The Poetry Business at Arvon, The Hurst, Shropshire
Afternoon of Monday 29th June to Midday Friday 3rd July 2026
Drawing on inspirational contemporary poems, chosen to move your practice on, this is an intensive and enjoyable course of writing and reading with ‘the best poetry teachers in the world’ (The Guardian).
Though the emphasis will be on new writing, the week will include two supportive critical workshops, and optional small group discussions. Before the course there will be a short reading and writing task.
In place of tutor and guest readings, the evenings will feature The World Poetry Festival, where everyone will give a short reading from a favourite poet. This will be alongside other optional activities including The Secret Poem game, short torchlight poetry walks, and sitting around with tea, wine or Baileys.
Cost: £825 payable in three or four instalments. Fully-catered with single-occupancy. Places are limited.
Please let us know at once if you are interested, though the deadline for applications is 29th May.
To Apply:
Application is to The Poetry Business. To apply, please email office@poetrybusiness.co.uk with a short paragraph saying why you’d like to take part, and include a brief biog note together with three poems (published or otherwise). Please include ‘Hurst application’ in the subject of your email.
Ann and Peter are not looking for the ‘best’ or ‘most advanced’ poets but people who would get the most out of the week – and who would enjoy being part of a focused and serious but relaxed group. Please click here to see the provisional schedule, which gives more idea of the shape of the week.
As you may know, the Hurst is a uniquely inspiring place to write, with lovely ensuite rooms in a beautifully restored manor house, set in acres of rolling woodland. More details on the The Hurst on the Arvon website.