We are excited to host our very first writers’ retreat on a sprawling 350 acre farm in the Scottish Borders, just 40 minutes drive South of Edinburgh. You’ll be sharing your weekend not just with fellow writers, but a whole menagerie of animals, such as pigs, horses, goats, donkeys and alpacas.
Dates: Thursday 26th February to Monday 2nd March 2026 (4 nights)
Location: Airhouses at Airhouse, Oxton, Near Lauder, Scottish Borders, TD2 6PX, Scotland, UK. Attendees will be put up across a number of houses on the farm, from the main house to a number of Nordic Lodges.
Travel: Airhouses is tucked away in acres of peaceful farmland, but easy to reach by car, and well-connected by train and bus. The Cymera team stands ready to shuttle attendees to the venue from various public transport stops, and we will also arrange for lift shares and such.
What to expect
This long weekend will offer attendees plenty of writing time, with the option for writing sprints and communal writing. In addition, there will be two workshops on developing your craft, opportunities to connect with a mentor and of course plenty of time to hang out with your fellow writers in an informal setting.
The full programme will be announced in December.
Accommodation Options
Attendees have a choice of shared and single occupancy accommodation, with the option to go catered or self-catered. The catered option will include breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Shared Twin Room - Share a twin room with a fellow participant. You will have the opportunity to specify if you have arranged to roomshare with a friend. Price: £550 catered/ £450 self-catered
Shared Double Room - Share a king-size bed with a friend or partner. Booking this room commits you to bringing your own room buddy. Price: £900 catered/ £700 self-catered (price for two attendees sharing)
Double Room for Single Occupancy: Price: £650 catered/ £550 self-catered
The Lodge: A lodge to yourself! This accommodation sleeps two in a super-king-sized bed and comes with its own kitchen and living space. Price: £1100 catered/ £900 self-catered (price for two attendees)
Spaces are limited. To secure yours, a non-refundable deposit of £175 is payable at time of booking. The remainder of the payment is due by 27th December 2025, and a payment link will be sent to each attendee.
If you have any questions or concerns about the retreat, please don’t hesitate to drop us an email on info@cymerafestival.co.uk
