Take your science fiction writing into a new dimension at this weekend devoted to building new worlds and new works of art. Join New Scientist Culture Editor Alison Flood, and former New Scientist Editor Emily Wilson who is now an author, for an immersive writing weekend. Explore the world of science fiction and learn how to craft your own captivating sci-fi tales.

Join an wonderful line-up of science fiction minds for an unforgettable weekend of creativity, inspiration, and world-building. Hosted by New Scientist’s comment and culture editor, Alison Flood, alongside author and former New Scientist editor, Emily H. Wilson. They will be joined by two highly regarded sci-fi authors - Adam Roberts and Katie Khan who will share their secrets behind their bestselling novels, reveal how they craft compelling speculative worlds, and spark your imagination through talks, discussions, and practical advice.

Over the weekend, enjoy a series of workshops and informative talks where you will learn about the creative processes behind producing a novel. Topics will include:

Insight into how top science fiction authors write their novels
How to craft compelling science fiction stories
Using science in science fiction
Five golden rules to writing science fiction

To ensure everyone gets the most out of the weekend, you will be divided into focused groups based on where they are in their writing journey - whether you're just beginning to put pen to paper or already deep into drafting your next sci-fi epic. These tailored sessions will give you the chance to dive into the craft with targeted support, constructive feedback, and expert guidance from Adam, Katie, Alison, and Emily. It’s a unique opportunity to grow your skills, gain fresh perspectives, and supercharge your storytelling no matter where you are on your creative path.

You’ll stay at the charming Grade II-listed De Vere Cranage Estate, an inspiring setting that blends historic elegance with peaceful surroundings—perfect for sparking creativity. Surrounded by a friendly group of fellow sci-fi enthusiasts, you’ll find the ideal environment to focus, write, and immerse yourself in your storytelling. This experience is ideal for solo guests and there is no single room supplement if you are a solo traveller.

Whether you're an aspiring writer or a lifelong sci-fi fan, this is your chance to dive deep into the art of great science fiction with the genre’s finest. So, unleash your imagination and join us for an unforgettable expedition into the future of fiction!

DAY 1: INTRODUCTION, KEYNOTE TALK AND LET THE WRITING BEGIN

Check in to De Vere Crange Estate any time from 2pm.

At 5pm meet the New Scientist’s Emily and Alison., as well as Adam and Katie for a welcome drink in the bar.

From here, there will be a introductory talk from Alison and Emily, detailing how this tailor-made writing weekend will work and learning about some of the fun writing tasks you will be set.

Afterwards, listen to a keynote talk from renowned author Adam Roberts, who will speak on his career and share his insights on writing science fiction. Adam will also answer questions from the audience after his talk.

This will be followed by dinner where you can hang out with Adam, Katie and New Scientist’s Emily and Alison. To round off the first evening of this event, there will be a science-fiction quiz back in the bar. Test your knowledge of this best of all fiction genres!

DAY 2: WORKSHOPS AND TALKS

Breakfast is available from 7am.

Get ready to immerse yourself in writing with the first workshop, 'How to craft compelling science fiction stories', which will begin at 9am and run until around 11:30am. The workshop begins with a talk from our two guest authors, who will discuss their approaches. There will be a short tea and coffee break.

Continue with a panel discussion between Emily, Katie, Alison, and Adam followed by Lunch.

Afterwards, enjoy a talk from Katie who will cover a couple of topics pertinent to science fiction writing.

Following this, Emily and Alison will host an informal panel discussion focusing on 'Using science in science fiction', where Adam and Katie will discuss how they does this.

Dinner will take place in a salon format, where each table is hosted and discussion (science-fiction related, of course) is led by a host, with the opportunity for everyone to contribute should they wish to. You will be asked to come prepared with your favourite science fiction novel.

There will be some time in the evening for you to work on your writing.

DAY 3: WORKSHOPS AND TALKS AND ALL YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED

Breakfast is available from 7am.

Today's first talk will begin at 9:30am with a talk from Alison and Emily covering 'The five golden rules of science fiction writing'. After this, split into two groups, each accompanied by one of our authors or hosts.

Afterwards, you will be split into smaller groups and given todays new task allowing you to hone your writing skills a little more.

There will be a short break followed by a talk by Alison and Emily.

After an early lunch, the weekend will finish with a Q&A panel session hosted by Alison and Emily. It is here you have the opportunity to discuss any and all of your questions with the panelists. After closing comments, the weekend will aim to finish around 3pm.

Note: This weekend is aimed at those on the beginning of their science fiction writing journey, as well as those further down the road who are looking to be reinvigorated and reinspired, as well as to connect with a new cohort of fellow writers.

Full details at www.newscientist.com/tours/science-fiction-writing/

DE VERE HOTEL CRANAGE ESTATE, CHESHIRE, ENGLAND

Tucked away in a peaceful corner of Cheshire this Grade II listed four-star rural retreat is near the charming village of Holmes Chapel. It has both indoor and outdoor restaurants, comfortable meeting rooms for our event, a heated pool, gym, steam room and tennis courts.

Outdoors there are 20-acres of attractive gardens with views across the Cheshire countryside and Jodrell Bank is within 5 miles of the hotel.

ADDITIONAL DAYS BEFORE AND AFTER

For those wanting to extend their time in and around Lancashire, you are welcome to arrive a few days early or stay a few more days and enjoy the beautiful countryside around Cheshire or visit Manchester and its many scientific sites including the Science and Industry Museum. This can be arranged for an additional fee.

EVENT NOTES

Full event notes will be issued a few weeks prior to the event.

QUESTIONS

Feel to drop us a line at tours@newscientist.com with your questions.

HOW TO GET THERE

De Vere Cranage Estate is easily accessible.

The hotel is minutes away from junction 18 of the M6 motorway. The postcode is CW4 8EW.

The nearest train station is Goosetrey which is just 15 minutes train ride from the mainline station at Crewe. From Goosetrey to the hotel is just 2.4 miles and a local taxi service is available. Alternatively, you can alight at the mainline stations of Crewe or Macclesfield, both of which are 20 minutes by taxi.

New Scientist | Creating science fiction: an immersive writing course