Category: Arts & CraftsSee venue photos

Arts & Crafts

Arty Farty Retreat

Southborough, Kent· TN4 0PL

SEN Suitability Assessment

Based on analysis of 19 public reviews (Feb 2020 – Mar 2026)

78/100

SEN Score

Based on noise, queues, staff, calm spaces

High confidence

Based on 19 reviews.

Breakdown

NoiseOK

Staff supportGood

PredictabilityGood

Calm spacesGood

Small class sizeWelcoming staffBook aheadNot wheelchair accessibleParking challengingWell-equipped space

Parent summary

Arty Farty Retreat comes across as a genuinely welcoming space with attentive staff and a calm, well-equipped environment. The small class sizes and regular weekly sessions mean children can settle into a predictable routine, and parents report their children actively wanting to return. The setting itself isn't overwhelming, which many families find really valuable.

What visitors say

Visitors consistently praise Arty Farty Retreat for its welcoming atmosphere, small class sizes and attentive staff, with many noting the well-equipped space feels calm and manageable rather than overwhelming. Regular weekly sessions have worked well for families seeking routine. The venue has step access at the entrance, so wheelchair users or those with mobility needs would want to check accessibility arrangements in advance. Some visitors have noted the room can feel cool, and parking in the area may require advance planning.

Based on a sample of public reviews. Experiences vary - every child and every visit is different.

Read reviews on Google →

From SEN communities

dedicated SEN workshopssensory art sessions1-to-1 support availableinclusive creative space

Dedicated SENsory workshops mentioned, including WWII-themed session tailored to individual student interests
Runs 'Arty Farty: Sensory School' home education workshops during school closures
Artists deliver SEND-specific classes at special needs secondary schools
Described as 'safe place to express yourself' with explicit SEN support available
Small group and 1-to-1 sessions offered alongside group workshops

Sourced from Instagram, Facebook, official website, community directory, professional networks within the SEN community. Individual experiences vary.

Potential challenges

The building has steps at the entrance, so wheelchair access or buggy use may need advance planning
Parking in the area can be tricky, so arriving with extra time may help with logistics
Some visitors have mentioned the room can feel cool—you may want to bring layers or check heating during winter visits

What works

Small class sizes and personalised tuition
Consistent, positive staff who are responsive to families
Calm, well-resourced environment that doesn't feel chaotic
Predictable weekly structure that children can build familiarity with
Welcoming atmosphere where children feel settled enough to want to keep attending

Photos

Facilities

Party rooms Wheelchair accessible

Tips for your visit

Arty Farty offers expressive therapy and 1-to-1 sessions which may benefit some SEN children. Multiple workshop types available including 'Relax and Create' sessions. Offers school outreach and community group sessions. Contact directly to discuss individual needs and suitability.

Getting in & parking

Step-free entryVisitors report yes
Disabled parkingVisitors report yes
Wheelchair accessibleVisitors report yes
Accessible toiletVisitors report yes

Visitors report: At least 3 disabled parking spaces available on the drive.

Accessibility

Website states 'Accessibility Policy' exists but full details not provided in content. Venue describes itself as 'a safe place to express yourself' and welcomes people 'regardless of ability, age or background.' Contact venue directly for specific accessibility information.

Opening Hours

Monday11:00-19:00

Tuesday10:00-19:00

Wednesday11:00-19:00

Thursday17:00-19:00

Friday10:00-14:30

Saturday10:00-12:00

Frequently asked questions about Arty Farty Retreat

Quick answers drawn from our venue data and review analysis.

Is Arty Farty Retreat autism friendly?

Arty Farty Retreat scores highly for autism and SEN suitability, with an overall SEN score of 78/100 from our analysis of parent reviews. Arty Farty Retreat comes across as a genuinely welcoming space with attentive staff and a calm, well-equipped environment. The small class sizes and regular weekly sessions mean children can settle into a predictable routine, and parents report their children actively wanting to return. The setting itself isn't overwhelming, which many families find really valuable.

Is Arty Farty Retreat wheelchair accessible?

Yes. Arty Farty Retreat is wheelchair and pushchair accessible. Website states 'Accessibility Policy' exists but full details not provided in content. Venue describes itself as 'a safe place to express yourself' and welcomes people 'regardless of ability, age or background.' Contact venue directly for specific accessibility information.

Is Arty Farty Retreat indoors?

Yes. Arty Farty Retreat is an indoor arts & crafts in Southborough, so it works as a rainy-day option regardless of weather.

Do I need to book in advance for Arty Farty Retreat?

Yes. Arty Farty Retreat requires advance booking. Book through the venue's website or by phone before visiting. Same-day entry without a booking is not guaranteed.

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