Creative retreats
Scotland Reading & Creative Retreat
A little glimpse of what's been...
This September, Collective Glimpses gathered a group of creative women in the Scottish Borders for five days of reading, creating, exploring and simply being.
We spent our days wandering through ancient woodland, making things with our hands, sharing meals around long tables, reading by the fire, swimming in the river, foraging, journaling, laughing until our cheeks hurt and making friendships that extended far beyond the retreat itself.
It was everything Collective Glimpses was created for: creativity, connection, curiosity and a little bit of magic.
And perhaps... there's more to come.
The next Collective Glimpses retreat is currently being dreamed up for January 2027, returning to the Scottish Borders for a slower, cosier winter edition.
Think crackling fires, frosty woodland walks, books piled beside the bed, creative projects at the kitchen table, long dinners, candlelight, good conversation and the particular magic of being tucked away somewhere beautiful in winter.
The details are still taking shape, so nothing has been announced just yet.
If you'd like to hear first when the next retreat begins to come together, join the Retreat List below.
September 2026
A little glimpse into the magic
Five days in the Scottish Borders, shared with fourteen wonderful women.
Books, paint, poetry, woodland walks, river swims, candlelit dinners, fireside conversations, foraging, handmade journals, spontaneous dancing and plenty of time to do absolutely nothing at all.
Here are a few glimpses from our first Collective Glimpses retreat.
Testimonials
The Rhythm of the Retreat
Bring the novel you've been meaning to read, your sketchbook, journal, knitting, or any creative project calling your name. Each day we'll also explore a thoughtfully curated creative activity designed to awaken imagination, embrace play, and remind you that creating doesn't need a purpose it can simply be joyful.
4 nights at the enchanting Traquair House Estate (14–18 September)
Home-cooked vegetarian meals made with love
Daily creative workshops with all materials provided
Gentle daily meditation woven throughout the retreat
Woodland walks, River swim, foraging & exploration of the historic estate
An Enchanted Folklore themed candlelit dinner
Poetry evenings, sharing circles, cosy games & fireside moments
Plenty of time to rest, read, create, and simply be
A nourishing digital detox in nature
Access to the Traquair House- Scotland’s Oldest Inhabited House (Woodlands, Gardens, Maze, Tennis Court)
A space to rediscover the wonder of girlhood where creativity is celebrated, curiosity is encouraged, and connection comes naturally. Together we'll gather around long tables, wander through ancient woodland, laugh until our cheeks ache, and create memories that feel like something from a storybook. Leave with lifelong friendships and a heart that feels a little lighter.
A Return to Girlhood
Whats Included
A Sanctuary for Creativity
The Invitation
You're invited back into the magic of girlhood ,a place of childlike creativity, curiosity and joy.
A space where you can feel like the main character in a Jane Austen novel; reading a book curled up by the fireplace with a warm cup of tea, Candle lit dinners, wandering through the Scottish countryside and embracing the quiet whimsy of Scotland.
Spend your days creating endlessly, exploring little hidden gems, enjoying cosy evenings that feel like grown-up slumber parties, and sharing genuine connection with open-minded, like-hearted women.
A chance to recharge, reconnect and find your sparkle again.
Simply be yourself in a feminine, creative space designed to inspire joy, curiosity and beautiful memories.
You're invited into a glimpse of a truly special experience.
I can’t wait to welcome you. ♡
**BRING A FRIEND & SAVE 10%**
Make the retreat even more special by sharing the experience with someone you love. Book together, share one of our private rooms, and you'll both receive 10% off your retreat price.
USE CODE: FRIEND10
This offer is available for two people booking together and sharing one private room. One booking covers both guests.
Rooms
£800- Yellow Room (Private)
Share with a friend for £650
Private room
Double/king bed
Charming and cosy
Next to a private shower room
Quiet first-floor location
-Maids Room 1 (Shared) sold out
Shared with one other guest
Two comfortable single beds
Bright, comfortable space
Access to shared bathroom facilities
Located in the rear wing of the house
£720 Noble Room (Premium Shared)
Shared Room
Two comfortable single beds
Spacious bedroom
Shares a large bathroom with the Four Poster Room
Premium shared accommodation
£780- Tweed Room (shared)
Shared room
Single bed
Bright, spacious room
Adjacent to the house's largest bathroom
Beautiful views over the estate
£700- Maids Room 2 (Shared)
Two comfortable single beds
Shared with one other guest
Cosy and peaceful
Access to shared bathroom facilities
Located in the rear wing of the house
£850- Four Poster Room SOLD OUT
Share with a friend for £700
Private room
Elegant four-poster bed
Historic period features
Shares a spacious bathroom with the Noble Room
Most luxurious room in the house
£780- Ground Floor Room (Private)
Share with a friend for £630
Private room
Double/king bed
Located on the ground floor
Adjacent to an accessible wet room
Ideal for guests preferring step-free access or a quieter location
£650 Attic Room Sold out
Shared with one other guest
Comfortable single beds
Located on the top floor of the house
Dedicated shared attic bathroom
Cosy, peaceful retreat with charming character
Choose the room option that feels right for you ♡
BOOKINGS END 30 AUGUST
Each room has its own unique charm, blending historic character with modern comfort. Accommodation has been thoughtfully tiered to reflect the size, privacy, and amenities of each room, allowing you to choose the option that best suits your preferences. Whether you prefer a private sanctuary or a shared space to connect with fellow guests, every room offers a peaceful retreat within this beautiful historic estate. Prices include the cost of the whole retreat experience.
Please note: the shared room photos show beds together for styling, but they will be separated into two single beds before arrival.
Room Prices include the cost of the whole retreat
Estate & Surrounding area
Provide a short description of the gallery, highlighting key things.
Vision Board
Nearest Airport
Edinburgh Airport (51 km)
Nearest Airport 2
Glasgow Airport (103 km)
Nearest Town/City
Innerleithen (4 km)
Nearest Village
Cardona (3 km)
Discover the Beauty of Traquair Estate & the Tweed Valley
Whether you're exploring peaceful woodland trails, watching wildlife, or simply taking in the stillness of the landscape, Traquair Estate is a place where nature, history, and creativity come together to inspire and restore.
Nestled in the heart of the Scottish Borders, our retreat is surrounded by some of Scotland's most inspiring landscapes. Ancient woodlands, rolling hills, and the tranquil River Tweed create the perfect setting to slow down, reconnect, and find creative inspiration.
Just beyond the estate lies woodland featured in the acclaimed documentary The Secret Life of Trees, where centuries-old forests reveal the quiet beauty and hidden connections of the natural world. The stunning Tweed Valley offers scenic walks, breathtaking views, and an abundance of wildlife, from red squirrels and roe deer to soaring birds of prey and vibrant woodland birds.
A short distance away, the historic Neidpath Castle overlooks the River Tweed, adding a touch of Scottish history and folklore to this remarkable landscape. Nearby Peebles and Innerleithen offer charming cafés, independent shops, and a warm Borders welcome.
Scenic Gallery
Getting There
Traquair House is easily accessible from Edinburgh by train or bus. We'll share recommended travel options before the retreat, and if you'd like a little extra support, you're welcome to reach out—we're happy to help coordinate your journey or arrange transport from nearby stations for an additional cost. Please note that travel to and from the retreat is not included.
Frequently asked questions
Who is the retreat for?
This retreat is for women aged 18–28 who want to feel the magic of connection, art, reading, girlhood. A moment to be whimsical, relax, detox from everyday life and feel the magic that Scottland has to offer.
No experience in art, writing or any creative hobby is needed just an open mind and a willingness to try something new.
What kind of creative projects can I bring?
Anything you'd enjoy spending time on!
Writing, painting, photography, crochet, knitting, journaling, sewing, illustration, design—or simply a sketchbook and an idea.
There are no expectations or experience required.
How do I get there?
The easiest way is to travel to Edinburgh before making your way to the Scottish Borders.
A complimentary pick-up and drop-off service will be available from the local bus stop near the retreat.
An optional shared airport transfer from Edinburgh Airport may also be arranged for an additional fee, depending on guest arrival times.
Full travel information will be sent after booking.
What isn't included?
Flights or travel to Scotland
Travel to the retreat meeting point
Optional airport transfer (if required)
Meals or drinks purchased during outings
Personal spending
What should I bring?
A detailed packing guide will be sent before the retreat.
Some essentials include:
Comfortable clothes
Walking shoes
Warm layers for autumn weather
Your favourite book
A creative project you'd like to work on
Any personal toiletries or medications
What will we eat?
All meals prepared at the house will be homemade and vegetarian, using fresh seasonal ingredients.
During meals out, there will be the option to choose meat or other dishes if preferred.
Dietary requirements and allergies can be catered for—just let us know when booking.
Is there a schedule?
The retreat follows a gentle rhythm rather than a strict timetable.
There will be a balance of creative time, group activities, adventures and free time to relax.
A full itinerary will be sent before the retreat begins.
What's included?
Your retreat includes:
Four nights' accommodation
All breakfasts, lunches and dinners at the house
Daily meditation
Creative workshops and activities
Time for your own creative projects
Woodland walks and foraging
Group adventures around the Scottish Borders
Themed candlelit dinner experience
Welcome gift
What if I need to cancel?
Cancellation terms and booking conditions will be provided before confirming your place.
Travel insurance is strongly recommended.