Just returned from running a one day workshop for writers on writing with place, maps and objects at the fabulous 13th century castle of Sainte-Mere in south west France. The walled castle site with its tranquil gardens was a perfect environment to talk about how we write with a place, and to generate new pieces of fiction writing.

We used a number of objects which were dug up during the castle’s restoration to inspire our writing. This tiny head found under a beaten earth medieval floor was one of the objects. The rest of the week included workshops with novelist, Amanda Hodginson, and with publishers and publishing agents. If you want to enquire about next year’s Writing at the Castle week-long residential course see their homepage.

The next event at the castle is their fantastic chamber music festival  5-8 August.