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Autumn Crime Writing Retreat

Friday 9th October - Monday 12th October 2026

At Bude and Widemouth Bay — limited to 14 spaces

Step into the world of crime fiction with New York Times and Sunday Times bestselling author Cara Hunter. Set against the inspiring backdrop of Cornwall, this immersive weekend experience invites you to discover the secrets behind gripping storytelling — and write your own crime short story from start to finish.

This relaxed, creative retreat blends practical teaching with supportive workshops and time to write. Mornings focus on learning the craft, while afternoons provide dedicated writing sessions with individual guidance from Cara. Evenings offer opportunities to share ideas, discuss the publishing world, and connect with fellow writers in a welcoming environment.

Expect inspiration, encouragement and plenty of “aha” moments — along with the satisfaction of completing your own crime story in just one weekend.

Across the weekend, Cara will guide you through the building blocks of compelling crime fiction: character, tension, clues, misdirection and unforgettable twists. Whether you’re a complete beginner or an aspiring novelist, you’ll leave with new skills, fresh confidence and a finished piece of writing to be proud of.

Key Details

  • Arrival: Friday afternoon (check-in time TBC)
  • Welcome session: Introduction and meeting Cara
  • Saturday: Full day of craft sessions, writing time and feedback
  • Sunday: Further writing sessions and group sharing in the evening
  • Departure: Monday morning

What you’ll learn

  • How to create compelling crime concepts
  • Building believable characters and suspects
  • Plotting tension, clues and red herrings
  • Writing authentic dialogue and pacing scenes
  • Crafting a satisfying twist ending
  • Editing and refining your work

By the end of the weekend, you’ll have completed a short crime story and gained tools you can apply to future writing projects.

Who this experience is for

This weekend is open to everyone — from complete beginners curious about writing through to experienced writers wanting to explore crime fiction or develop their skills further. No prior writing experience is required; just curiosity, imagination and enthusiasm.

Your host: Cara Hunter

Cara Hunter is the author of the bestselling DI Adam Fawley crime series and the standalone thriller Murder in the Family. Known for her twist-driven plots and innovative storytelling style, she brings both publishing insight and practical expertise to her teaching.

Accommodation & location

You’ll be staying in You, Me & the Sea in Bude, or in  West Haven at Widmouth Bay, just outside Bude. Both are Edwardian seaside villas, recently restored to glory. West Haven will be the hub for our retreat — it was one of the first two retreat to have been built in this location, reputedly by a wealthy local landowner. The peaceful surroundings provide the perfect creative escape — somewhere to think, write, recharge, and share learning.

Food

This is a fully catered weekend, with delicious vegetarian meals cooked by our retreat chef — colourful, nourishing, seasonal dishes that support your creativity.

The cost

Price £575 per person, and includes:

  • Accommodation Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights.
  • Meet Cara Hunter on Friday evening
  • Writing workshops with Cara
  • One to one feedback and guidance
  • This is a fully catered retreat.

Leave with

  • Your own completed crime short story
  • Practical writing tools and techniques
  • Personal feedback from a bestselling author
  • Renewed creative confidence
  • Inspiration to continue your writing journey
Reserve your space

Meet your host

Cara Hunter
New York Times and Sunday Times bestselling author Cara Hunter is the acclaimed creator of the DI Adam Fawley crime series, set in Oxford. Known for immersive, twist-driven plots and innovative storytelling, her novels blend police procedural detail with psychological suspense. Hunter’s debut, Close to Home, introduced readers to a gripping investigative style that has since captivated audiences worldwide, with titles translated into numerous languages and adapted for screen development.