Lace knitting. We will make a mini version of this shawl in class (as a half hap) and students will leave with the necessary skills to make their own full-sized version at home.
Testimonals
“The Winchester Team is amazing at every level.”
“I felt totally pampered!”
“I don’t believe I’ve ever stayed at such accommodating lodging. The afternoon treats and special touches were quite unique and made for an extraordinary stay. I also think the location in relation to The Websters and Main Street shopping was great!
Culture
“A comedy of (hardly any) manners.”
“A comedy of (hardly any) manners.” The Oregon Shakespeare Festival is a very special part of any visit to Ashland, and this time our theater outing is to the Oscar Wilde classic, The Importance of Being Earnest. This “trivial comedy for serious people” is a beloved classic that is sure to humor and delight. We are thrilled to have reserved seats in the historic Angus Bowmer Theatre, and we know this will be a memorable part of the retreat.
Testimonals
"It was perfect. I wasn’t sure I would have stamina for the evening, and I am so glad I decided to go.”
“Being able to attend the theater was frosting on the cake! What a treat!”
“Ahh, the play was perfect and that it was close enough to walk to was a big plus.”
Cuisine
Ashland is home to many incredible culinary establishments, two of which are right on site of our retreat! Our retreat includes all meals during your stay, and we will be dining at several unforgettable restaurants, including Alchemy Restaurant and Bar, and Chateaubriand 36.
“Embark on a culinary journey through the vibrant flavors of Ashland, where each dish is a celebration of local ingredients, expert craftsmanship, and an unwavering commitment to delivering an unparalleled dining experience.” - Chateaubriand 36 website
Testimonals
"It was perfect. I wasn’t sure I would have stamina for the evening, and I am so glad I decided to go.”
“Being able to attend the theater was frosting on the cake! What a treat!”
“Ahh, the play was perfect and that it was close enough to walk to was a big plus.”
*Please contact us if you have dietary requirements for your stay and we will be sure to accommodate you.
Queen’s Tea Service
In the spirit of our Fair Isle knitting classes using Shetland Wool, and our very English play, this year we are so excited to spend an afternoon having a Queen’s Tea service at our local tearoom. Lovejoy’s Tea Room is a charming space to enjoy your fill of dainty sandwiches, scones with clotted cream and jam, and of course a bottomless pot of tea to go with our knitting!
Shopping
And of course, our retreat will include ample time at our beloved Local Yarn Shop! We will be hosting a private shopping event on Monday night, and have opportunities throughout the week for you to visit and explore our huge selection of yarn, spinning and weaving equipment, Art to Wear clothing and jewelry, and so much more. We can’t wait to meet you and share our knowledge and enthusiasm for all things fiber!
Testimonals
“What a delightful group of young women working in your shop. They were so helpful and sweet with each and every customer.”
“The Websters Team is highly competent, service oriented, and the very best combination of talents I can imagine.”
“I have always (over many years ) had amazing help from staff at Websters, but this past week was truly above and beyond.”
Optional Additional Day
The feedback we received about our last retreat was a desire for more social time. In an effort to slow things down, this year we are offering an optional additional day. Thursday won’t include any knitting instruction, but comes with your choice of spa service, and an outing to a local winery (which was a crowd favorite last time!).
Southern Oregon is home to many award winning wineries and vineyards, and we will enjoy an afternoon of tasting at a local favorite! Transportation and tastings are all included. Bring a knitting project and enjoy the lovely vistas and incomparable wine Weisinger Family Winery.
Full Package Tickets
Since there are a limited number of spaces available and last year we sold out within a few hours, we encourage you to purchase your Full Package retreat ticket today!
April 21-24
22 single rooms available
$2490 total fee
$500 deposit
Full Retreat Ticket
Full Plus Package Tickets
This year we are offering an optional 4th night! Thursday will not include any official knitting content, but will allow for some local activities and more relaxation time. Space is limited, so purchase your ticket today!
April 21-25
22 single rooms available
$3290 total fee
$650 deposit
Full PLUS Retreat Ticket
In partnership with the City of Ashland and The Winchester Inn.
