About Madingley Hall
This Creative Writing Retreat takes place at Madingley Hall, home to the University of Cambridge Institute of Continuing Education. Built in the 16th century, Madingley Hall is a Grade 1 listed building, and is set in eight acres of landscaped gardens designed in the 18th century by ‘Capability’ Brown. Madingley is just four miles from the centre of Cambridge, and only 60 minutes from London, with excellent links to London airports.
As a Creative Writing Retreat student you will enjoy award-winning cuisine in our elegant Dining Hall and first-rate facilities in an atmospheric and inspiring setting. You can choose to stay at the Hall in comfortable en suite accommodation, or attend as a non-resident.
Retreat delivery and format
All Creative Writing Retreats follow a similar format and include time to write, share your work, take part in group discussions and time to explore Madingley Hall's beautiful gardens.
Accommodation
Accommodation for those wishing to be resident is provided in single, double or twin study bedrooms, with views over the woods, garden and courtyard.
Each room has internet access, a television and a direct-dial telephone, as well as tea- and coffee-making facilities and a safe for valuables. Rooms are all en suite and centrally heated.
A lift gives access to two bedrooms adapted for wheelchair users, and all areas on the ground floor can be reached once inside the building. If you would like us to make any special provision for your stay, please let us know when booking, and we will be happy to discuss your requirements.
Non-student attendance
Please note: accommodation spaces are limited and priority is given to retreat attendees. Non-residential places are available for those who live locally or who prefer to stay elsewhere. If space permits, non-student guests may accompany a course attendee for the retreat, paying the rate below for accommodation and meals.
Fees
Residential fees cover tuition, accommodation and meals from Monday dinner to Wednesday lunch (a total of two breakfasts, two lunches, and two evening meals), as well as morning coffee and afternoon tea during teaching hours.
Non-residential places are available for those who live locally or who prefer to stay elsewhere. Non-residential fees include tuition, lunches, evening meals, morning coffee and afternoon tea during teaching hours. (Non-residents wishing to purchase breakfast may do so on payment of the current rate to Reception before taking their meal.)
If a residential student is sharing a room with someone who is not enrolled on the Weekend Course, guest accommodation and meal prices are subjected to 20% VAT.
Creative Writing Retreat fees
Tuition, lunches, evening meals, tea and coffee £380
Accommodation fees (includes Monday and Tuesday night with breakfast on Tuesday and Wednesday at Madingley Hall)
Single Room (including bed and breakfast): £75 per night Monday/Tuesday£150
Double or Twin Room (including bed and breakfast): Shared with another course attendee - £65 per person, per night Monday/Tuesday £130
Double or Twin Room (including bed and breakfast): Non-course attendee guest sharing with a course attendee - £65 plus VAT per guest, per night Monday/Tuesday£156
Supplementary items
Meals for guests (includes 2 lunches and 2 dinners, plus VAT): Monday to Tuesday £125
Accommodation for carers is provided free of charge, accommodation and meals for guests is subject to VAT.
Any attendee sharing a room with a carer should contact intenq@ice.cam.ac.uk to discuss further details before the booking deadline.
Extra nights
If there is capacity, you can book to stay for the Sunday night after your course at the same weekend bed and breakfast rate. (Please note: dinners are not provided on a Sunday evening.) If you wish to arrive early (before Friday) you will need to make a separate booking with Madingley Hall. (Charges may differ.)
Dietary requirements
If you have any specific dietary requirements or allergies please indicate these when booking.
Bursaries for teachers
Our State School Teacher bursary offers 50% off tuition fees for any teacher with Qualified Teacher Status working in a UK state-funded school or further education institution.
You will be asked to enter the name and contact details of the school when booking.
Getting to Madingley Hall
The Institute of Continuing Education is based at Madingley Hall (CB23 8AQ) in the village of Madingley, four miles west of Cambridge. It is easily accessible from the M11, A14 and A428. Other gateways include Cambridge Main Railway Station and London airports.
If you are arriving in Cambridge by train you can take a taxi to Madingley Hall. Please contact Reception to book a taxi for your return journey.
Parking
Free on-site car parking is available and we have a small number of spaces close to the Hall entrance for Blue Badge holders.
