Liz Fenwick to Lead Creative Writing Retreats at Budock Vean Hotel

Budock Vean Hotel & Spa is hosting two creative writing retreats early next year, led by award-winning, best-selling author Liz Fenwick, offering writers the chance to focus on their craft in a quiet riverside setting in Cornwall.

Set within 65 acres of subtropical gardens and woodland beside the Helford River, the retreats are designed for both beginners and more experienced writers, combining structured teaching with time to write and reflect.

Writing Retreats Led by Liz Fenwick

Liz Fenwick, a Cornish resident and the author of best-selling novels including The Secrets of Harbour House and The River Between Us, will lead two retreats in early 2026. One is aimed at beginners and intermediate writers, while the second is for advanced writers.

Speaking about what attendees can expect, Liz said:
“They can expect energy and passion! I love talking about storytelling from all its angles. I want to get to the heart of why their story needs to be told and how to do that well. Every writer has something that drives them and something that holds them back — and it’s vital to understand both. At the end of the retreat, I want them to leave with tools, confidence, and renewed inspiration.”

Beginners Writers’ Retreat Details

The Beginners Writers’ Retreat runs from 1st–4th February 2026 and is a three-night stay priced from £648 per room, based on two people sharing.

It is aimed at those starting out or developing a first novel, memoir, or collection of short stories, with a mix of group workshops, one-to-one mentoring, and guided writing exercises.

The package includes:

• Three nights’ accommodation with breakfast and dinner each day

• Morning teaching sessions from 9am to 1pm on two days

• One-to-one mentoring session with Liz Fenwick

• Afternoons free for private writing

• Complimentary membership to the Natural Health Spa

• Use of the 9-hole and 18-tee golf course, snooker room, croquet lawn, and tennis courts

• 10% off pre-booked spa treatments

Guests also have access to the hotel’s woodland gardens and riverside surroundings.

A Landscape with Literary History

Budock Vean sits on the Helford River, an area long associated with writers and artists. In 1936, Virginia Woolf stayed at Budock Vean and described the nearby bays as “unspoilt”, even considering buying a cottage in the area. Further along the river, Daphne du Maurier honeymooned and later found inspiration for Frenchman’s Creek.

The Helford has continued to attract creative figures over the years, including Sir Tim Rice, Roger Taylor of Queen, and Kylie Minogue, who chose the river as the setting for her music video Flower.

Budock Vean Hotel & Spa and Liz Fenwick say the retreats aim to continue this creative tradition, offering writers a setting where they can focus fully on their work while enjoying the natural surroundings of Cornwall.