The JMS Writing Retreat is an opportunity to immerse yourself in a period of focused, peer-led writing and reflection. You will be guided by the JMS Interns who will provide you with a broad itinerary and prompt you to draw what you need from the experience of the retreat. On arrival, the venue will also provide an illustrated history, conservation and sustainability talk regarding the site.

Dates: Wednesday 17 to Friday 19 September 2025

Location: Mansion House at The Burn, Glenesk, Brechin Aberdeenshire, DD9 7YP (approx. 2hr 6m from Glasgow by road)

Itinerary

1. 08:45 Meet Up
2. 12:00 Arrival
3. 12:00 – 14:00 Check in + Lunch
4. 14:00 – 15:30 Nature Walk
5. 15:00 – 18:00 Team Building Game: Charades
6. 18:00 Dinner
   

Thursday 18th

1. 09:30 – 10:00 Outline
2. 10:00 – 11:30 Writing Session 1
3. 11:30 – 11:50 Break
4. 11:50 – 13:20 Writing Session 2
5. 13:20 – 14:20 Lunch
6. 14:30 – 16:00 Writing Session 3
7. 16:00 – 16:20 Break
8. 16:20 – 17:50 Writing Session 4
9. 18:00 Dinner

Friday 19th

1. 09:00 – 10:30 Writing Session 1
2. 10:30 – 10:50 Break
3. 10:50 – 11:50 Writing Session 2
4. 11:50 – 12:10 Closing Remarks + Feedback
5. 12:10 – 12:50 Check Out + Packed Lunch
6. 12:50 Board the Bus

*When placing your booking, please advise us of any dietary requirements.