An Immersive Food Writing Retreat in the rugged wilds of south-west Scotland
11 - 16 May 2026
Join us for a week of community, connection and commensality in Newton Stewart, surrounded by 600 stunning acres of fields, seashore and woodlands on the grounds of an estate that is steeped in history.
This unique event is inspired by nature, food and the written word.
It allows space and time to facilitate knowledge sharing and the exploration of culinary culture, and while this retreat will feature practical writing advice and expert-guided workshops, it will also offer engaging experiences grounded in cooking, nature, heritage, meditation and artistic expression.
Below you will find details on programme and pricing.
The cost of the retreat is built into the accommodation, with meals, workshops and activities included in the price paid for the room.
Spaces are limited.
The Venue
Originally built in 1740 at the command of Lord Alexander Garlies, son of the fifth Earl of Galloway, this captivating estate was designed by renowned architects John Douglas and John Baxter.
Over the years it continued to rise amidst the verdant Scottish countryside, expanding with lodges, leisure drives, and gardens, all enclosed by extensive estate walls and sunken fences.
In 1930 the estate passed into the hands of Margaret, the second Lady Forteviot, widow of John Dewar of the famous Dewar’s White Label whisky dynasty and was used as a hospital for recuperating servicemen during World War II.
Four unique self-catering properties are on the grounds. Two Gate Lodges are set against woodland with sea views, and the Garden Apartment and Hay Loft form part of the original 18th century Stable Courtyard. Each property has been carefully restored to retain original features alongside modern comforts. All four properties have access to a nearby sandy beach, tennis court and swimming pool.
What to expect
A food writing retreat reimagined for those seeking a more authentic experience.
Below you will find an example guide.
We prefer to keep an element of surprise and trust involved in how things unfold.
Days will be structured around workshops, group activities, writing prompts, reflective time and unique shared meals.
This event is a collaboration between:
James Gabriel Martin, Photojournalist and Chef.
Aisling Cullen, Writer, Coach, Yoga Teacher and Facilitator.
Marjorie Lofti, Poet, Writer, Host of Galloway House.
Finn McCreath, Organic Farmer and Ward of Galloway House.
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This retreat will run from lunchtime Tuesday 11th May until midday Sunday 16th, offering ample time to immerse yourself in the Scottish countryside, take part in workshops and have downtime to reflect and explore, or write in reaction to the shared discussions and ideas of the morning.
Fresh breakfast staples will be delivered to you for the morning, setting you up for the day.
This is followed by a morning writing workshop, facilitated and led by your hosts. The discussions and topics will be informed by the group as a whole, but can include colour writing, honing your voice, food as sensory experience, building confidence as a writer and tips on getting your work out into the world.
Lunch will be provided, with the food being very much reflective of Scottish hospitality and seasonality.
Evening meals will be an opportunity to connect further, with an invitation for group interaction and learning. There will also be ample time for individual exploration and integration of the learnings during your free time between meals and workshops.
The schedule offers a blend of creative outlets and inlets from music to food and storytelling, aiming to leave you nourished and inspired.
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Please read the descriptions of accomodation available in the section below. We have included imagery of Galloway House Estate and the lodgings available. There is a link to contact the venue directly to book in.
A 30% non-refundable deposit is required to secure booking. This ensures that we are able to run this small and intimate gathering.
In your booking email please clarify if you have any dietary restrictions or allergies.
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Chosen accommodation.
Breakfasts.
Lunches.
Treats and afternoon refreshments.
Dinners/demos, with wine included.
Writing workshops.
Selected activities.
Accomodation
Cruggleton Lodge | 2 Bed & 1 Bath | Sleeps 6
£2,700 per person for single occupancy room
Georgian lodge situated on a spectacular cliff top with uninterrupted views out to sea.
The lodge contains a careful mix of antiques and modern pieces, with wood floors throughout. Upstairs, there are two beautiful bedrooms, one double and one twin, with spectacular views and a working space between the bedrooms.
From the back door, the beautiful coastal path leads through the estate’s woods to a safe, sandy beach to the north, and along the cliff edge to the ruins of 13th century Cruggleton Castle to the south.
To book please email marjorie@gallowayhouseestate.com
High Lodge | 1 Bed & 1 Bath | Sleeps 4
£2,500 per person for single occupancy room
Beautifully restored 18th century gamekeeper’s cottage with sea views.
The cottage sits on a hill overlooking the sea and the Galloway hills in the distance, with not another house in sight. Inside the cottage, the sitting room has a real fire, great books, a chess table and a decanter of whisky.
The view from its oriel window looks out over green fields and woods, across Rigg Bay to the Galloway hills. The kitchen, with its modern, oil-fired Aga, keeps the whole house warm on even the coldest of days. The bathroom has a free-standing bath and a view of the orchard to the back of the cottage. A romantic double bedroom is tucked under the beams with skylights for stargazing.
To book please email marjorie@gallowayhouseestate.com
The Hay Loft | 1 Bed & 1 Bath | Sleeps 4
£2,300 per person for single occupancy room
Georgian lodge situated on a spectacular cliff top with uninterrupted views out to sea.
The lodge contains a careful mix of antiques and modern pieces, with wood floors throughout. Upstairs, there are two beautiful bedrooms, one double and one twin, with spectacular views and a working space between the bedrooms.
From the back door, the beautiful coastal path leads through the estate’s woods to a safe, sandy beach to the north, and along the cliff edge to the ruins of 13th century Cruggleton Castle to the south.
To book please email marjorie@gallowayhouseestate.com
