creative writing workshops in ireland

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Creative Writing Courses

On the island of Ireland, literature is written into the land

Fiction or Fact – writing in the land of literary scholars

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If you want evidence of a place informing literature, in Ireland you don’t have to look far.

WB Yeats drew inspiration from the beauty of County Sligo (pictured above), James Joyce said he wanted to "give a picture of Dublin so complete that if the city suddenly disappeared from the earth it could be reconstructed out of my book", and Seamus Heaney was influenced by his childhood years growing up in Bellaghy, County Londonderry.

You might wonder if Ireland has any inspirational places left for the rest of us. Is there a corner of the island that we can call our own, where a blank page comes alive with that prose and that poem we’ve been agonising over for months?

We needn’t worry. People such as Irene Graham have us covered.

The Burren, County Clare

Ireland’s literary heritage combined with its idyllic landscapes makes it an ideal location for a creative writing course, according to Irene Graham, founder of The Creative Writer’s Workshop . For Irene, “Raw beauty, comfortable surroundings and good food combined with creative writing workshops allow the writer to draw upon their unconscious, create and write.”

Irene believes “the writing environment, like time, is precious”. And the right backdrop is essential too. Surely, then, the west of Ireland is a must for any writer. Imagine being surrounded by Connemara’s smattering of lakes or the lunar landscape of the Burren, County Clare, while you write that next chapter – pure bliss. But according to Irene, that’s only touching the surface:

“The Creative Writer’s Workshop weaves ancient Ireland and the art of writing into memorable writing vacations. Writers can explore the mythical legends of Inis Mór Island or the Sligo countryside that inspired WB Yeats, and can amble around the rugged landscape of Clare Island – as a part of their writing journey.”

Connemara, County Galway

As one writer, Vivienne Nichols, from the USA found out, Inis Mór, retains the power to bewitch. “Creative writing on the magical, mystical island of Inis Mór was an extraordinary experience,” she notes. “Lyrics, lore and landscape offered refreshment, while Irene Graham’s mastery and generosity helped and inspired beyond expression”

With another two Aran Islands  to Inis Mór ’s east, there’s plenty of inspiration for everyone.

And if dreaded writers’ block does strike, just take a moment and drink in your surroundings. Imagine maybe how JM Synge felt spending his summers on the Aran Islands immersing himself in the local culture, or how Narnia came to life for CS Lewis as he traversed through the Mourne Mountains.

The Mourne Mountains, County Down

Modern-day authors continue to soak up their Irish settings too. The late Maeve Binchy always gave her favourite Dublin locations pseudonyms in her novels; Roddy Doyle’s best work is set in north Dublin while Colm Tóibín included his native County Wexford in countless tales. In her award-winning novel, Solace, Belinda McKeon delicately reminded us not to overlook the centre of the island, with its pastoral romance and connection to the rural elegance that still beats at Ireland’s core.

With genealogy such a popular pastime these days, Irene wonders if “maybe our collective ancestral history is buried in the stones? And if it is, could there be a better place than the west of Ireland to explore it as you dig deep into your creative genes and write engaging stories?”

While many of Ireland’s sights may leave you speechless for some moments, we’re certain you’ll have plenty to write about them for many years to come.

Irene Graham is the founder of The Creative Writer’s Workshop  and The Memoir Writing Club .  She is also the author of The Memoir Writing Workbook.

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Writing Tips Oasis - A website dedicated to helping writers to write and publish books.

17 Top Creative Writing Courses in Ireland

By Hiten Vyas

Are you a budding writer, or an experienced writer who lives on the island of Ireland ?

Do you feel attending a creative writing workshop will help you to develop, or enhance your storytelling prowess?

Continue reading to learn about 17 top creative writing courses in Ireland.

1. Getting Published with Vanessa O’Loughlin

Organized by Dublin’s Big Smoke Writing Factory, this half-day workshop will take place on September 28th and will cover everything you need to know about submitting your book for publication. Facilitator Vanessa O’Loughlin is an author and publishing consultant who works as a literary scout for a number of Irish publishers and agents. Vanessa will be giving advice on how to get your writing noticed, as well as concrete and actionable tips on where to submit your work, how to improve your pitch, and how the publishing business operates.

The workshop fee is €50 per participant. If you are interested in joining, you can learn more about the workshop here . For questions and clarifications, you may contact the Big Smoke Writing Factory team.

2. Creative Writing for Self-Expression and Wellbeing with Simon Forsyth and Clare Hennessy

Also organized by Big Smoke Writing Factory, Creative Writing for Self-Expression and Wellbeing is a one-day experiential workshop facilitated by counsellor Simon Forsyth and author Clare Hennessy. The workshop will include various activities that focus on demystifying creativity, becoming more comfortable about committing words to the page, finding a vocabulary for your emotions, and building the confidence to share your work in a safe environment. The workshop fee is €70 per participant, and no previous writing experience is required to join.

The workshop will take place on September 21st. Interested participants can learn more about the workshop here . If you have any additional questions, you may reach Big Smoke Writing Factory here .

3. Memoir Writing by The Memoir Writing Club

The Memoir Writing Club believes that every story is worth sharing. Whether you plan on submitting your memoir for possible publication or you just want to write down your life’s story to pass down to your children and grandchildren, The Memoir Writing Club’s Memoir Writing Course can help you develop your voice and bring your story to life. This 12-week course is 100% online, and it includes 12 interactive lessons, The Memoir Writing Workbook, live group discussions, and access to additional support materials.

The course is €325 for 12 weeks and can be accessed from your computer or mobile device. The next set of classes starts in September. Learn more about what to expect from the course here . You can also get in touch with The Memoir Writing Club through their online inquiry form .

4. Creative Writing with Jane Madden

This is a beginner’s course in Creative Writing held at Portmarnock Community School in Dublin. The 10-week course has 6 parts, covering the creative process, poetry writing, fiction writing, non-fiction writing, playwriting, and going public. Facilitator Jane Madden is a Dublin-based writer who holds an MFA in Playwriting. She is also a creative writing tutor at Fighting Words and the Centre for the Talented Youth of Ireland. She has written several plays, including The Windstealers and Birdy.

Both newcomers and return students are welcome to join. To learn more about the course, visit the course information page . For questions about enrolling, you can reach Portmarnock Community School here .

5. Fiction Workshop with Sean O’Reilly

Organized by Stinging Fly, this workshop in fiction writing runs from September to March of each year. Over the course of six months, participants will meet once a week at the Irish Writers Centre and share their work for close scrutiny. Workshop spots are very limited and are offered based on the work submitted during application. In addition to the weekly workshops, there will also be specialist talks from established authors and creative thinkers.

Applications will be accepted from July to August. You can learn more about the Fiction Workshop and Stinging Fly’s other workshops here . If you have any questions for the Stinging Fly team, you can reach them here .

6. Creative Writing at Kilroy’s College

For those who are too busy to attend workshops and classroom courses, Kilroy’s College offers a distance learning course in Creative Writing. This course can be completed in 12 months, and students who successfully complete it will receive a diploma in recognition of their achievement. The course focuses on sharpening your writing skills, developing insight into the flow and structure of fiction, editing and polishing fiction drafts, and more. The entire course costs €595.

Interested in enrolling? You can learn more about the course here , or you can order a free creative writing brochure . You can also get in touch with Kilroy’s College via email .

7. Creative Writing with Veronica Casey

This is a 10-week Creative Writing course in Cabinteely, Dublin. The course runs for 10 weeks, and participants can choose between Monday or Tuesday evening classes. As a student-led course, classes are developed at the beginning of the course based on the participants’ interests and the type of writing they wish to accomplish. Writers of all experience levels are welcome to join. The tutor, Veronica Casey, has been teaching writing for more than two decades.

The entire course costs €110, and the next set of classes begins in September. If you would like to enroll, you can book your spot and learn more about the course here . Additional inquiries may be sent here .

8. Listowel Writers’ Week

Established in the 1970s, Listowel Writers’ Week is a 5-day literary festival that brings poets and writers together in the beautiful town of Listowel in County Kerry. The festival features masterclasses, panels, talks, and workshops for writers of every genre and experience level. Some of the experts who have delivered workshops at Listowel Writers’ Week include Michael Harding, Douglas Kennedy, Vona Groarke, and Christine Dwyer Hickey.

The next Listowel Writers’ Week will be on May 27th to May 31st, 2020, and it will be their 50th festival to date. The details aren’t out yet, but you can learn more about the festival here as more information become available. You can also email the Listowel Writers’ Week team should you have any additional questions.

9. Private Writing Classes with Irene Graham

For writers who prefer one-on-one guidance instead of working with a group, renowned Irish author and writing coach Irene Graham offers private writing classes both in person and online. Her private writing classes are ideal for new writers who aren’t sure how to get started, as well as more advanced writers who are struggling to finish their manuscripts. Prices vary based on several factors. If you’re interested, you can learn more about Irene and her classes here .

To inquire about pricing and availability, you can contact Irene through her online contact form . You can also book a complimentary session to gauge if her private classes are a good fit for your needs.

10. Writing Workshops by Munster Literature Centre

Established in 1993, Munster Literature Centre is a non-profit organization in Cork, Ireland. They are dedicated to the celebration of literature, and they organize annual workshops, festivals, readings, and writing competitions. Each year, they hold workshops in fiction and poetry, facilitated by established Irish writers. Last year, their workshops were led by Alannah Hopkin, Patrick Cotter, and Billy O’Callaghan.

Details for their 2019 workshops haven’t been released yet, but you can check the workshops section on their website for announcements. For inquiries, contact Munster Literature Centre via email .

11. Novel Submission Prep with Clare Hennessy

Novel Submission Prep with Clare Hennessy is an online course with four modules. It will take place in September, and they are currently accepting enrollees. The course is designed for authors who are trying to get their manuscripts ready for submission to publishing houses and agents. Facilitator Clare Hennessy is an experienced author and editor, and her course will focus on answering several questions: how do you hook readers from the very beginning of your book, how do you craft the perfect query or cover letter, and where should you submit your manuscript?

Should you be interested in joining this course, you can find more information here .

12. Revising and Editing with Paula McGrath

This is an online course that focuses on revising and editing the first draft of your manuscript. It focuses on the overall structure of your manuscript, symbols and themes, voice, characterization, point of view, and more. The course has five modules that can be completed at your own pace, but most participants complete the course in 8 to 10 weeks. The tutor, Paula McGrath, is a published author with a background in literature.

You can enroll for the course at any time of the year. Interested participants can find more information about enrolling and what to expect from the course here .

13. Writing Courses by the Irish Writers Centre

Founded in 1991, the Irish Writers Centre is Ireland’s national resource center for all things related to Irish literature. They offer various workshops and courses facilitated by renowned writers across different fields, including poetry, fiction, non-fiction, playwriting, short stories, and more. They offer new workshops each season. Details about their upcoming autumn workshops aren’t available yet, but you can check out their current selection here .

To stay updated on all their upcoming workshops and courses, you can sign up for their free newsletter. You can also reach them via email if you have any additional questions.

14. Certificate in Creative Writing for Publication at Maynooth University

Maynooth University offers an undergraduate certificate course in Creative Writing for Publication. It takes place on the Maynooth University campus on Monday evenings. Each class is 3 hours long, and the entire course takes 100 hours to complete. The course has four modules: non-fiction writing, publishing industry awareness, short story writing, and novel writing.

The course is only available to participants over 21 years of age, but prior writing experience is not a requirement. If you are interested in enrolling, you can find more information about the course here . Inquiries may be sent to Kay Loughlin via email . Kay is Senior Executive Assistant for Adult and Community Education.

15. Creative Writing at St. Colmcille’s Community School

St. Colmcille’s Community School offers a Creative Writing course under their Adult Education Program during their spring and autumn terms. The course runs for 8 weeks and costs €90, and classes take place one night a week. They are currently accepting applicants for their autumn term which begins in September. Interested applicants have until September 9 to enroll.

If you are interested, you can read the full course description here , or you can check out their brochure to learn more about all the courses they offer. You can also contact St Colmcille’s via email for inquiries.

16. Creative Writing at Marino College

Marino College offers an evening course in Creative Writing. This course runs for 8 weeks and takes place every Tuesday at 7:00 pm. In this class, students will learn how to shape stories, develop convincing characters, write dialogue, and find their own voice. The course costs €80, and those who are interested can enroll on September 3rd, 9th, or 10th, from 5:00 pm to 8:00 pm. You can also enroll by post. Simply fill out the form included in their night school brochure and follow the mailing instructions.

Marino College is located in Fairview, Dublin. If you have any questions about their courses, feel free to get in touch with them here .

17. Creative Writing at Crescent College

Crescent College in Limerick has an introductory Creative Writing course under their Adult Education Program. The course costs €120 and is designed for aspiring writers who are looking to develop their creativity and confidence in fiction writing, poetry writing, and memoir writing. The course is 8 weeks long and will be held in the evenings. Crescent College is currently accepting enrollees for their autumn term which will commence on September 16th. If you are interested in enrolling, you can fill out the enrollment form included in their autumn brochure , or you can enroll online . The minimum age for all courses is 16, and all courses are non-refundable.

If you have any additional questions and concerns, you can find Crescent College’s contact information and office hours here .

Are there any other creative writing courses in Ireland that should be on this list? Please tell us about them in the comments box below!

Hiten Vyas is the Founder and Managing Editor of Writing Tips Oasis .

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Welcome to the Irish Writers Centre

Irish writers centre 2022-2026 strategy.

A new vision for the future of writers and writing in Ireland

Read more about the Irish Writers Centre

30th Anniversary

Last year, the Irish Writers Centre celebrated its 30th anniversary.

The Irish Writers Centre is a home for writers and literature in Ireland.

As a non-profit organisation and registered charity, our mission is to support, promote and inform writers at each stage of their journey.

The Irish Writers Centre aims to provide relevant information and resources to writers across a number of areas including publishing, marketing, copyright, social welfare and more.

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Helping writers in their professional development through a number of tailored opportunities.

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We programme online and in person events throughout the year, our events include regular Takin’ the Mic nights, and information sessions with practical guidance for writers.

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Submissions for Novel Fair 2025 will open on 1 September 2024. Novel Fair introduces up-and-coming writers to top publishers and literary agents, giving novelists the opportunity to bypass the slush pile, pitch their ideas and place their synopsis and sample chapters directly into the hands of publishers and agents.

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Take a look at the a latest news from the Irish Writers Centre, or view our full archive via the link below.

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18 June, 2024

Our young writer delegates look back on belfast book festival 2024.

17 June, 2024

Announcing the awardees for the lamplight international residency programme 2024, upcoming courses, learning at the irish writers centre.

The Irish Writers Centre offers a range of writing courses for writers at every stage of their career. Listed below are a selection of our upcoming courses, with the full archive available via the link below.

Online |

Saturday’s all write writing community with fiona o’rourke.

Level: Beginner | Emerging |

Date: June 22, 2024

Time: 10.00 am – 12.00 pm

Duration: 6 weeks

Finish Your Novel with Conor Kostick: One-Week Intensive

Date: July 1, 2024

Time: 7.00 pm – 9.00 pm

Duration: 1 week

Digging Up The Bones: Research for Non-Fiction and Memoir and an Introduction to Genealogy with Kevin Connolly

Time: 6.30 pm – 8.30 pm

Duration: 4 weeks

Flash Fiction Point-of-View Deep Dive with Marie Gethins

Level: Beginner |

Date: July 2, 2024

This Modern Life: Poetry with Rachel Long

Date: July 9, 2024

Time: 6.30pm – 8.30pm

Duration: 6 Weeks

Finish Your Novel with Conor Kostick

Date: July 10, 2024

Duration: 10 weeks

Playwriting and the Drama of Real Life with Gavin Kostick

Level: Emerging |

Backbone and Heart: Writing a Short Story with Órfhlaith Foyle

Date: July 16, 2024

Time: 6.30 pm – 8.30 pm

Beginners’ Fiction with Tanya Farrelly

In-Person |

Fragmenting experiences, fragmented structures with roe mcdermott.

Date: August 7, 2024

The Fundamentals of Fiction with William Ryan

Date: August 13, 2024

Time: 6.00pm – 8.30pm

Duration: 4 Weeks

Write a Short Story in Six Weeks with June Caldwell

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Here, in 19 Parnell Square, a genuine community has grown and flourished. It, like all truly functioning communities, has had to craft its own ethic of solidarity, one that is based on equality, full participation and genuine respect for the many differing voices that makes it up as a whole. It is for that reason that I am very proud to be Patron of the Irish Writers Centre.

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CREATIVE WRITING COURSES

Next round of courses begin 2nd week of june, no more putting it off, take the plunge and start today., learn creative writing at beginner, intermediate and advanced level at our creative studio in the heart of dublin city - call 085 2341829 to find out more., creative writing courses for you, we understand creative writing is difficult. we understand writers need guidelines, support and most importantly, inspiration. we deliver courses that are both enjoyable and rigourous, providing the skills necessary for you to develop and progress as a writer., production focussed.

Our courses facilitate the creation of one or several pieces of fiction over a 10 week period

1-on-1 coaching

Benefit from direct tutor access with 1-on-1 coaching sessions as a part of the course

How we do it: our approach for your writing success

We will give you the tools and structure you need to tell stories. Our classes are designed around making progress and finishing a piece of work. This approach, and the detailed feedback received over the ten-week period, means you'll see your story evolve steadily from idea to print.

Inspiring material

Learn from the best by absorbing insights from the best the world of fiction has to offer

Creative environment

Share, create and discuss in a beautiful safe environment steeped in literary history

"Get it down. Take chances. It may be bad, but it's the only way you can do anything really good. "

William Faulkner

Why join us at Creative Writing Courses?

We provide a safe, convivial environment to learn and develop the craft of writing. We aim to stimulate and inspire with interesting, thought-provoking classes and material, and we promise to support you in finding your own unique voice.

Classes are open to all who are interested in writing well, whether experienced or beginner, and you will come away from each 10-week course with process, inspiration and an addition to your own body of work.

READY TO START?

Find our more about our courses to start your creative writing journey, make the craft of literature your own & develop your voice.

SCIENCE FICTION

Seek out new brave worlds & explore your muse, our location, find out about the rich literary heritage of our vibrant d2 location, course cost, €295 - to cover all courses, 1-to-1 coaching and course materials.

Ready to start your creative writing journey today?

Creative writing courses catering for all levels, from experienced to beginner, held at a premium location at the heart of Dublin City

3 Clare Street, Dublin 2 Ireland

[email protected]

Fiction Writing Retreats | Workshops

Fiction Writing Retreats | Workshops Fiction & Autobiographical Fiction Writing Retreat

If you want to write a publishable novel this is the workshop to find out how. You will return home invigorated, with a deep understanding and knowledge of story, motivated to complete your book.

Irene’s retreats are renowned by international writers, not only for her innovative techniques that show you how to focus, develop, create and write your stories… but for weaving inspiration and creativity into your writing journey by providing exceptional locations to facilitate the creative process.

Engage with the beauty of the West Cork countryside. Walk the golden sandy beaches on the doorstep of your luxurious 4 star accommodation. Glow from relaxing in the heated seawater jet filled swimming pool. Explore the nooks and crannies in the nearby small country town of Clonakilty. Immerse your self in the tranquil and specular views Inchydoney has to offer. Sleep in silence. Connect to story. Feed your imagination.

Come to Inchydoney and write! Delve deep into an authentic Irish experience along the Wild Atlantic Way. Walk the ancient path with Irene, an Irish native… she’s show you the way.

Gourmet food, luxurious private room with balcony and sea views over the Atlantic Ocean.  A memorable journey is assured.

Using right-brain/left brain learning techniques our aim is to trigger and deepen imaginative concepts, tap into life experiences, strengthen writing voice, shape characters, form setting, frame theme, create structure – and help develop your story so that it hops off the page!

Explore in detail the depths of story creation – understand how to weave your story into a cohesive whole, find your writing voice and develop a structure that works.

Learn the art of writing Autobiographical Fiction… a very powerful form of writing. What it is, and how your personal life experiences can influence and deepen your writing.

You will be encouraged to explore story in a genre of your choice, be it Literary Fiction, Science Fiction/Fantasy, Crime, Romance, Children’s, Popular Fiction, Dystopian…or to discover and find your genre as you progress through the workshop.

The workshop is open to new, emerging and established writers to:

• create a short story
• develop a novel
• work on a current manuscript

You receive personal feedback on your story throughout the workshop.

Limited to 9 Participants.

Fiction & Autobiographical Fiction Writing Retreat Inchydoney Island, Clonakilty, Co. Cork, Ireland Details | Apply

How it Works

7-Day Retreat to immerse your brain in creativity while you unwind and relax in luxury and great company.

Limited to 9 participants.

The retreat unfolds on Tues 3 Sept 2024 in Inchydoney Island Lodge & Spa. Your week is interspersed with daily writing workshops, private time to write, time to walk the golden sandy beaches or regenerate your mind, body and soul in *Ireland’s Leading Spa.  Luxurious 4 Star Accommodation and fine dining is assured. Your balcony overlooks a golden sandy beach with invigorating sounds of lapping tides. You won’t want to leave!

The nearby small colourful country town of Clonakilty is filled with Irish pubs, music events, great restaurants, and the local farmers market on Fridays, all of which we will visit.

*The heated Seawater Therapy Pool, pumped daily from the Atlantic Ocean, provides a range of underwater jets plus bubble seats so you get a complete workout underwater!

Retreat includes: *Fiction & Autobiographical Fiction Writing Workshop with Irene Graham *Private Bedroom + Bathroom, luxury 4 Star accommodation *Full or Continental Breakfast each morning in hotel main Dining Room *Tea/Coffee/Milk/Fruit Bowl in room upon arrival *Full Access to: Seawater Therapy Pool/Jacuzzi/Steam Room/Spa *2 x Lunches *1 x Dinner *Writing Journal

Food is of the highest standard: fresh, local, and includes organic dining when possible.

Only 9 lucky writers will experience this writing journey… in incredible surroundings and four-star luxury.

Fee: €2,445 euro

Fee includes shared (x2 bed / x2 bath) apartment, or private apartment option for additional fee. Further details upon application.

Chat with Irene G. If you would like a private chat with Irene about your Novel and how her Fiction Retreat will help you, complete the Apply Form – tick the Writing Chat Box – and we will set up a meeting.

Workshop Code: W216

• Memoir Writing Retreat
• Memoir Writing Masterclass 6-month
• Memoir Writing Course Online 16-week

Explore our Memoir Writing Course Online 12-week   |   Memoir Writing Masterclass   |   Private Writing Classes

Photo Story Book by Irene Graham I Am A Hare! Hanna and The Hop Family

WRITIN G RETREAT

• Jul 27, 2023

2024 Writing Retreats Mark Our Tenth Anniversary

When we first moved to Donegal, little did we know we would establish international creative writing retreats, but so enchanted were we with the natural beauty and energy of the place, that’s exactly what we did.

It was a life-changing decision, one that has brought us much joy and satisfaction, not just in helping support you as writers re-ignite your unique voice, but immersing you in the rich rainbow of arts, culture and history of Ireland’s most northerly region.

We then decided to expand our reach beyond Ireland. To the South of France. And to Paris where this autumn we will host what some call our ‘ Literary Legends Retreat. ’ This might be your last chance to experience the City of Light with us so why not treat yourself in October to a memorable week. We think you deserve it. Don’t you?.

And now we’re on the verge of celebrating our 10th birthday next year. And we really want you to join us.

To mark the occasion, our retreats will offer extra special treats, including commemorative gifts for all participants.

If interested to celebrate with us, please book your place early as we can only take a maximum number of participants at each retreat. Having had to turn several people down this year due to full capacity, we do not want to disappoint anyone, especially on our tenth birthday.

Please find our list of writing retreats for 2024 with details on each.

Name - south of france writing retreat.

WHEN - March 25-31, 2024

WHERE - Majestic Pyrénées Orientales in the rolling wine country of French Catalonia. At the foot of Canigou, the sacred mountain of the Catalans. Accommodation in single, ensuite rooms with breakfast at the attractive family-owned, boutique hotel Villa Lafabregue .

WHAT - A blend of practical workshops on both fiction and non-fiction writing including such subjects as character development, memoir writing and dialogue, with hands-on story critiques (including participants’ works-in-progress), plus bespoke cultural excursions, live entertainment and authentic experiences of local wines and foods.

This article recalls what participants enjoyed in previous such retreats: Dragons, Sea Adventures and A Centuries-Old Mystery

NAME - Travel Writing Retreat

WHEN - May 20-26, 2024

WHERE - Donegal, the most northerly place in Ireland, on the scenic ‘Wild Atlantic Way.’ Known as the ‘Forgotten Land,’ this beautiful coastal region is a center of traditional Irish music, ancient historic sites, thatched cottages, castles and, most important of all, faeries and inspiring Celtic legends.

WHAT - Practical workshops on the art of travel writing plus a special focus on travel photography, a combination often required by magazine, newspaper and travel website editors. The course also includes excursions to places of special interest, both historical and cultural and invited speakers in diverse tourism sectors. This course is suitable for those who love travel and enjoy writing accounts of their adventures for family and friends; those who already host their own travel blog and want to improve its quality and reach; those interested in launching their own travel blogs; and those who would like to write articles for travel outlets or expand their existing portfolio.

This course will be hosted by Sean and Columbia Hillen.

Sean has worked in the field of international journalism for the last 40 years, ten of which have been in the travel sector. You can read some of Sean’s articles - illustrated by Columbia's photographs - on World Itineraries and JustLuxe . Sean’s travel articles have also appeared in such diverse publications as The Times of London, The Irish Times in Dublin and Time magazine, New York.

Columbia will host workshops on travel photography. Her work has featured in more than 500 articles highlighting unique details of hotels, restaurants, specific city and regional tourism destinations and entertainment events worldwide.

Collectively, Sean and Columbia’s travel experiences encompass more than 50 different countries.

This article recalls what participants enjoyed in previous such retreats: "My experience at Ireland Writing Retreat was life-altering…”

NAME - Summer Writing Retreat

WHEN - June 17-23, 2024

WHERE - Donegal, the most northerly region of Ireland, on the scenic ‘Wild Atlantic Way.’ Known as the ‘Forgotten Land,’ this beautiful coastal region is a center of traditional Irish music, ancient historic sites, thatched cottages, castles and, most important of all, faeries and Celtic legends.

WHAT - A week-long, creative writing holiday with a difference – scenic walks, fascinating talks and daily practical writing and editing workshops – all in a land that time forgot, in probably the most beautiful part of Ireland of, an awe-inspiring landscape of islands, castles and thatched cottages. Plus lively, traditional Irish music performances; tuition in the Gaelic language and Irish ceildhe dancing lessons.

This article recalls what participants enjoyed in previous such retreats: Chocolates, Irish Music, A Castle And A Thatched Cottage Make Donegal Retreat A Memorable One

NAME - Autumn Writing Retreat

WHEN - September 23-29, 2024

This article recalls what participants enjoyed in previous such retreats: Success in Donegal, Now Paris Here We Come

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Intermediate Course

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Creative Writing Course for Children (7-12)

Short Story Writing Course

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Creative writing workshops events in Dublin, Ireland

Creative Writing with Gill Perdue

Tuesday at 6:30 PM

Ballyroan Library

Creative Poetry Workshop

Sat, Jul 6, 10:00 AM

Ardgillan Castle and Demesne

Poetry Portraits - adult workshop

Sat, Sep 14, 10:30 AM

Hugh Lane Gallery

Ballyroan Teen Creative Writing Club

Tue, Jul 2, 5:00 PM

Writing Class

Sat, Aug 17, 2:00 PM

Songwriting Workshop

Saturday at 3:30 PM

St. Andrew's Community Centre

CREATIVE HANDBUILDING WORKSHOP (2 HOURS)

Saturday at 11:00 AM + 3 more

Arran Street East School of Pottery

The Great Big Giant Short Story Experiment -Sold Out (Waiting List Only)

Saturday at 10:30 AM

The Studio, Level 1, dlr LexIcon

Proposal Writing 1 Day Training in Bray

Mon, Jul 1, 9:00 AM + 5 more

For venue details reach us at [email protected]

Creative Problem Solving and Decision Making 2 Days Training in Bray

Thu, Jul 4, 9:00 AM + 5 more

Exploring Distortions in Nature through Collage: dlr LexIcon Gallery

Sat, Jun 29, 11:00 AM

Project Room, Level 3 (beside Gallery) : dlr LexIcon Gallery

ISAYiT! Summer Camp 2024

Mon, Jul 8, 10:00 AM

Mindful Stitching Workshop

Tomorrow at 6:30 PM

Fondita Mestiza

Sketching Workshop for Children

Sat, Jul 6, 3:00 PM

Castleknock Community Centre

Mom & Me! Parent and Child Day Retreat

Sun, Jul 21, 10:00 AM + 1 more

The Calm Rooms

Business Writing 1 Day Training in Drogheda

Mon, Jul 8, 9:00 AM + 5 more

Summer Botanicals: Watercolours & Illustration Workshop - An Introduction

Sat, Jul 6, 10:30 AM

Festina Lente

Create Your Own Vulva Workshop (inc tea+coffee)

Thu, Jun 27, 6:00 PM

This Must Be The Place

Writers' Café atop a hill

Wed, Jun 26, 10:00 AM + 83 more

A bit of heaven wellness center

Business Writing 1 Day Training in Dublin

Tuesday at 9:00 AM + 6 more

For venue details reach us at: [email protected]

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Creative Writing courses in Ireland

Creative writing.

This Creative Writing course is an introductory programme for aspiring writers who wish to develop skills, confidence and creativity in fiction, poetry or memoir writing through guided group and individual work.  

  Request Brochure

Creative writing 1 on 1 mentorship.

Would you like high-level personalised attention to your writing journey? Meet Martin or Associate each week for a 60 minute 1-1 session in Zoom or In-Person at a mutually convenient time and discuss your progress, your weekly submission and your options in publish or producing. Includes weekly written feedback, a final project submission of 5,000…

Release your inner creative talent! We will look at various forms of writing including articles, essays, stories, and will cover topics such as dialogue, narrative, character development, research, etc. The techniques under discussion will be practised and writers will receive constructive comments from the class.

This 6-week course is available in September and in January Suitable for people of all levels. Each course is tailored to the participants on the course. Peer reviews are encouraged throughout, and advice on how to improve your writing skills will be given. Tutor: Veronica Casey.

Creative Writing 5N4765 (QQI Level 5)

This QQI Level 5 Creative Writing course is designed to give students an opportunity to develop their creative voice through writing. It aims to give students an understanding of the process of writing, key aspects of writing fiction, as well as the possibility of getting work published. Course documentation for this journalism course is detailed, comprehensive…

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Creative Writing (8 week course)

Creative Writing is a 8-week course in which I go through the dos and don’ts of fiction/non-fiction writing and how a budding writer can make their work more attractive to publishers and editors. Each week there are a few tips on how to approach say describing scenes/situations or creating storylines. Typically, each week of the…

A practical workshop based programme designed to help people approach creative writing in a way that they can feel confident unlocking their own personal stories and getting them down on the page. This process uses a combination of carefully guided steps and peer to peer motivation, all within a fun and encouraging atmosphere.  8 week…

Creative Writing at Old Bawn

Creative Writing This Creative Writing course is suitable for those who wish to undertake a practice-based study of creative writing.  It provides an opportunity to fully immerse in creative practice & to produce a short collection of work.  Students will be encouraged to try out different forms & genres such as fiction, poetry and creative…

Creative Writing (Beginners)

  This Course is not running for the Spring Term of February 2024   Practise the craft of writing and learn how to create memorable characters, devise a gripping plot, write believable dialogue, adjust the pace and focus of your story. Classes in a relaxed, friendly environment with an experienced tutor.

Creative Writing: Commercial Novels

Creative Writing: Commercial Novels This specialist course covers all genre novels that fit into a commercial category. It is designed to help writers who are writing for a wide audience. We will look at the differences between a draft and a polished commercial novel. We will explore the vital elements that convince agents and publishers that your manuscript is…

Creative Writing course

Week 1: Outline of the course:   This is for hobby writers, so it’s going to be fairly relaxed and calm, and will give an introduction to writing fiction.   Week 2: Openings:   How to begin your story so that the readers are brought straight into the action and are committed to it.  …

CREATIVE WRITING – Getting Started, Keeping Going Course Description: It’s often hard to begin writing, even if you really want to and it’s also hard to keep going, even if you really want to! Finding time & space, building self-belief & writing habits, all need practice and encouragement. This course offers you strategies to get…

Creative Writing course: Introduction

This Creative Writing course is aimed at anyone who enjoys writing and who wishes to develop skills and confidence in creativity whether in the area of fiction, poetry or memoir. Creativity and idea-generating skills will be built through a mixture of group and individ

Creative Writing Course (Thursday Morning class)

Creative Writing Course. Tutor:  Ms Tanya Farrelly Tanya Farrelly is the author of four books. Her debut short fiction collection When Black Dogs Sing (Arlen House, 2016) was longlisted for the Edge Hill Short Story Prize and named winner of the Kate O’ Brien Award 2017. Two novels: The Girl Behind the Lens and When…

Creative Writing - ELEMENTS OF FICTION

This twelve-week course is designed for new and aspiring writers seeking inspiration and guidance on writing fiction. The course will provide writing exercises and advice on techniques and look at the different elements involved in creating stories, from character to plot, description and voice. Providing gentle feedback, it will give budding writers the chance to…

Creative Writing - ELEMENTS OF FICTION (Mondays)

CREATIVE WRITING: ELEMENTS OF FICTION Starting on Monday April 15th, we are offering an exciting new course, Elements of Fiction, which covers everything you need to know about writing fiction, as well as giving you the chance to see your work in print. This twelve-week course is designed for new and aspiring writers seeking inspiration and…

Creative Writing Evening Class

Tanya Farrelly is the author of four books. Her debut short fiction collection When Black Dogs Sing (Arlen House, 2016) was longlisted for the Edge Hill Short Story Prize and named winner of the Kate O’ Brien Award 2017. Two novels: The Girl Behind the Lens and When Your Eyes Close were published by Harper…

Creative Writing for Digital Media

Creative Writing for Digital Media This course is designed for anyone with an interest in creative writing and storytelling.  Students will explore various aspects of writing creatively and will be facilitated in developing both written and digital content for online platforms. The course will focus on developing writing skills for both fiction and scripts as…

Creative Writing: Historical Writing

12.00-1.00pm every Thursday   Would you like to transport reader or viewers into the past? Do you like the idea of writing within a famous period in history? With this specialist course, you can learn powerful research techniques and explore drafting a creative project within a rigid framework of events. Opens to historical fiction writers and also those compiling…

Creative Writing: Intermediate

8.00-10.00pm every Thursday CREATIVE WRITING: INTERMEDIATE Would you like to develop your writing craft and develop your work for publication? Have you been working on a writing project for a while and want to move onto the next level? Explore genres such as comedy, fantasy, memoir and radio writing in this innovative new course for…

Creative Writing: Introduction - CLAREMORRIS

Creative Writing: Single Project – CLAREMORRIS This course is designed for those writers who wish to spend a sustained period of time working on a single project of any length. Writers may have a formed idea to bring to the course which indicates its proposed overall structure and content. Part of the project might be…

Creative Writing: Introduction - DUN LAOGHAIRE

CREATIVE WRITING: DUN LAOGHAIRE Join us for an exciting 8 week course in Dun Laoghaire this Spring. Open to all levels of writer. We will explore different key elements of writing craft and you can develop your writing on a current project or start something new. You can also submit a piece for consideration by…

Creative Writing: Introduction -- MULLINGAR

Creative Writing: Introduction — MULLINGAR with Dr Simon Thomas If you have ever wanted to write, you will enjoy this new course starting in Mullingar. In the course, we will cover starting to write, editing, publishing your writing. We will also explore various genres including Realism, Crime, Scifi, Horror and Relationships. Participants in the course will also…

Creative Writing: Introduction — MULLINGAR with Martin / Associate Lecturer If you have ever wanted to write, you will enjoy this new course starting in Mullingar. In the course, we will cover starting to write, editing, publishing your writing. We will also explore various genres including Realism, Crime, Scifi, Horror and Relationships. Participants in the course will…

Creative Writing: Introduction - REMOTE

CREATIVE WRITING: INTRODUCTION Have you ever wanted to write short stories or even try a novel? Have you dreamed of seeing your play on stage, your film on screen, or even stunning audiences with your poetry? Join a wonderful online creative writing course enjoyed by hundreds of writers since 2020. The course introduces participants to…

Creative Writing (Junior) - Diploma course for 8-14 year old children

For FREE course brochure please visit www.kilroyscollege.ie/free_brochure This course has been specially developed to awaken the imaginative powers of young people between the ages of eight and fourteen. It improves the writing skills and helps raise the standards of a child’s composition. Course Contents Unit 1: Words Unit 2: Writing Unit 3: The Short Story…

Creative Writing (Monday Evenings)

Creative Writing Free your imagination. Train your powers of observation. Learn how to shape stories and develop convincing characters. Explore experience and memory. Use metaphor and suggestion. Write dialogue and find your own writing voice. Produce your own work and if you choose, bring it into class for reading and comment. For those who wish…

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Creative Ireland

Creative communities, creative writing courses for adults.

Dates 1st Dec 2020 to 28th Jan 2021

Age Range All ages

Venue Online

Type Workshop

Calling all budding writers! dlr Libraries will be hosting online Creative Writing courses for beginners (adults) with Leo Cullen in December 2020 and Jan 2021.   Leo Cullen is a poet, playwright, novelist and short fiction writer. His work has been published widely and he is well-known to library users through his writing workshops. Leo’s publications include the novel  Let’s Twist Again   and a collection of short stories  Clocking 90 on the Road to Cloughjordan .  His work has appeared in the  Sunday Independent  as well as in numerous literary magazines and anthologies in Ireland, the UK, and Canada.  Course 1:

Tuesdays 1st & 15th December, 5th,12th,19th & 26th January: 2.30pm - 4.00pm via Zoom

Thursdays 3rd & 17th December, 7th, 14th, 21st & 28th January: 2.30pm - 4.00pm via Zoom

Max of 10 participants per course.

More information to follow here    

Please note that the details of events listed above are provided by the relevant Local Authorities.

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Puppets in july, féile na sléibhe - celebration of cultural heritage of dublin mountains, senior’s crafts showcase 2024.

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The Creative Writing Academy of Ireland is accredited by the International Approval and Registration Centre (IARC) who ensure the quality standards relating to course content, delivery, assessment and administration are maintained.

All courses are part-time and fully accredited.

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From the very beginning of your course your tutors will be with you every step of the way to provide support, guidance and encouragement. Tutors provide constructive feedback on your work, based on their own experience in the industry.

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