Writers’ Cabin
It’s easy to see why the Sunday Times named the Writers’ Cabin as one of the best retreats in the UK. Cosy yet luxurious, the cabin for two is situated off the beaten track, on the edge of Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park, so you can enjoy stunning views over the Taran Mountain range as you set to on your work in progress. But it’s not just the location, it’s the attention to detail – from the complimentary sauna and bespoke bottle of Poetry Pharmacy ‘Retreat’ Pills to the ergonomic chair for marathon writing and wooden veranda for after-dinner reflections. This self-led writer’s retreat is perfect for those who crave the space and time for uninterrupted writing. Although, on-site author coaching is available during week-day retreats if requested.
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Starcroft Farm Cabins
Set amid peaceful Sussex countryside, yet only 90 minutes by train from London, Starcroft Farm Cabins are historical hideaways inspired by women’s stories. Each cabin is a unique creative space filled with art and books and, in summer, seasonal blooms (grown on-site for their creative flower weekends). You can book an independent writing break year-round. Or perhaps join one of their nurturing small-group retreats, which includes a one-to-one with a writing coach, a massage, and a book picked just for you. And for the perfect bookish weekend, look out for their themed experiences… including a new Virginia Woolf-inspired reading retreat. As Virginia famously wrote, ‘a woman must have a room of her own if she is to write’ so why not book yours now? @starcroftfarmcabins
Tŷ Newydd Writing Centre
Tucked away in rural north Wales, Tŷ Newydd Writing Centre is in an enviable location. Sitting in between the mountains of Eryri and the breathtakingly beautiful coastline, you can be at the beach in twenty minutes or down by the river in five. With all meals taken care of and the option to have a tutored or untutored retreat, you can really tailor your stay to suit your writerly needs. So, whether you want to write into the night in your quirky bedroom or spark a conversation with a like-minded soul in the historic library, Tŷ Newydd Writing Centre offers the perfect combination of provisions to allow you to find your creative muse this summer.
Arvon
Arvon’s residential programme offers something truly unique: uninterrupted time to write in inspiring surroundings, with expert guidance and the support of a creative community. This summer marks the much-anticipated reopening of Arvon’s Lumb Bank, a beautifully restored 18th-century house in Yorkshire once home to Ted Hughes and now ready to inspire more writers than ever before. To mark the reopening, Arvon is hosting a special Writers’ Retreat (4–9 August) an untutored week of deep writing time and shared creative company. While a Residential Poetry Course (11–16 August) brings together acclaimed poets Richard Scott, Tara Bergin and Simon Armitage for a week of poetic experimentation and inspiration. Explore more upcoming courses at Lumb Bank and find your perfect writing escape at Arvon.
Bradford Literature Festival (BLF)
Rich in heritage, architecture and culture, not to mention its incredible cuisine, I never need an excuse to visit this vibrant city. But this year I’ll be timing my visit to Bradford to coincide with the Bradford Literature Festival. Running across ten jam-packed days (27 June - 6 July) there will be hundreds of unique events for all ages as BLF welcomes some of the most inspirational and creative figures from the worlds of literature, poetry, business, politics, science, history, film and TV, among many others. And if previous festivals are anything to go by, we’re in for a treat…
A Place to Write
On the edge of the Berwyn Mountains in North Wales, overlooking the breath-taking Dee Valley, A Place to Write provides personalised retreats tailored to each individual writer’s needs. With as much or as little direct support and tutoring as you require, this is a wonderful opportunity to get what you need out of your time away – regardless of your genre or level of experience. Within the grounds of this historic Victorian Sheriff’s property, there are many places to write and be inspired. So, if you want to push on with your latest writing project, why not explore their summer and autumn writing retreats and secure your spot today – places fill quickly!
Charles Causley Trust
Nestled in the picturesque town of Launceston, Cypress Well is the unspoilt home of 20th century poet, Charles Causley. Imagine surrounding yourself with the books and belongings of this internationally renowned poet and being inspired by his creative space. With direct access to the beautiful Cornish countryside, this untutored, residential stay is a wonderful opportunity to meander and ponder. Or you might wish to take advantage of additional options such as one-to-one mentoring, artistic support and guided walks with the Causley staff where you can ask all of your questions about Charles and Launceston. A truly unique experience in a truly unique setting.
Mslexia Novel School
And finally, if the only place you want to venture is your kitchen for an iced-tea, look no further than our very own Mslexia Novel School. Running 7–11 July 2025, this five-day online masterclass is designed for women embarking on a new novel or rethinking a work-in-progress. Each day focuses on a key aspect of the novel-writing craft, taught by acclaimed tutors: Lesley Glaister, Claire Hynes, Jane Rogers and Margaret Wilkinson. But what makes this course truly special is that we support the whole writer by providing motivation and goal-setting workshops with writing coach Bec Evans, drop-in wellbeing surgeries with counsellor Sue Spencer and daily socials hosted by novelist and performer Rosie Garland. This is more than a writing course – it’s a reset. A boost. So don’t miss your chance to be part of this transformative experience.
Here’s to making hay while the sun shines!
Jo x
