We have designed a bespoke programme for everyone to enjoy, from first-time writers to published authors.

Led by Dr Kate Kennedy and Dr Tony Gray, tutors will be eminent writers in the fields of biography, fiction and creative non-fiction.

Have a look at our new brochure for 2025 here.

Praise from previous participants:

“The castle was spectacular! No complaints at all. I loved the setting, the building, the grounds, the peace and quiet. … Thank you for all your help and support throughout the week.”

“I have really enjoyed the week of dicsussion, workshops and practice. … It is a privilege to have stayed here, and felt some of the history.”

“You have been wonderful. Everyone has been supportive and available, and incredibly willing to respond to just about any request.”

“It is a magical place for a writing retreat .”

“Fabulous. You folks are lovely, knowledgeable, helpful readers/critics and generous with your time.”

Dates:
Saturday 24 May — Saturday 31 May: writing course with workshops and seminars
Saturday 31 May — Saturday 7 June: writing course with workshops and seminars

Both weeks will be a tutor-led course, including workshops and seminars.  Workshops and seminars are optional. If you wish to develop your writing, then these will help you along the way. However, if you wish to spend more time on your writing in the peace and quiet of the beautiful surroundings, treating the week like a retreat, you are more than welcome to. You can choose to attend either week, or both weeks.

Accommodation and meals:

Accommodation will be provided in a range of bedrooms in the idyllic Castello di Galbino, or you can arrange your own accommodation in the nearby town of Anghiari and join the course as a non-resident. Find out more about accommodation here.

Delicious Tuscan meals prepared in the castle by local chefs will be provided for all participants. The castle also has a beautiful infinity pool, library and games room.

Practical details:

All meals will be provided at the castle for residents, with the option to sign up for dinner for non-residents. There is a large kitchen at Galbino where you are welcome to use the fridge and to make hot drinks.

We will be running a bus from/to the airport each Saturday, places must be booked in advance.

Please note that Castello di Galbino is a few miles outside Anghiari town: you will need to make your own arrangements (book a taxi, or arrange your own car hire in advance) if you want to go into town during the week for dinner or shopping.

Prices for one week

Residential participant rate: £3,000-£3,200 depending on bedroom
Participant partner rate (sharing the above room): £2,200
Non-participant partner (sharing the above room): £1,200

Non-residential participant rate: £2,200
Please note, if you are not staying at the castle you will need to hire a car, as there is no local bus service.

Book before 1st November 2024 and receive a £200 discount on your booking.

Bookings taking advantage of this offer are non-refundable and will have to be paid at the time of booking.

A 10% discount is available for:

• Anyone wishing to attend both weeks.

• SFU students.

• Returning students .

Only one discount per booking!

You can register your interest in the course with no obligation to book. Once confirmed, to reserve your place we will require a 30% non-refundable deposit, with full payment required by 1 March 2024. If you cancel your place after this point, a refund of the 80% can only be offered if your place can be filled 4 weeks before the start of the course; if we cannot fill your place we will not be able to offer a refund at this late date. We will respond to any such requests on a case-by-case basis.