For many aspiring authors, the distractions of daily life can turn writing a book into a frustrating and elusive task. Seeking boltholes that offer both creative support and solitude in inspiring landscapes, I embarked on a journey through various writing retreats across the United Kingdom. This exploration not only rejuvenated my writing process but ultimately led to the completion of my novel.
The Initial Spark and the Need for Retreat
The idea for my novel struck me vividly as I walked over the Thames on the Golden Jubilee Bridge in central London. A scene emerged from the deep blue dusk and clung to me until I committed to writing it into existence. However, months later, it became clear that half-hour writing sessions at the end of my working day were insufficient to reach the finish line. This realisation propelled me into the world of writing retreats, spaces designed to rejuvenate even the most frazzled and blocked writers.
Self-Guided Solitude in Wales
My first retreat was a self-guided experience in a converted chapel in Llanfrynach village, near Abergavenny, nestled in the foothills of Bannau Brycheiniog, also known as the Brecon Beacons. Over three solitary nights, I developed a routine of morning writing followed by strolls along the damp banks of the River Usk, where clouds of marsh hair moss helped untangle plot knots in the cold Welsh air. Inspired by Dylan Thomas's love of walking, I found that Wales perfectly met a writer's need to both walk and write. While I accomplished a great deal in this distraction-free long weekend, the eerie idyll left me missing the camaraderie of fellow writers to bounce ideas off.
Structured Support in Devon
Rewarding myself for reaching 50,000 words, my next stop was the Urban Writers' Retreat in a spacious Georgian farmhouse near Newton Abbot, Devon. Founded by Charlie Haynes, whose supportive approach I had appreciated in an online course, this retreat offered three nights of unfettered time away from life's admin. I immersed myself in my story, preferring the drawing room's window seat over my room's desk, as I gazed at gardens and farm animals. With six guests, we gathered for meals and writing discussions in the cosy kitchen. The relief from meal prep, coupled with Charlie's exceptional cooking featuring dishes like herb-crusted salmon and homemade cake, made this retreat a restorative experience, even if I had not written a word.
Conceptual Clarity in Scotland
As my novel slipped down my priority list, becoming a neglected digital document, I turned to Acorn Writing Retreats. Established by Dr Rebecca Maxwell Stuart, who drew on her PhD experience, these retreats aim to help writers tackle unwieldy manuscripts. "Coming on an Acorn retreat allows writers time and opportunity to have conceptual clarity on their projects, but also leave feeling good about themselves," she explains. At the Oak Tree Inn in Balmaha, amid the expansive Loch Lomond landscape, I joined a diverse group of eight writers for a four-day retreat. This structured programme included goal setting, four daily writing sessions, and short activities that jump-started ideas and energised my writing. Writing together around a horseshoe table fostered support and momentum, while optional evening meditations and walks along the lochside hills instilled hope in my long-term project.
Community and Technique in Brighton
Sometimes, it's the right people at the right time that make a writing break memorable, as I discovered at Rewrite, a retreat for women of colour founded by author Christina Fonthes. The Brighton weekend retreat focused on technique, with structured sessions helping us find our voice, followed by workshops and an open mic finale. Christina emphasises the connection between mind and body to avoid burnout, common among Black women, incorporating daily yoga practice. Discussing themes like beauty, Blackness, and belonging in a safe space with other women of colour edged me closer to the final draft of my novel.
Final Solitude in East Sussex
With the end in sight, I needed solitude to write my way to the finish. A wood cabin at Starcroft Farm, overlooking Powdermill Wood near Battle in East Sussex, provided the perfect setting. Created by historian Hannah Stuart-Leach and her husband Tom, each bijou cabin features a desk area, bathroom, kitchenette, and a bedroom with a stargazing skylight. My cabin had a pagan-inspired atmosphere, with a curated collection of craft books and witchy tomes, plus a box of spells for downtime. A thoughtful touch was a gift-wrapped copy of Soldier Sailor by Claire Kilroy, chosen by local independent Rother Books based on a pre-trip questionnaire. While I worked alone, Starcroft Farm also offers sessions with writing coaches for small-group retreats. Tucked into the writing nook, I produced my best work and finally completed my novel.
Reflections and Practical Details
Finishing my novel brought an enormous sense of achievement. While there's no substitute for consistent writing, having days of literary luxury with like-minded people made the process more enjoyable and effective. For those interested, retreat costs vary: The Old Chapel in Llanfrynach is £487 for three nights, Urban Writers' Retreat starts at £415 for three nights, Acorn Writing Retreats offer all-inclusive rates from £525 for three days, Rewrite in East Sussex from £1,700 for five nights, and Starcroft Farm cabins from £320 for a two-night independent break. Fiona McAuslan, the author of this journey, hopes to have her debut novel published in 2027.
