lead by Richard Hoare
12th – 19th April 2026
A grounding in all aspects of working in the landscape direct from nature. Group instruction interspersed with individual tuition. Open to all levels.
Call 01549 441218 for bookings.
We are delighted to welcome Richard Hoare to The Oykel Bridge Hotel for this week-long Painting Course. It is open to all levels of ability.
Richard knows the landscapes surrounding the hotel intimately — from the mountains and rivers to the sea — and will guide you to a variety of breathtaking locations to paint. You’ll be truly spoiled for choice in this inspiring setting.
You can view Richard’s beautiful work at richardhoare.com or alternatively on Instagram.
Each day will begin around 9:30 a.m. When painting away from the hotel, you will take your packed lunch with you. Upon returning in the afternoon, space will be available at the hotel to continue painting, with Richard on hand, to offer guidance and feedback.
During the week, tuition in oil painting and watercolour techniques will be offered, whether this is deepening an existing skill base or indeed for those eager to try something new. Throughout the week drawing in charcoal and graphite will be an important emphasis.
In the evenings, he will host a short talk and informal discussion — sharing insights into his process, inspiration, and approach to capturing the light and atmosphere of the Highlands. Six weeks prior to the course, an advisory list of materials to bring will be sent out. A number of field-easels and painting stools belonging to the hotel, will be available.
Your will stay at The Oykel Bridge Hotel. All the rooms are ensuite, and all meals are provided, which include a full Scottish Breakfast, a Packed Lunch and a Four Course Dinner — leaving you free to relax and fully immerse yourself in painting and drawing.
If you would like to bring a non-painting partner, they would be very welcome, there is a lot to see and do: Walking, Golf and Loch Trout Fishing, to name a few things.
If you’re not driving yourself to the hotel, you’ll arrive in Inverness by train or plane. From there, it’s just a scenic 1½-hour drive to the hotel, where Richard will personally meet and escort you through some of Scotland’s most beautiful landscapes. We’ll recommend flight and train options in advance to help everyone arrive around the same time — so you can relax, meet your fellow painters and start to unwind.
The price is all inclusive Board, Lodgings and Tuition
Your stay includes:
Call 01549 441218 for bookings.
The Price does not include transport, airfares/train, insurance and staff gratuities.
The Course will have a maximum of twelve people.
To reserve your place on the Painting Course, a deposit of 50% of the course fee is required. The remaining balance is due two months prior to the start date. Alternatively, the full amount may be paid upfront.
You are required to have your own comprehensive travel insurance when attending the workshop including trip cancellation and liability cover, full cover for your personal belongings, accident and emergency cover etc., since this is not covered by The Oykel Bridge Hotel’s insurance.
Deposit is refundable (minus bank fees and 10% admin charge) for up to 30 days. After 30 days, £400 of the deposit is non-refundable. Within two months of the workshop itself, there is a no refund policy.
If the workshop is cancelled for any reason, all workshop payments will be refunded in full.