Have you been talking about writing your book for months (or years!) but never seem to find the time, focus, or confidence to get started?
Imagine spending a day away from the distractions of everyday life, surrounded by nature, gentle canal views, and a small group of like-minded writers who share your dream of becoming an author.
Welcome aboard Lilliput, a beautiful narrowboat moored in the peaceful village of Lapworth, Warwickshire.

These intimate writing retreat days have been designed to help you step away from your busy schedule and immerse yourself in the creative process. You might have been dreaming of writing a non-fiction book to support your business or a novel that has been living in your imagination for years. Either way, you’ll leave with clarity, confidence, and a practical plan to move forward.
Why Join Me?
These workshops combine practical teaching, creativity, inspiration, and accountability in a relaxed and supportive environment. With just four places available on each retreat day, you’ll receive plenty of personal guidance and have the opportunity to ask questions throughout.
No stuffy classroom! It’s a unique writing experience on the water.
Choose Your Workshop
Non-Fiction Writing Workshop
Friday 4th September | 10.30am – 4pm
Ready to turn your knowledge, experience, or expertise into a book?
This workshop is perfect for coaches, consultants, business owners, professionals, and aspiring authors who want to share what they know and create a book that supports their goals.
During the day you’ll learn how to:
- Define your target audience
- Clarify your book’s purpose and message
- Structure and organise your content
- Create a practical chapter outline
- Develop your writing voice
- Build a realistic writing plan
By the end of the day, you’ll have a clear roadmap for your non-fiction book and know exactly what steps to take next.
Investment: £195
Split payment option available
Fiction Writing Workshop
Saturday 5th September | 10.30am – 4pm
Do you have characters whispering in your ear? A story idea you can’t stop thinking about? Or perhaps you’ve started writing but aren’t sure where to go next? This creative retreat day will help you develop the foundations of a compelling novel.
During the day you’ll learn how to:
- Create memorable and believable characters
- Develop engaging plots and storylines
- Build conflict and tension
- Explore setting and atmosphere
- Strengthen your storytelling skills
- Create a plan for your novel
Inspired by the beauty of canal life and the surrounding countryside, you’ll leave feeling motivated, energised, and excited to write.
Investment: £195
Split payment option available
What to Expect
- A full day writing retreat aboard Lilliput
- Small group experience (maximum four writers)
- Personal guidance and support
- Writing exercises and practical activities
- Plenty of opportunities to ask questions
- Tea, coffee, and refreshments throughout the day
- Beautiful canal-side surroundings to spark creativity (we stay moored for the duration of the workshop)
Please bring your own lunch or enjoy a meal at The Boot Inn, conveniently located just behind the mooring.
Is This For You?
These retreat days are perfect if:
- You’ve always wanted to write a book
- You struggle to find time to focus on your writing
- You want expert guidance and encouragement
- You enjoy learning in small, supportive groups
- You’re looking for inspiration away from your usual environment
- You’re ready to stop talking about writing and start doing it
Spaces Are Strictly Limited
Lilliput is a narrowboat, not a cruise ship! To keep the experience personal and comfortable, there are only four places available on each workshop day. If you’ve been waiting for the perfect opportunity to focus on your writing, this is it. Come aboard, meet fellow aspiring authors, and take the first step towards bringing your book to life.
Reserve Your Place Today
Choose the workshop that fits your writing goals and join me for a memorable day of creativity, inspiration, and progress on the water (email hello@shelley-wilson.com for details of split payment options).
Non-Fiction Workshop – Friday 4th September
Fiction Workshop – Saturday 5th September
Meet Your Host
I’m Shelley Wilson, author of more than twenty books and founder of Shelley Wilson Writing Mentor. I’ve helped hundreds of aspiring authors move from idea to finished manuscript, and I’d love to help you do the same. My approach is practical, supportive, and designed to help you make real progress without overwhelm.
