Retreat in the Yorkshire Dales

I have just returned from a week’s writing retreat at The Garsdale Retreat, a creative writing centre in the remote and beautiful setting of The Yorkshire Dales, where I enjoyed the peace, the sunshine, the spring lambs and the daffodils.

The Garsdale Retreat provides inspirational courses tutored by professional writers, enabling participants to develop their individual creativity in a place of peace and tranquillity, away from the distractions and stresses of everyday life. You can also stay there just to write and dream whilst enjoying the countryside.

All the meals were provided, enabling me to focus entirely on my writing, whilst enjoying excellent locally sourced food in simple and comfortable surroundings.  I stayed in the attractive Edwardian house, complete with fabulous real fires to warm the chillier evenings. The workshops were held in a converted coach-house, from which I enjoyed the inspirational and stunning landscape of The Yorkshire Dales. I could walk directly from the house into the National Park where Shetland type ponies roamed free. After dinner, evenings were spent listening to readings, enjoying a visit from a well known poet or playing games.

The Garsdale Retreat was the ideal place to reconnect with self and creativity after two years of health challenges.  I could completely focus on my passion for writing and while enjoying a rich and revitalising experience.

I loved Rebecca’s very healthy  (non meat) ‘cordon bleu’ meals and the escape from domestic chores (no cooking or washing up!), giving the luxury of time and space for writing and contemplation.

The remote beauty of our Yorkshire Dales location was very much appreciated. I had forgotten how stunning the landscape is and I hear that last summer, a few intrepid souls enjoyed swimming in the River Clough!

What do you do to take time out for yourself and escape the pressure of daily life?