Regency Picnic

Join us for a glorious afternoon of picnicking, beverages, and a range of rare Regency Crafts. Those who would like to promenade in their Regency dress are welcome to.

To mark the conclusion of our collaborative project with Jane Austen’s House and the 250^th year since the birth of Jane Austen, this event will celebrate the cultural activity of Regency England. As you pose for your personalised silhouette, learn about Jane Austen’s House, and the behind-the-scenes of our critically endangered Silk Ribbon Weaving. This prized picnic will also showcase our ‘Bridgerton’ inspired ribbons, where you can get an exclusive look.

Joining us will be our very own silk ribbon weavers, Silhouette Sarah, Jane Austen’s House and Laughing with Lizzie.

Enjoy a day filled with Regency activities and a scrumptious picnic afternoon tea. Ticket includes:

• A drink on arrival
• Picnic in the grounds
• Admission to the Mill
• Ribbons to Riches exhibition.
• Silhouette portrait per guest by Silhouette Sarah
• The first chance to view and purchase our ‘Bridgerton’ inspired silk ribbons.
• Table top exhibition and talks from Jane Austen’s House at 4 & 6pm
• Sophie Andrews of Laughing with Lizzie, Author and Jane Austen specialist
• Make and take embroidery workshop with Abigail Rose Creative
• A chance to learn about some of the endangered crafts still practiced today that were popular in Regency England.
• Weaving activity drop in
• Lacemaking demonstrations and have a go pillow
• Critically endangered craft, corn dolly making
• Flower crown demonstrations
• Chance to witness silk ribbon weaving
• Photographs on Frog Island
• A chance to shop with Farthingale Historical Hats

Silhouettists are extremely rare with only a few now practicing world wide. Silhouette Sarah has over 20 years experience in this rare-art form so be prepared to be wowed as you watch her in action.

Likewise, Silk Ribbon Weaving was listed as a critically endangered craft in 2023 and added to the Red List with Heritage Craft Association. At the time, there were just four silk ribbon weavers remaining in the UK, with the Mill employing one of them.

During 2024, Whitchurch Silk Mill wove a beautiful collection of Special Edition silk ribbons in a creative collaboration project with Jane Austen’s House, breathing new life into this craft.

This is an outdoor event but a capri tent will be on the front lawn in case of wet weather. Prebooking is essential, no tickets will be available on the door. 

This event is part of a program of events to celebrate 250 years since the birth of Jane Austen.