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Write without the distractions of home in our nurturing writing retreat

Two days of writing, workshops, writing experts on tap and activities, all designed to improve the quality of your writing and get your word count up.

The Bournemouth Writing Sanctuary is perfect for everyone currently writing a novel or creative non-fiction/memoir. Whether you're just starting out, in the middle or nearing the end of your manuscript, this writing retreat offers a dedicated space to write with intention, get expert guidance from industry professionals, and connect with fellow writers.

Book tickets here!

16th and 17th January 2027
at the seaview Cottonwood Hotel, Bournemouth

Just

write

£65

A full day of uninterrupted writing in a beautiful sea-view space. Bring your own project and enjoy the quiet motivation of writing alongside other writers.

Space to write.
Lunch, snacks and drinks.
Free parking.
No booking fees.

Max 5 spaces per day

Book here

Day

Tickets

£179

An intimate morning workshop with authors Sue Cheung and Emma Scattergood on either Saturday or Sunday.

Lunch and refreshments
Uninterrupted time to write
Free parking
No booking fees

Max 6 spaces per day

Book here

All-Inclusive

£349

Two days of inspiring workshops to improve your craft plus time to work on your own manuscript.

Lunch and refreshments
Individual 1-2-1s with both Sue and Emma offering personalised guidance.
Social dinner at the Cumberland Hotel (max £30)
Optional social get-together on Friday evening.

Max 12 people

Book here

Accommodation is not included but we can help you find somewhere in your budget (for free).

Payment plans also available. Contact us for details.

Writing Professionals

Experts to help you get the words out of your head and into the world.

Sue Cheung - both days

Multi-award winning author.

Sue is the author of the award-winning memoir Chinglish, featuring as The Guardian's Best Book of the Year. She also writes and illustrates for Young Adults and children.

She is currently adapting Chinglish into a TV series.

Find out more about Sue Cheung here.

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Emma Scattergood - both days

Author, Journalist and Mentor.

Emma has over 30 years’ experience of working for major publishing companies and had seven books published. She launched Bournemouth University’s MA Creative Writing & Publishing, Fresher Publishing Press and The Bournemouth Writing Prize.

She now mentors writers who are preparing for publication.

Find out more about Emma Scattergood.

Dominic Wong - Both days

Self-published author and Festival director of the Bournemouth and Romance Writing Festivals where he connects and inspires writers at all stages of their journey.

Dominic is an award-winning marketing consultant specialising in theme parks, attractions, and tourism. He served as the first Marketing Director of the Harry Potter Studio Tour, Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood, and Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi.

Catherine, Devizes, Somerset

“The fizz of creativity generated during the workshops and in-between with all the amazing authors has inspired me to keep going and stay connected.

I couldn't have asked for a better weekend"

Location

Our sanctuary will be at the Cottonwood Hotel, with stunning sea views, a sun terrace and a private garden.

Originally built in the 19th Century, the Cottonwood Hotel is a characterful building that still carries echoes of its former glory, with creaking floors and old-fashioned details creating a relaxed, unpretentious space that’s ideal for thinking, writing and slowing down. It is accessed by Grove Road.

Please note the Cottonwood Hotel is NOT accessible. There are stairs leading to the entrance and stairs to the toilets.

Driving: There is free parking for all sanctuary writers.
Bournemouth train station is less than a mile away.
The number 33 bus stops outside the hotel.
Bournemouth Town Centre is less than a mile away.

Bournemouth has an abundance of accommodation, with lots of hotels, guest houses and AirBnBs to choose from to suit all ranges of budgets. Contact us if you'd like recommendations or help finding the right place to stay (free service).