Essex Writing Retreats –

Residential and Day Retreats

Book a retreat

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Welcome to Essex Writing Retreats!

Embark on a transformative writing journey with Just Keep Writing, our family-run business dedicated to supporting writers, academics, and PhD students. Essex Writing Retreats is more than just a space; it’s a vibrant community celebrating the art of writing and scholarly pursuits. Whether you’re an academic, a PhD student, or a writer seeking inspiration, our retreats offer everything you need to immerse yourself in a supportive atmosphere, where writing is your only focus.

Contact Us: Ready to get your writing on track? Get in touch to book your next writing retreat. Join us in embracing the joy of writing in the heart of Essex!

What we offer:

Day Retreats

A structured day of undisturbed writing, with a comprehensive 9 am to 5 pm program, including goal setting, focused sessions, breaks, lunch, and physical exercise for a balanced and productive experience. Priced at £100 per day, inclusive of snacks, drinks, and lunch.

Day Retreat Packages

Take advantage of our 6-day retreat package for the price of 5. Ideal for utilizing research funding, pay £500 and use your 6 days individually throughout the year. 

Residential Retreats

Indulge in an extended writing experience with comfortable accommodations and delicious meals. Indicative charges range from £300-£400 for two nights; exact charges vary by location. Contact us for more information.

Location

Picture of the gorgeous Wivenhoe sunset over the river - credit: Murray Wilson
Wivenhoe Sunset – Credit: Murray Wilson

Our retreats are situated in the picturesque town of Wivenhoe in North Essex. The tranquil surroundings of this charming town, with its woods, waterfronts, farms, and country tracks, provide the perfect setting for a rejuvenating escape. During our mid-day breaks, you can immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area before returning to your writing haven.

If you book a residential retreat, you’ll get to spend a few days in Wivenhoe, exploring the town and its surroundings. You might even take a trip to the beach, only a few minutes drive away!

Unless I let you know otherwise, our retreats take place in my house in Wivenhoe. I have a lovely heated conservatory overlooking the garden, where I spend most of my work hours. The conservatory provides a therapeutic environment with plenty of natural light and can be used all year round. If the weather is scorching hot or there’s a massive blizzard, the retreats will likely run from another venue in the village.

Sleeping arrangements for residential retreats will be agreed upon separately; I work with a handful of the local Airbnbs and Guest Houses. These are included in the residential packages, so you will not need to worry about any of these details yourself. 

Who are the Writing Retreats for:

  • Academics and Researchers: Those engaged in scholarly pursuits seeking focused time for writing papers, articles, research projects, or theses.
  • Ph.D. Students: Individuals pursuing doctoral studies looking for uninterrupted periods to progress with their research and dissertation writing.
  • Writers and Authors: Creative writers or individuals working on novels, books, or other literary projects seeking an inspiring environment for their writing endeavours.
  • Professionals: Anyone, regardless of industry, in need of dedicated time and space for strategic writing, such as reports, proposals, or business-related content.
  • Creatives: Individuals involved in various creative fields, including artists, poets, and content creators, who wish to explore and enhance their creative writing skills.

Why Choose Essex Writing Retreats:

  • Tailored Support: Thrive and make significant progress with our supportive environment. In addition to focused writing, benefit from peer-to-peer support, tailored guidance, and optional coaching in select retreats.
  • Inspiring Atmosphere: Wivenhoe’s picturesque landscapes and historical charm serve as the perfect muse for your creative endeavours. Stay tuned as we explore additional venues, possibly expanding to the seafront!
  • Community Connection: Connect with like-minded individuals, share ideas, and foster camaraderie in a community that values the power of writing.

For Bookings and Queries, email:

Essexwritingretreats@gmail.com 

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