Each day, at our group reading table, we read a play together.  Beginning with a little background information about the play's history - to set the scene - the group read the full text from start to finish, guided by a Shakespeare expert. You choose whether to take a major role, a minor role, or a non-speaking part and have the opportunity to ask clarifying questions along the way.

Each reading is followed by a discussion of key issues and topics - as determined by you and your fellow readers.

Every day there is a workshop which you can join either as an active participant or as a silent observer. Participants are guided through an exploration of key features of Shakespeare's texts in a safe, fun and stimulating environment. Participants in lectures and presentations are invited to ask questions and join a follow-up discussion, while having the opportunity to contribute to ongoing academic research into Shakespeare's plays.

Where possible, your retreat will include an in-house performance related to the week's plays by a member of the internationally acclaimed Shit-Faced Shakespeare theatre company. During every retreat there will also be a group viewing of at least one TV or Film adaptation of one of the week's plays. This will be accompanied by discussion and review of the production and its dramatic impact and exploration of some of the alternative ways in which other productions have portrayed key scenes and characters. 

There are 9 bedrooms available for retreat guests and these can be booked for single or double/twin occupancy. Every room has complimentary high-speed wifi, a widescreen TV, bath and shower with unlimited hot water, and a refreshment tray. Superior rooms also boast a stunning view across the Dee Valley. 

Each retreat caters for up to 15 guests who are provided with three home-cooked meals per day, catering for all dietary needs: breakfast (with a full menu of hot and cold items), lunch (usually a light dish with salad and breads and meat platter) and a two course dinner. Tea and coffee are provided at every break.

Throughout the retreat you are invited to develop your own response to Shakespeare's plays. If you choose to participate, it could be through drama, storytelling, poetry, art, photography, or any other medium. Space and time is provided each day for you to work on your own or with a partner, and at the end of the retreat we invite anyone who wishes, without obligation, to share their creation with the group. If you do not wish to participate in this aspect of a retreat, you will have free time each day to explore our extensive library, relax in our lounge, or enjoy our extensive grounds and the surrounding countryside.

On each Unique Shakespeare Retreat, your host shares ground-breaking insights into the effects of candlelight on Shakespeare's drama and leads a unique candlelight reading for all guests.

Completed under the expert supervision of global Shakespeare authority, Professor Tiffany Stern, and early modern music expert, Dr Simon Smith, Nic's research focuses on the unique effects of Candlelight on Shakespeare's Late Plays and draws on extensive analysis of vision science, 17th century playhouse structures, candle-making, and Shakespeare's texts as printed in the First Folio. 

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