Cockington: Sunset Sketch and Stroll with Sketch Kit

If you’re looking for a unique way to unwind while tapping into your creative side, the Cockington Sunset Sketch and Stroll offers a lovely blend of outdoor beauty and artistic guidance. Led by the talented James Murch, this tour packs in scenic views, expert tips, and a welcoming atmosphere, all for just $54 per person.

What we really love about this experience is how accessible it is—beginners and seasoned artists alike can enjoy the process. Plus, the focus on light and shade makes it a practical class that can elevate your sketching skills. That said, it’s worth mentioning that the activity is not suitable for wheelchair users or children under 18, so it’s best for those ready to walk a bit and enjoy the outdoors. This stroll suits travelers craving a peaceful, creative activity with plenty of picturesque scenery to inspire.

Key Points

• Expert Guidance: Led by artist James Murch, who offers personalized tips suitable for all skill levels.
• Beautiful Settings: Features the gardens, lakes, woodland, and sea views of Cockington Court.
• All-Inclusive Kit: You get a starter sketch kit, including a notepad, pencil, viewfinder, and eraser, which you keep afterwards.
• Skill Development: Focuses on simplifying views and understanding light and shade—great for improving your technique.
• Relaxed Pace: The stroll and sketching sessions are designed to be unhurried, encouraging creativity without pressure.
• Authentic Experience: End the tour with a drink at The Drum pub, adding a cozy, local flavor to the outing.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Overview of What to Expect

When you sign up for the Cockington Sunset Sketch and Stroll, you’re in for a laid-back, enriching afternoon that seamlessly combines nature, art, and local charm. The meeting point is simple: look for James under the archway leading into Cockington village, easily identifiable by his yellow fluorescent jacket. From there, the journey begins.

Your sketch kit is waiting—comprising a notepad, pencil, viewfinder, and eraser. These tools are yours to keep at the end, making it a practical souvenir and a starter kit for future sketches. James will guide you through the basics, including how to use your viewfinder, and teach techniques to simplify complex scenes and emphasize light and shades—fundamental skills for any aspiring artist.

The route takes you through various scenic spots within Cockington’s grounds. Expect to pause at picturesque viewpoints overlooking lakes, apple orchards, ancient trees, and even the sea. Each spot offers unique opportunities to practice capturing natural shapes, tones, and shadows, whether you’re a total novice or have some drawing experience.

The Guided Sketching

James’s approach is relaxed but knowledgeable, offering tailored advice to fit your skill level. His tips on working plein air—drawing outdoors directly from nature—encourage you to focus on the essence of the scene rather than getting bogged down in details. Reviewers mention how James’s guidance helped them explore new techniques, with one noting, “He guided us to explore shapes and tones in a relaxed and inspiring way,” even when lighting conditions weren’t perfect.

The Gardens and Landscapes

The beauty of Cockington is its diverse landscape—from lush gardens to tranquil lakes and charming woodland. These settings provide endless inspiration and are ideal for practicing different sketching styles. You might find yourself capturing the delicate light filtering through trees or the soft reflections on the water. The area’s charm is amplified by the fact that you are working outdoors, feeling the atmosphere and light shift as the sun begins to set.

The End of the Tour

After a few hours of sketching and strolling, the tour concludes back at the meeting point. To cap off your creative outing, you can head to The Drum, a traditional English pub in Cockington Village, for a well-earned drink and a chance to chat about your sketches. The reviews highlight how special this part is—adding a very local, authentic touch to your experience.

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Is It Worth the Price?

At $54, this experience offers excellent value, especially considering it includes a starter sketch kit and personalized instruction from a seasoned artist. The group size tends to be small, ensuring you get plenty of individual attention. You’re not just paying for the sketches—you’re paying for a relaxing, inspiring evening in a beautiful setting with expert guidance.

The fact that you keep the sketch kit makes this activity not just a one-time event but a potential start of a new hobby. Plus, the chance to learn new techniques that will improve your future sketches makes the cost seem quite reasonable.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for beginners to intermediate sketchers who want a relaxed, scenic outing. It’s also ideal for travelers who appreciate outdoor activities and local culture—the combination of nature, art, and a cozy pub makes for a memorable evening. If you’re someone who enjoys a bit of creative reflection after a walk, or simply loves stunning views, you’ll find this tour a delightful way to spend an evening.

Note that it’s less suitable for those with mobility issues or young children, as it involves walking and standing in outdoor environments. Also, if you’re expecting an intensely structured class, this tour’s informal, laid-back style might surprise you—in a good way, if you prefer gentle guidance over rigid instruction.

A Bit More Detail: The Itinerary & Experience Breakdown

Starting Point & Meeting: Look for James under the archway in Cockington; he’s easy to spot with his yellow jacket. This straightforward start sets a friendly tone, emphasizing accessibility and personal attention.

Receiving Your Kit & Learning: Once you’ve met James, he’ll show you how to use your sketch kit. Expect friendly, expert advice on how to use a viewfinder to focus on key shapes and simplify complicated scenes—a skill that can dramatically improve your sketches.

Exploring Scenic Spots: The route is carefully chosen to showcase Cockington’s diverse landscapes. Highlights include tranquil lakes, the apple orchard, ancient trees, and views of the sea. Each stop offers a different mood and subject matter, giving you plenty of material to work with. James encourages working plein air, so you’ll be working directly from nature, which can be both challenging and rewarding.

Techniques & Practice: James’s tips focus on light and shade, helping you to create sketches that feel lively and dynamic. Reviewers mentioned that even when the lighting wasn’t perfect, James’s guidance made it easier to focus on shapes and tones, making the process less intimidating.

Wrap-up & Social Time: After about two hours, you return to the meeting point. The experience ends with a visit to The Drum pub, where you can chat about your sketches, enjoy a drink, and soak up the cozy local atmosphere.

Practical Tips for Participants

• Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be walking around outdoor terrain.
• Dress weather-appropriate; the UK weather can be unpredictable, so bring layers.
• The sketch kit is yours to keep, so take care of it—it’s your new art starter pack!
• Beginners are very welcome, and the guide offers tailored advice for all levels.
• The tour is scheduled around sunset, so you’ll experience beautiful natural lighting, perfect for sketching.
• Remember, the activity isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or kids under 18.

Final Thoughts

The Cockington Sunset Sketch and Stroll offers a peaceful, inspiring evening in one of Devon’s most picturesque villages. Combining expert guidance, stunning scenery, and a relaxed pace, it’s a wonderful choice for anyone eager to disconnect from daily stresses and enjoy a creative moment outdoors.

Whether you’re an artist looking for new techniques, a traveler wanting a memorable local experience, or simply someone who appreciates beautiful landscapes, this tour delivers genuine value. The fact that you get to keep your sketch kit makes it even more worthwhile—a tangible reminder of a tranquil evening in Devon’s charming countryside.

If you’re craving a gentle, scenic activity that nourishes both your eyes and your creative spirit, this experience could be just what you need.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the tour is designed to be accessible for all skill levels, including complete beginners. The guide provides tailored tips to help you improve your technique.

What is included in the price?
The price covers a starter sketch kit (notepad, pencil, viewfinder, eraser), expert guidance from James Murch, and visits to various scenic points.

Do I get to keep the sketch kit?
Yes, you keep the sketch kit at the end of the tour, making it a practical souvenir and useful for future drawing.

Is there any physical activity involved?
Yes, expect some walking and standing outdoors. The experience is not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended since the activity takes place outdoors.

Can I join if I have some drawing experience?
Absolutely. The guidance is tailored to your skill level, whether you’re a complete novice or have some experience.

How long does the activity last?
The tour typically lasts around two hours, including stops and sketching sessions.

Are there any age restrictions?
Yes, it’s not suitable for children under 18 or people over 95, due to walking and outdoor activity requirements.

What if it rains?
Weather can be unpredictable, so bring layers and waterproof clothing. The guide may adapt the route if necessary.

How do I find the meeting point?
Look for James standing under the archway to Cockington village, wearing a yellow fluorescent jacket. The exact location is described using What3Words: carbonate.detection.ponies.

To sum it up, the Cockington Sunset Sketch and Stroll provides an authentic, relaxed introduction to outdoor sketching amid stunning scenery. It’s perfect for those wanting a creative escape, combined with the charm of Devon’s countryside. The combination of expert guidance, scenic beauty, and the chance to learn new skills makes it a worthwhile addition to your travel plans—especially if you enjoy a bit of outdoor art and local flavor.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby