Since the pandemic enjoying the natural world around us has seemed more important than ever. The demand for books on nature writing has increased significantly, whether from an historical approach to landscape, an exploration of wildlife, or how nature connects with our wellbeing. Writing about nature can also suffuse fictional works, adding depth and context.

This one day workshop with award-winning writer Nicola Chester will give you the confidence to write about nature whether it be through fiction, poetry or factual writing.  We’ll explore the meaning of nature writing and, through a mixture of exercises and fieldcraft techniques out in the countryside, learn how to better understand the world around us, our place in it, and and express that deeper connection through our writing.

All you need is a good basic level of written English and a desire to improve your creative writing!  If you're already working on a project, bring it along as you may wish to use it as a basis for some of the class exercises. Expect a friendly and supportive atmosphere.

Nicola Chester is an award-winning, pioneer of the new era of nature writing, and the RSPB's longest running female columnist. She features in several anthologies, and is a Country Diarist for The Guardian. Her memoir On Gallows Down:  Place Protest & Belonging was published in 2020 by Chelsea green Publishing and is shortlisted for the Richard Jefferies Award. For Nicola, nature writing is an act of resistance, connection, celebration, inclusivity, joy and wonderment. She lives in the heart of the North Wessex Downs, below the highest hill in Southern England. Follow Nicola on Twitter @nicolawriting

The venue for Words in the Wild is the Westridge Studio - an arts and wellbeing centre based in Highclere, Hampshire, just 7 miles from Newbury.  The day will run from 11am to 4pm and include a gentle walk (please bring a packed lunch to enjoy on the walk). Refreshments will be provided throughout the day. Car parking is available at the venue. For those wishing to explore the area there are many walks a short drive away to viewpoints overlooking the castle (where Downton Abbey was filmed) and also at Watership Down, Greenham Common and Gallows Down (Combe Gibbet). 

The cost of this event is £55 per person (£45 for young writers aged 18-25). The day will include a short walk (whatever the weather!). Directions will be sent upon booking. There are only 12 places available so book soon to avoid disappointment.