We have designed a bespoke programme for everyone to enjoy, from first-time writers to published authors. Led by Dr Kate Kennedy and Dr Tony Gray, tutors will be eminent writers in the fields of biography, fiction and creative non-fiction.

Praise from previous participants:

“The castle was spectacular! No complaints at all. I loved the setting, the building, the grounds, the peace and quiet. … Thank you for all your help and support throughout the week.”

“I have really enjoyed the week of dicsussion, workshops and practice. … It is a privilege to have stayed here, and felt some of the history.”

“You have been wonderful. Everyone has been supportive and available, and incredibly willing to respond to just about any request.”

Dates:
Saturday 25 May — Saturday 1 June: writing course with workshops and seminars
Saturday 1 June — Saturday 8 June: writing course with workshops and seminars

Both weeks will be a tutor-led course, including workshops and seminars.  Workshops and seminars are optional. If you wish to develop your writing, then these will help you along the way. However, if you wish to spend more time on your writing in the peace and quiet of the beautiful surroundings, treating the week like a retreat, you are more than welcome to. You can choose to attend either week, or both weeks.

Accommodation and meals:
Accommodation will be provided in a range of bedrooms in the idyllic Castello di Galbino, or you can arrange your own accommodation in the nearby town of Anghiari and join the course as a non-resident. Find out more about accommodation here.

Delicious Tuscan meals prepared in the castle by local chefs will be provided for all participants. The castle also has a beautiful infinity pool, library and games room.

Practical details:
All meals will be provided at the castle for residents, with the option to sign up for dinner for non-residents. There is a large kitchen at Galbino where you are welcome to use the fridge and to make hot drinks.

We will be running a bus from/to the airport each Saturday, places must be booked in advance.

Please note that Castello di Galbino is a few miles outside Anghiari town: you will need to make your own arrangements (book a taxi, or arrange your own car hire in advance) if you want to go into town during the week for dinner or shopping.

Prices for one week

Residential participant rate: £3,000-£3,200 depending on bedroom
Participant partner rate (sharing the above room): £2,200
Non-participant partner (sharing the above room): £1,200

Non-residential participant rate: £2,200
Please note, if you are not staying at the castle you will need to hire a car, as there is no local bus service.

If you would like to attend both weeks, we will apply a 10% discount on the overall price.
Participants booking from SFU will receive 10% discount on any booking (in addition to the above, if you attend both weeks).

You can register your interest in the course with no obligation to book. Once confirmed, to reserve your place we will require a 20% non-refundable deposit, with full payment required by 1 April 2024. If you cancel your place after this point, a refund of the 80% can be offered if your place can be filled 4 weeks before the start of the course; if we cannot fill your place we will not be able to offer a refund at this late date. We will respond to any such requests on a case-by-case basis.