Join us here at The Community Farm for a playful day of nature and wildlife-inspired, purposeful writing with local poet Beth Calverley.

“You only have to let the soft animal of your body / love what it loves”

– Mary Oliver, Wild Geese

During the session we will draw inspiration from the land and each other, with the opportunity to discover and try out new ways of writing and creating. You’ll leave with some fresh poems and prose as well as abundant inspiration to take with you on your writing journey!

The workshop will take place within The Farm’s cosy Roundhouse and its garden, which boast stunning views of Chew Valley Lake and the surrounding Mendip Hills.

What to expect:

The day will start with introductions as we tune into our minds, bodies, senses and writing muscles. We’ll then stretch our legs as Tom Richardson, Managing Director at The Farm, leads us on an informative farm tour. Along the way, we’ll pause to forage inspiration from the landscape, plants and wildlife which surround us.

Later on, we’ll enjoy a delicious farm-grown lunch together, before commencing an exploratory afternoon of writing in the Roundhouse. We’ll plant a crop of creative seeds, exploring sensory ways of gathering, presenting and decorating our words. We’ll then close with an invitational sharing circle before we say our goodbyes.

There will be no pressure to share and all activities are invitations. No experience or skills are needed – this can be a first step into writing, a pathway towards refreshed creativity, or a chance to gain clarity and inspiration for next season’s harvests.

Please note:

• The farm walk will take 1hr - 1hr 15 minutes and includes some uneven ground that is not suitable for a wheelchair.
• People should get in touch if they have any accessibility needs before booking so we can assess suitability and whether any adjustments can be made.
• This event is suitable for ages 16+. Under 18s must be accompanied by a paying adult.

About Beth:

I am a poet, creative guide, and founder of The Poetry Machine, grown in the Chew Valley and based in North Somerset. Working extensively in outdoor, cultural, heritage, community and healthcare settings, I support people of all ages to describe their feelings, feel part of nature, and strengthen their connection with people, places and wildlife through collaborative poetry-making. More about my work here: www.thepoetrymachine.live / @poetrymachine

Main image credit: Paul Blakemore