Hawkwood College is an ethical centre which is a Grade II listed 19th Century country house surrounded by 42 acres of sustainably managed woodland, farmland and gardens, all overlooking the Severn Vale. Set in an Area Of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Hawkwood is an inspiring and wonderfully peaceful location.
Established in 1948 as an independent centre for learning founded on Rudolf Steiner’s anthrosophical values. Hawkwood endeavours to uphold his beliefs which have had such a profound and positive influence on education, the arts and agriculture.
The course programme has broadened and diversified over the years to re-align the original Steiner design with the changes of our ever evolving world but the original Steiner impulse is always at the heart of this organisation. The registered charity offers an extensive array of courses both residential and non-residential; these leading edge courses offer an unique mix of new, creative and exciting content often not otherwise available.
Ten acres of sustainably managed woodland bounds the estate, twenty acres of grassland are managed by Stroud Community Agriculture and the gardens include a Victorian half-walled garden growing fruit, vegetables, herbs and flowers for use within the house. There is an award-winning pond and wetlands system on site while the mature ornamental grounds have a magnificent sycamore tree standing beside the constantly flowing Hawkwood spring.
Tucked away in the woods situated behind the house is the Woodland sanctuary, a place for quiet and stillness for use by guests. Hawkwood is well-known for its delicious, fresh, wholesome food. They use mostly organic and locally sourced food, some so fresh it is grown in their own walled garden. Some special diets can be catered for with adequate prior notice.
Hawkwood can sleep up to 50 people in single, twin and multi-occupancy rooms. These warm, comfortable rooms with original features enjoy views across the valley or onto the gardens. All rooms are fitted with hand basins; bathrooms and toilets are located nearby on each floor. It is recommended that students book early to get the room type of their choice.
If coming by car: From the west and north, take Exit 13 off the M5 and follow signs to Stroud centre. From the east, take Exit 15 off the M4 and follow the A419 past Cirencester to Stroud. If coming from the Oxford area, follow the A429 or B4425 off the A40 to Cirencester. Follow the A419 from Cirencester as above. From Stroud centre, follow the A46, then the Painswick Old Road (which is signposted ‘to Wick St.'). Please contact us if you would like more detailed instructions (also included on confirmation forms sent after booking).
By Train
If coming by train, take a taxi from the Stroud train station (max. 2 miles). For hiking enthusiasts, it takes approximately half an hour by foot!
By Plane
If coming by plane, the closest airports are Bristol, Birmingham and Heathrow. Take a bus/train from Bristol, Birmingham or Heathrow to Stroud. From Stroud train station, take a taxi to Hawkwood (2 miles). We would be pleased to send you further information on the facilities available at Hawkwood for conferences or courses you would like to hold. See 'Venue' section for information.
Venue Address: Hawkwood College Painswick Old Road Stroud GL6 7QW