Leaves Reading Retreat Feb 2026 - Expression of interest

It's hard to find the time to just relax with a book. That's exactly what the Leaves Reading Retreat is about - 2 days in the peaceful beauty of Edells in the Kent countryside, to read and discuss with like-minded people, while we take care of everything else.

NB - signing up here is to express an interest in attending, rather than to buy a ticket and and confirm attendance. When there's enough interest to make the retreat viable, we will contact everyone who has expressed an interest with more information. Thanks!

Who will be there?

Women and non-binary people who want to relax, read and meet some lovely new people. Lots of the bedrooms are twin, so do come with a friend and share if you'd like to. Isabelle from Leaves Retreats (and her sous chef) will also be around, to look after everything.

When will it be, and how will I get there?

• 27th February to the 1st of March
• Arrive between 5:30pm and 8:30pm on the Friday evening (or later if needs be), and depart on Sunday afternoon by 5pm
• There are 17 places, all for adults
• Transport is not included, but the nearest train station is Cowden ( a 45 min train from London Bridge station, then a 10 minute walk to the house)

Where will I sleep?

In comfy single beds, in rooms of 1-4 beds – if you’re coming with a friend, we’ll make sure you’re sharing a room with them - otherwise, we'll ensure you're sharing with someone who is as much of an early bird/night owl as you are. There's also one double-room, which can be occupied by two people, or one.

What will I be doing?

• Reading! Reading in the library, reading at the table, reading on the sofa…
• Book discussion
• A countryside walk – we’ll plan a route in the gorgeous scenery nearby – nothing too challenging
• Games evening
• Phone-free hours - hide your phone away and disconnect (we can't make you, but it might help you feel peaceful)
• Wild swimming - strictly optional, but there's a natural swimming spot nearby

Note – everything here is optional, you can take part in as much or as little as you feel like (though I’d definitely recommend some reading). Full itinerary to be shared soon.

I noticed you mentioned reading there…

• Yes, that’s right – reading! You’ll receive a book 6 weeks ahead of the retreat to read and have a think about – it will be a fairly short one, which we'll discuss together
• For the retreat itself, bring anything you feel like reading – fiction, non-fiction, poetry, essays, comics, scrolls, tablets…as you feel

What about food and drink?

• All meals are included, from Friday dinner to Sunday lunch – simple but tasty food, taking dietary requirements into account. A menu will be shared nearer the time
• Cake in the afternoon, and lots of tea

How much will it cost?

Places are £450, including accommodation, food, the book, and a little gift bag I’ll send you home with!