It has always been my intention to make the Solo Writing Retreats accessible and inclusive. From my own experience, I know how difficult it can be to make the time, space and financial commitment that it takes to write.
I am acutely aware that there is so much gatekeeping that goes on in the industry and that there are so many barriers to creative opportunities for writing, especially for women. So, I want to help others and open up the space to those who would otherwise be unable to access it.
In the future, I really hope to offer fully funded places. Whilst I work on making this a reality, The Nest Residency is the opportunity to apply for a subsidised spot to experience a two night retreat for just £50 on selected dates.
You can find out more about the space and see what it looks like here.
The residency is open to anyone who would otherwise be unable to access a retreat.
To be eligible, you must reside in the UK and not yet have had any writing published by a professional publishing company (if you have self-published you can still apply).
Deadline
Applications have now closed, thanks to all those who applied. New dates and details of how to apply will be shared in late Spring.
The residency details
The residency is the opportunity to experience a two night retreat for just £50. You can find out more about the space and see what it looks like here.
Please note, you will need to cover the cost of travel to and from the retreat and the retreat is self-catered (there are some kitchen basics and some welcome snacks but meals will not be provided).
Please make sure you read all the retreat terms and conditions before applying and the Things to Note section below.
Things to note
The annex is attached to our house but it has its own separate entrance and is self-contained. Lucy will available should you need anything.
The retreat is self-catered, the kitchen has a microwave, hob and oven and all kitchen utensils and crockery and cutlery.
We recommend bringing wellies or outdoor shoes and waterproofs as the grounds and garden can get rather muddy and slippy.
Slippers and warm, comfy clothes are also recommended.
The bathroom is located downstairs with bath and overhead shower and is accessed through the well room.
Ideally, you will need a car if you want to explore the area whilst you’re here, as we live at the bottom of a country lane which has quite a few potholes. We do know a fantastic taxi driver in the village and there is a bus stop that is walking distance (down narrow and very windy country lanes).
Due to our location, wifi and phone reception can at times be a little patchy, so please bear this in mind.
Lastly, the house is very old (we love this fact) but it does mean it has many quirks such as a downstairs bathroom, small steps into some of the rooms, narrow stairs and low ceilings meaning that I am afraid it is not suitable for anyone with mobility needs.
“The Nest Residency was exactly the tonic I needed! From the moment I knew I was going on the retreat to the moment I said goodbye to Cornwall, Lucy made me feel welcome, safe and – really importantly – like my need for time to write was completely legitimate. The space is beautiful – it’s cosy, warm and gave me the real sense of being held. Lucy provided wonderful resources, including poetry, writing magazines, prompts and novels that helped get bring my creativity to the forefront. The snack selection was also incredible! I would recommend The Nest so, so highly for anyone who needs a bit of breathing room to get down to writing and be looked after by the most generous host.”
review by a previous nest residency guest