Belfast writing retreat takes place during
October 6th to 12th, 2025
“Belfast has the vibe of a city and the warmth of a small town."
Growing up in Belfast and living through what is colloquially termed ‘the Troubles,’ the decades-old war in Northern Ireland, co-founder and lead writing tutor Sean Hillen returned home delighted to find his native city as one of the welcoming cities he’s ever been on his travels as a foreign correspondent and author.
So, we at ‘Ireland Writing Retreat,’ proudly named by the national newspaper, The Guardian, among the Top Ten creative retreats of any kind in Europe, are delighted to announce the launch of our first-ever writing retreat this October in this intriguing city, a place with a fascinating history and an impressive selection of top-notch tourism attractions.
To honor this inaugural occasion, we’ve lined up some extra special activities to complement our author-led writing workshops in both fiction and nonfiction, including memoir, hosted by two specialised tutors-cum-authors and Sean.
Highlights of the week for participants will include the following -
Three complimentary lunches in chosen cafes that offer participants a chance to soak the character and ambiance.
A special guided walking tour of the city.
A live cultural evening soiree.
Visits to city's iconic sites with assignments carefully woven in the experience.
Writing workshops focusing on assignments during the week as well as work in progress.
Other surprise activities which, after more than ten years organising such retreats, including in cities such as Paris, have no doubt will create memorable experiences.
Accommodation is organised in single, ensuite rooms with breakfast at the eclectic and environmentally friendly, centrally located hotel Room2 Belfast.
Location: Belfast, Northern Ireland
As our week-long retreats are bespoke, we can only host a limited number of participants on each retreat, so if you are interested, we advise you to sign up now to avoid disappointment. Due to ever-increasing popularity, acceptance on our retreats is not just on a first-come, first-served basis. Just as important is your response to a special application questionnaire we will send you. That's why payments are ONLY accepted from participants AFTER selection has been confirmed.
Price for one week-long session - 2,450 Euro* Participation package includes: accommodation in single, en-suite rooms for six nights, breakfast, workshops, guest author appearances, diverse activities and excursions to awaken inspiration, and transport (only related to excursions), three lunches, welcome food and drinks evening event and entertainment for the ‘see you soon’ good-bye event.
We have a most generous Early Bird package valid until June 30th, so become a Friend of the Ireland Writing Retreat (it’s free) and access this exclusive offer.
Email your interest by filling in the form below, giving full contact details, so we can reach out to you with further details.
*As places are limited and workshops tailored on participants' needs, you are entitled to a full refund within one week of your payment. We cannot offer any refunds for cancellations or no-show situations after that. Please consider travel cancellation insurance whenever making travel plans. By sending this registration form you accept our Terms & Conditions.