Writing Retreat Reviews & Testimonials

At Acorn Writing Retreats, small ideas really do grow into mighty ambitions.
The following kind words from our retreaters offer a glimpse into the transformative growth that occurs when writers are given time, space and support to flourish:

“The writing retreat is well organised and structured. The quiet care and attention Rebecca gives, allows you the space to focus on writing. If you have something to do, need the headspace for this, then these retreats are for you.”

— Dr Alison Stowell, Lancaster University (2024)

“Rebecca’s attentiveness to details, attention to each of our projects and assistance in fine-tuning our goals was wonderful! She is a fantastic facilitator, who guides the retreat using her experience, heart and soul! (and what a lovely soul it is!)”

— Dr Avital Rom, University of Cambridge (2026)

“The Oak Tree Inn is a glorious location, perfect for a writing retreat and Rebecca and the team provide a very comfortable and welcoming experience. In the course of the few days I managed to draft an entire paper so it was super productive and provided me with the focus I needed. My only complaint is that I couldn’t stay longer!”

— Dr Chloe Preece, King’s College London (2024)

“The Acorn Writing Retreat at The Oak Tree Inn, Loch Lomond, was a fantastic experience that revitalised my writing. Set in a tranquil, picturesque environment, it provided comfortable accommodation and delightful food. The retreat, run by the attentive Rebecca, was well-organised and featured structured, uninterrupted writing sessions with short breaks, enhancing focus and accountability through shared progress updates. The small group setting allowed for personalised feedback and a sense of camaraderie. This retreat was not just beneficial for my writing but also a memorable experience I would love to repeat.”

— Dr Emma G. Akdag, Heriot-Watt University (2024)

“I approached Rebecca after reading about Acorn Writing Retreats in The Guardian, at a time I was feeling overwhelmed by, and hopeless about, my very cumbersome creative non-fiction project. I have had three online mentoring sessions with her (the ‘Sprout' package) over about 5 months. They have moved me on from feeling so stuck. I also felt terribly creatively lonely beforehand and the sessions really felt as thought I was being offered a safe space in which someone was trying really hard to see my project and my creative vision through my eyes, to keep me company in my exploration and to facilitate me finding my way.

I echo all the other reviews. Rebecca is immensely kind, encouraging, clear, thoughtful and containing. She was able to put things together from different parts of what I brought her and helped me see the wood from the trees. She is also very reliable and efficient and just a lovely person to spend any time with! I am so happy and relieved to know that Acorn Writing Retreats exists and will be rebooking sessions and/or a retreat over time as I continue working on my book. Thank you, Rebecca!”

— Dr E.S. (2026)

“This is a brilliant retreat if you want to spend structured, guided time writing. In each session goals and intentions are set and at the end of the session there’s a chance to check in with the super friendly and warm retreat leader. The retreat is held in the charming and comfortable Oak Tree Inn by beautiful Loch Lomond. Time is made for reflection and calming walks to the loch.”

— Helena Appio, Author & Film-Maker (2026)

“Just returned from my second writers retreat at Acorn Writing Retreats. And going to book my third.
This experience allowed me to network with like minded people - creative writers as well as academics.
Write, Relax, Repeat: A Retreat for Writers Who Need a Nudge.
I learnt to create writing habits that stick - not through pressure, but through gentle structured support.
With guided writing sessions, encouraging check-ins, and plenty of downtime to recharge, I left a trail of news words on the page and a stronger sense of discipline.
So I wrote my heart out while being thoroughly coddled.
The Oak Tree Inn is a perfect setting - Scottish countryside and beautiful hospitality meet. Staff so friendly, kind and accommodating.
So whether you’re writing a book, letting poetry run gently through your heart and mind or needing the push to get that PhD finished I would thoroughly recommend the experience.”

— Jacqueline Glen, Creative Writer & Poet (2025)

“With the pressure to be producing 3* and 4* articles I always find it difficult to carve out the space and time where I can generate the conceptual clarity required in constructing articles like these. Attending these retreats have allowed me to do that for the first time so I am absolutely over the moon! There’s something special about the space, being surrounded by nature, good people and food, plus having dedicated writing time is a precious commodity!”

— Dr Johanne Miller, University of the West of Scotland (2024)

“This was my first ever writing retreat I have been to. I wasn’t quite sure what to expect beforehand but it turned out to be such an amazing experience. The peacefulness of the location helped me just to switch off and disappear into my writing.

The structured approach of the retreat was quite amazing and I was impressed at what I was able to achieve in just the short time I was there. Since coming home, I’ve been implementing some of the practices into my normal writing routine and I’m happy to report that my normal input has increased.
Thank you Rebecca for such a wonderful experience.”

— John Hunter, Creative Writer (2026)

“Acorn Writing Retreats is an amazing thing for Creative Writers. It fosters a nourishing holistic experience whilst providing the discipline and encouragement needed to boost creativity. As a creative writer it is difficult to find such a high standard of retreat which is structured but provides the relaxed environment needed to be as creative as possible. Being with other writers gave me also a safe space to share ideas with like-minded people.”

— Laura Sinclair, Creative Writer from Scotland (2025)

“My stay at the Acorn Writing Retreat at Madeira in Fife was everything I had hoped for and more. The cottage was beautiful and peaceful. It was the little personal touches throughout the retreat that made it feel so special, and the homemade food was absolutely delicious.

What stood out most to me was how inclusive and welcoming everything and everyone was. Whether you came knowing people or on your own, there was a genuine sense that everyone belonged.

I was incredibly grateful to receive a discount through the Acorn Access Fund. It made the experience much more accessible, and I’m so thankful for that support.

I left feeling rested, inspired and already hoping to come back.”

— Louise Larkin, Creative Writer (2026)

“The Acorn Writing Retreat was exactly what my creative process needed: a space of stillness, inspiration, and community nestled in the Scottish landscape. As an international writer, I found the balance between structured focus time and share connection (both with my fellow writers, as well as the nature around) deeply restorative. The setting itself felt almost mythic - mist, lochs, and quiet mornings perfect for long hours of writing. I left with renewed focus, pages I’m proud of, and a sense of creative belonging that’s rare to find.”

— Roxana Gulea, International Non-Academic Writer (2025)

“Participating in Acorn Writing Retreats was a wonderful, inclusive way to delve into my writing while being surrounded and inspired by other writers. It allowed me to focus and have dedicated writing time. This helped me work toward achieving my goal of having my poetry in an exhibition!
Thank you Acorn Writing Retreats!”

— Ree Shapiro, Creative Writer & Poet from the US (2024)

“I cannot recommend Rebecca highly enough. She provided proofreading support during the final, high-pressure stages of my [EdD] viva submission, but what she offered went far beyond proofreading alone. Rebecca gave calm, supportive briefings, helped me stay focused on what mattered each day, and clearly highlighted what was still outstanding. She identified areas needing development, tracked and managed edits meticulously (grammar, spelling, clarity and formatting), ensuring the work was submission-ready.

Throughout the process, Rebecca struck an exceptional balance: she was supportive yet appropriately challenging, kind yet honest, and consistently understanding of the pressures involved. She helped keep me grounded while also sustaining my enthusiasm and confidence in my work. Her insight, organisation and care made a significant difference, and I am genuinely grateful for her support”

— Dr Sue Shippen, York St. John University (2026)

Reviews & Testimonials

Share Your Acorn Experience