Are Writing Retreats Worth It? Here's What Past Participants Say

One of the questions I'm asked most often is whether a writing retreat is really worth it.

It's an understandable question. Taking five days away from work, family and everyday responsibilities is a significant commitment, and many writers wonder whether they'll really write more, feel more creative or return home any different.

Of course, I could tell you what I think. My Writing & Meditation Retreats in Pembrokeshire combine creative writing, meditation, periods of silence and a full digital detox to help writers reconnect with their creativity in a peaceful coastal setting.

But I don't think I'm the best person to answer that question. The people who have attended my Writing & Meditation Retreats are.

I recently set up a Google Reviews page and have spent the past few weeks reading through the generous reviews people have left. What has moved me most is not simply that they describe the retreats as a wonderful five days. It is that, months later, they are still describing the ways those five days continue to shape their creative, spiritual and political lives.

What Makes This Writing Retreat Different?

Having now facilitated retreats for hundreds of writers, I've realised that good writing rarely comes from forcing ourselves to produce more. It comes from creating the right conditions. That's why each retreat combines:

• 🌿 Guided meditation

• 📖 Long stretches of uninterrupted writing time

• ✍️ Creative writing workshops

• 🥗 Delicious vegetarian meals

• 🌊 Sea swims on the Pembrokeshire coast

• 🕯️ Community circles

• 🤫 Periods of silence

• 📵 A full digital detox

Phones are put away for the duration of the retreat, creating the increasingly rare gift of uninterrupted attention. Rather than trying to maximise productivity, the retreat is designed to help you reconnect with your creativity and remember why you wanted to write in the first place.

If you'd like to know more about the rhythm of the week, you can read What Does a Typical Day Look Like on a Writing and Meditation Retreat?

So, Are Writing Retreats Really Worth It?

Ultimately, I think the people who've attended answer that question far better than I ever could.

If you've found yourself saying, "I'll get back to my writing when life is a little less busy," perhaps this is your invitation not to wait.

There are now just a handful of places remaining on my next Writing & Meditation Retreat, taking place from 20 to 25 September 2026 in Pembrokeshire, West Wales. I'd love to welcome you.

Hello, I’m Holly.

I offer creative writing retreats in Pembrokeshire, online writing groups, book mentoring and editorial support for you and your writing.

I’d love to hear from you, if you have any questions about my retreats or how you can work with me, please contact me below.