In July 2025, Michelle Penny joined us for our Mentored Retreat: Breaking Ground with your writing with Cynan Jones, read on to find out more about the experience…

As someone who struggles deeply with anxiety, doing things—even things I genuinely love—can be incredibly challenging. Anxiety often fills my mind with vivid images of worst-case scenarios, and the anticipation of attending the short-form fiction retreat at Tŷ Newydd Writing Centre in North Wales, led by the amazing Cynan Jones, was no exception.
Driving up from Swansea, I nearly turned back after a massive panic attack, overwhelmed by thoughts of everything that could possibly go wrong: Would people talk to me? Would my writing be good enough? Could I manage the sensory overload? How would I find sharing a bathroom with strangers? Would I feel like an outsider?
But from the moment I arrived at Tŷ Newydd, I discovered that my fears couldn’t have been more misplaced. All of the staff, especially Leusa, the Artistic Director, and Miriam, the Centre Manager, welcomed me warmly, setting the tone for the supportive and nurturing environment that defined my entire stay.
Every aspect of Tŷ Newydd is designed to soothe and inspire, especially important for someone like me. As someone who lives in a persistent state of anxiety stemming from AuDHD and childhood trauma I deeply value feeling safe and comfortable in my surroundings. The house was beautifully designed, blending historical charm with thoughtful, comforting interiors. I managed to secure the last place on the course and my room was in Nant, the writer’s cottage, which was homely and instantly calmed my nerves.
Throughout the week, I discovered inspiring spaces where creativity seemed to flow effortlessly. The walled garden behind the kitchen became my favourite spot, where I’d write on the swing bench, swallows darting overhead, Jess the chef’s friendly cat quietly keeping me company.
Another perfect haven was the airy room behind the dining area, its doors thrown open to the garden, inviting in fresh air and sunlight. The poetry library offered another calming writing area, with comfy sofas, armchairs, and a curved window seat overlooking the inviting gardens. Taking a blanket out into them to read became my own peaceful ritual.
The retreat itself was everything I was looking for, especially under Cynan Jones’s expert guidance. I have admired Cynan’s work for a long time and knew how great a teacher he was having previously taken an online course with him. But meeting him in person and benefiting directly from his insights was genuinely inspiring. Equally thrilling was the opportunity to meet Anthony Shapland—whose warmth, humility, and generosity I greatly appreciated—and to celebrate the launch of his wonderful new book, ‘A Room Above A Shop’.
I also had the incredible opportunity to sit in on a virtual reading with Megan Barker. I devoured her debut Kit before the retreat in one sitting and loved it for its fusion of prose and poetry into an intimate, bruising portrait of friendship. Megan was generous with her time and answered all of our questions.
Another evening we were joined virtually by Lucy Luck, an agent at C&W Literary Agency. Her advice wasn’t just industry wisdom—it was tailored and warm, encouraging each of us to refine our narratives and trust our own authorial instincts. It was clear she loves both championing writers and teaching them how to navigate the publishing world.
The camaraderie among fellow attendees was something I hadn’t expected. Everyone was incredibly supportive, sharing writing advice, submission opportunities, book recommendations, and encouragement. We’ve even formed a writing group to keep this energy and mutual support alive. It truly felt like I had found my tribe, right in the heart of Wales.
Mealtimes were another highlight; we all sat at a long dining table in a room resembling a great hall but with the intimacy of a cosy dining space. Tony, the chef, prepared fresh, local, delicious meals that felt like home-cooked comfort. His kindness even extended to sending me off with homemade cookies to bring back to my son and husband.
For someone whose AuDHD has always prevented me from fully engaging with opportunities and progressing with my writing, this retreat was transformative. I left Tŷ Newydd feeling energised, inspired, and refocused, profoundly grateful for the experience and the people I met there.
If anxiety or neurodiversity makes you hesitant to attend something similar, know that Tŷ Newydd is truly a safe haven—an environment where your creativity and confidence can flourish, just as mine did.