Secluded writer’s cabins

Lichen Cabin is a tranquil oasis of creativity without a soul in sight, but with plenty to inspire writers. Tucked away in an idyllic orchard, the cabin is full of artistic touches, clever upcycling and even has a pinboard of inspiration. There’s a rustic wooden desk, plug sockets, a comfy sofa and a wood burner to keep your toes warm and provide gently crackling background noise. If writer’s block strikes, just wander over to the stunning sculpture garden on the other side of the main house, and let your mind wander as you stroll through herbaceous borders, woods and formal lawns. When it’s time to refuel, pick up supplies from Brockweir Community Eco Shop, walk to the friendly Brockweir Inn or quench your thirst at Kingstone microbrewery with a tour and ale tasting.

“After nourishment, shelter and companionship, stories are the thing we need most in the world.” - Philip Pullman

If wild, sweeping vistas inspire you, you’ve found your happy place. Rowan Cabin in Scotland has epic views of Loch Venachar and the Trossachs National Park through a wall of windows. Settle into the cosy corner sofa, let your gaze drift over the still waters and fresh ideas will glide unexpectedly into your uncluttered mind. Just make sure you keep a pad on the coffee table to scribble down any genius plot ideas and don’t be surprised if a rugged Scottish ranger suddenly appears on the page. Poems could be written about the wildlife in this spot — you might spot ospreys, golden eagles, peregrine falcons, otters and beavers as you explore. Round off each day with a home cooked meal pre-ordered from the owners, then cuddle up by the fire bowl and gaze up at the twinkling stars in the Dark Sky Reserve.

“The first draft of anything is shit.” - Ernest Hemingway

City creatives can travel an hour and a half from the capital and arrive in a remote idyll at Idaho Cabin in Sussex. Totally secluded and off-grid, it’s a chance to unplug and let your mind wander without digital distractions, so bring a traditional notebook and pen to embrace screen-free simplicity. There are plenty of places to sit and let the words flow whether you prefer the cosy table by the wood burner inside, the outside table on the decking or the bench overlooking the pond. In between writing sessions, stretch your legs with walks through the ancient woodland, go for an invigorating wild swim in the river Ouse or try one of the owners’ bespoke craft courses. You can try your hand at spatula-making, pole-lathe turning, willow weaving or making products with beeswax. It’s another skill to add to your artistic resume.

“A word after a word after a word is power.” - Margaret Atwood

You’ll feel like you’re starring in a novel as well as writing one at The Oak House in Somerset. Perched high on the Cotswold Way, the stunning oak-framed cabin is surrounded by bluebell woods, with an octagonal deck among the trees that gives views over beautiful Bath and the rolling countryside. There’s wifi and plenty of cosy writing spots inside with a table, sofa and designer leather armchair, but before you start typing take a peaceful moment out on the deck to gaze at the distant Welsh hills with a hot coffee. While you’re contemplating the natural beauty, Jimmy, the ginger tomcat (and author’s mews) might pad over to say hello. Nail the day’s word count, then write yourself a plot twist by dropping down into Bath to explore the indie bookshops and Jane Austen landmarks while soaking up the history. The people watching from pavement cafes might inspire a brilliant new character.

“I can shake off everything as I write; my sorrows disappear, my courage is reborn.” - Anne Frank

Channel Mole, Ratty and Badger (but perhaps not Mr Toad) at The Arc in Cambridgeshire. Apparently Kenneth Grahame drew inspiration for ‘The Wind in The Willows from his stay at the Island House. There’s definitely magic in the air at the cabin with its bright, homespun design that combines crocheted rugs and weathered furniture with contemporary touches like an iPod dock. It’s a light, welcoming space to write in whether you choose to spread out at the large oak dining table or sit on the fairy-lit veranda overlooking the river Nene. The owners are foodies and have left everything you need to whip up delicious, nutritious feasts to fuel the creative genius. The country-style kitchen boasts multiple hobs, antique saucepans and shelves heaving with cookbooks but if you’d rather someone else did the hard work, The Crown pub is just ten minutes walk away.

“There are three rules for writing a novel. Unfortunately, no one knows what they are.” - W. Somerset Maugham