Roses & Castles: A canal folk art workshop on the water

Do you know why, as the British canal system declined in the 19th century, working narrowboats began to bloom with Roses & Castles? Step aboard the Floating Garden barge and journey back to the 1850s. Explore the origins of Roses & Castles, a colourful canal folk art rooted in the lives of boat people, and discover how this visual language expressed pride, individuality, and a sense of home on the water.

Guided by an artist, you will learn how to paint traditional rose motifs and design your own Roses & Castles canal panel. Each participant will create a hand-painted wooden panel, finished as a decorative object inspired by canal heritage, suitable for hanging or display in your home.

You are warmly encouraged to reflect on your own “rose” and “castle”, symbols of what you cherish, remember, or call home, and bring these unique elements into your design.

No prior experience is needed. All materials are provided.

Open to all, capacity: 12

Thursday, May 21, 2026

6 - 8 p.m.

Floating Garden

Head to the full event page to book your free place.

About the Canal Creative Calendar (CCC)

The Canal Creative Calendar (CCC) is a monthly programme of art and nature events hosted on the Floating Garden Barge, produced by the non-profit arts organisation Canal Dream CIC in partnership with the environmental charity Global Generation. It connects people with the waterways through diverse, sustainable creative activities inspired by the canal’s communities, environment, art and cultural heritage. As an emerging initiative without core funding, all ticket income supports essential costs and the continued development of community-based programmes.