Every play reading begins with a little background information about the play's history - to set the scene - before the group read the full text from start to finish, guided by a Shakespeare expert. You choose whether to take a major role, a minor role, or a non-speaking part and have the opportunity to ask clarifying questions along the way.

Each reading is accompanied by a discussion of key issues and topics - as determined by you and your fellow readers.

You can choose to join our unique workshops either as an active participant or as a silent observer. Whatever role you play, participants are guided through an exploration of key features of Shakespeare's texts in a safe, fun and stimulating environment.

Alternatively, you might prefer to join one of our zoom calls with an expert: conversations in which techniques, experiences and attitudes to Shakespeare are shared freely in conversation, followed by an open question and answer session offering some real gems of insider knowledge from experts in their field.

Our new explorer day challenges you to go out from the retreat centre and explore the local landscape, history and culture at your leisure.

We are located in an area of outstanding natural beauty with abundant walks, landmarks and historic monuments all around us.

As part of the challenge, we'll invite you to return with something related to the week's Shakespeare topic which - if you manage to fulfil the quest - will become the focus of a subsequent lively and enthralling discussion. Past objects have included flowers, photos of the landscape and knick-knacks from the local antiques emporium!

There are 9 bedrooms available for retreat guests and these can be booked for single or double/twin occupancy. Every room has complimentary high-speed wifi, a widescreen TV, bath and shower with unlimited hot water, and a refreshment tray. Superior rooms also boast a stunning view across the Dee Valley. 

Each retreat caters for up to 15 guests who are provided with home-cooked meals, catering for all dietary needs: breakfast, lunch, and a two course dinner with a comprehensive packed lunch for the explorer day. Tea and coffee are provided at every break.

Throughout the retreat you are invited to develop your own response to Shakespeare's plays. If you choose to participate, it could be through drama, storytelling, poetry, art, photography, or any other medium. Space and time is provided each day for you to work on your own or with a partner, and at the end of the retreat we invite anyone who wishes, without obligation, to share their creation with the group. If you do not wish to participate in this aspect of a retreat, you will have free time each day to explore our sizeable library, relax in our lounge, or enjoy our extensive grounds and the surrounding countryside.

On each Unique Shakespeare Retreat, your host shares ground-breaking insights into the effects of candlelight on Shakespeare's drama and leads a unique candlelight reading for all guests.

Completed under the expert supervision of global Shakespeare authority, Professor Tiffany Stern, and early modern music expert, Dr Simon Smith, Nic's Doctoral research focuses on the unique effects of Candlelight on Shakespeare's Late Plays and draws on extensive analysis of vision science, 17th century playhouse structures, candle-making, and Shakespeare's texts as printed in the First Folio. 

​

​