Nairn is a great place for a relaxing break, with its beaches, walks, shops and plenty of places to eat. But if you fancy doing something a little different during your stay, why not try one of the local craft or creative experiences?
Nairn has a lovely community of artists and makers with opportunities to try everything from pottery and painting to knitting and other crafts. There are plenty of craft workshops in Nairn to choose from, making it a lovely way to spend a few hours and discover something new during your stay.
And if you’re staying at Douglas House Apartments, most of the town is right on your doorstep.
If you’ve ever fancied having a go at pottery, The Slip Studio in Nairn is worth a look.
They run a range of pottery workshops where you can try your hand at making your own pieces, including mugs, plates and other ceramic projects. There are also seasonal workshops throughout the year.
You don’t need to be a pottery expert either. The workshops are aimed at giving you the chance to have a go, learn something new and hopefully end up with something you’ve made yourself.
It’s a lovely way to spend a few hours during your stay in Nairn, whether you’re visiting with friends, family or as a couple.
For anyone who enjoys painting, drawing or other creative hobbies, Nairn Arts Society runs regular workshops and creative sessions.
The society covers a wide range of activities, including watercolours, acrylics, oils, silk painting, jewellery and other crafts. They also have visiting artists running workshops throughout the year.
It’s a nice option if you enjoy learning something new while you’re away. You may even pick up a new hobby to continue when you get home.
Their workshops and activities change throughout the year, so it’s worth checking what’s coming up during your visit.
If you’re a keen knitter or just enjoy having a look around a good craft shop, make sure you have a wander into Nairn Wool Shop on Falconers Lane.
You’ll find wool, fabrics, beads, kits and other crafting supplies, as well as local craft activities and a regular knit and natter group.
Even if you’re not planning to take part in a workshop, it’s the sort of little independent shop that’s worth popping into while you’re exploring the town.
You might even find yourself coming home with a new project.
You don’t have to book a workshop to enjoy Nairn’s creative side.
There are several independent shops and galleries around the town where you can find handmade gifts, artwork, jewellery and other Scottish crafts.
Crafty Wee Birdie is one to look out for if you’re after something a bit different to take home. You’ll find Scottish-sourced handmade gifts, jewellery and homewares.
There’s also Brae Gallery on Nairn High Street which showcases work from local artists and other Scottish creatives.
Taking a wander around the High Street is an easy way to discover some of these smaller independent businesses while you’re here.
If you’re interested in sustainable crafts, keep an eye on what’s happening at Green Hive in Nairn.
They run various community projects and workshops, including activities using unwanted textiles and materials. Their Zero Waste Fabrics Store is a particularly interesting idea, helping people learn sewing and creative skills while giving old materials another use.
It’s a good example of the community-focused side of Nairn and something a little different from the usual tourist activities.
One of the nice things about Nairn is that you don’t have to plan every minute of your day.
You could start with a walk along the beach, have a wander around the High Street, stop for lunch and then spend an afternoon trying a craft workshop.
If you’re searching for craft workshops in Nairn, this combination of independent shops, creative spaces and local activities makes it easy to put together a relaxed afternoon without travelling far.
You could also combine a workshop with some time exploring Nairn’s cafés, shops and galleries, making a full day of discovering the town’s independent side.
For more ideas, have a look at our guide to scenic walks in Nairn or discover some of the hidden gems around Nairn.
Douglas House Apartments is just off Nairn High Street, so it’s a handy base for exploring the town on foot.
You can head out for a morning walk, browse the local shops, stop for coffee, try a workshop and then come back to the apartment to relax.
Nairn also makes a great base if you’re planning to explore further afield with Inverness, Cawdor and the wider Moray Firth area all within easy reach.
If you’re looking for more ideas for your trip, take a look at our guides to Nairn Beach, places to eat in Nairn and our favourite things to do around Nairn.
Whether you’re already a keen crafter or you’ve never picked up a paintbrush or piece of clay before, trying something creative can be a lovely addition to your stay.
Check what’s happening locally before you arrive, as workshops and events change throughout the year and some need to be booked in advance.
And who knows, you might leave Nairn with a handmade souvenir that means a lot more because you made it yourself.
Take a look at our Douglas House Apartments and start planning your next stay in Nairn.
