From Solitary Chapels to Structured Sanctuaries: A Writer's Retreat Journey Across the UK
For many aspiring authors, the distractions of daily life can transform the dream of writing a book into a frustrating and elusive task. Seeking boltholes that offer both creative support and inspiring solitude, one writer embarked on a series of retreats across the United Kingdom, discovering how these spaces can rejuvenate even the most frazzled and blocked writers.
Initial Steps: Solitude in the Welsh Countryside
The journey began with a self-guided retreat at a converted chapel in Llanfrynach village, near Abergavenny, nestled in the foothills of Bannau Brycheiniog, formerly known as the Brecon Beacons. Embracing the Welsh tradition of walking and writing, the writer developed a routine of morning writing sessions followed by strolls along the damp banks of the River Usk. Surrounded by clouds of marsh hair moss, the cold Welsh air helped untangle plot complexities, leading to significant progress over a long weekend. However, the eerie idyll highlighted a longing for community and the chance to bounce ideas off fellow writers.
Structured Support in Devon and Scotland
Rewarding a milestone of 50,000 words, the next stop was the Urban Writers' Retreat in a Georgian farmhouse near Newton Abbot, Devon. Founded by Charlie Haynes, this retreat provided unfettered time away from life's admin, with guests meeting for meals and writing discussions in a cosy kitchen. The mental relief of not preparing meals, coupled with herb-crusted salmon and homemade cakes, added to the restorative experience.
Later, at Acorn Writing Retreats, founded by Dr Rebecca Maxwell Stuart, the writer joined a diverse group at the Oak Tree Inn in Balmaha, overlooking Loch Lomond. This structured retreat included goal-setting sessions and four daily writing activities, fostering momentum and support among eight writers. Optional evening meditations and walks along the lochside hills instilled hope and belief in completing the long-term project.
Community and Technique in Brighton
Sometimes, it's the right people at the right time that make a writing break memorable. At Rewrite, a retreat for women of colour founded by author Christina Fonthes in Brighton, the focus shifted to technique and voice. Structured sessions included workshops and an open mic finale, while daily yoga practices emphasised mind-body connection to avoid burnout. Discussing themes like beauty and Blackness in a safe space edged the novel closer to its final draft.
Final Push in an East Sussex Cabin
With the end in sight, solitude became key. A wood cabin at Starcroft Farm near Battle in East Sussex, curated by historian Hannah Stuart-Leach and her husband Tom, offered a magical space with a desk, stargazing skylight, and a curated bookshelf. A personalised gift from a local bookshop added a thoughtful touch, and the writer found it impossible not to produce their best work in this nurturing environment.
Conclusion and Practical Details
The writer successfully finished their novel, attributing the achievement to a mix of solitary dedication and the luxury of retreats with like-minded people. For those inspired, options include The Old Chapel in Llanfrynach at £487 for three nights, Urban Writers' Retreat from £415, Acorn Writing Retreats from £525 for three days, Rewrite from £1,700 for five nights, and Starcroft Farm cabins from £320 for two nights. These retreats demonstrate that while consistent effort is essential, periodic literary escapes can make the writing journey more enjoyable and productive.
