Writing Spaces
Custom House Writers’ Room
A free, bookable dedicated room for anyone who needs an inspirational environment to work on their creative writing, whether alone or in a small group.
The space is equipped with a large writer’s desk with a view over the Quayside. Chairs and more tables can be added if needed. You are also free to browse our library of works by the fantastic writers who have been part of the Quay Words programme.
The Writer’s Room runs on a seasonal rotation throughout the year. As such, the writers’ room is only available at specific times:
March: 11am- 3.45pm Thurs—Sun
April: 11am- 4.45pm everyday
July: 11am- 4.45pm everyday
Oct: 11am- 4.45pm everyday
Nov: 11am- 3.45pm Thurs—Sun
Please email your booking with a contact name and number, time and date requested, group size, and what you’re working on!
The Devon & Exeter Institution
Founded in 1813 the Devon & Exeter Institution is an independent library & educational charity (since 1989) that works closely with the University of Exeter & other Exeter heritage sites.
With two libraries that hold unique historical book collections, the DEI is also the premier institution collecting books on Devon’s history and historical figures.
Meetings rooms are available for business hire, the libraries available for cultural activities and events, and research appointments can be made.
The DEI is also open for public tours every Wednesday afternoon from 1-4pm.
Those looking for writing spaces can make use of the facilities by taking out a membership.
Work:Space by Libraries Unlimited
Join a thriving, supportive community of professionals in a way that works for you at Libraries Unlimited’s new Work:Spaces at Newton Abbot and Teignmouth libraries.
Both Work:Spaces are in convenient town centre locations, with full wheelchair access. Both feature free Wi-Fi, access to bike storage and showers, and tea and coffee making facilities.
When you book to work in one of our Work:Spaces you can become a library member, with access to resources from the Business and IP Centre Devon. These include online resources and business databases, as well as in person support at Exeter, Barnstaple and Paignton.
Daily and monthly pricing is available, starting from £10 per day and £100 per month.
For more information or to book, email or call 0333 2342123.
Charles Causley Trust - Cyprus Well
Cyprus Well was the home of renowned poet Charles Causley for over 50 years. This peaceful cottage is a haven for creatives, tucked away down a quiet lane, just 5 minutes from Launceston’s town centre, yet with direct access to the beautiful Cornish landscape.
Cyprus Well remains largely unaltered and is full of Charles’s belongings. You can work in his study, sit at his desk, read from his library, listen to his records and even play on his piano.
Owned by the Causley Trust since 2014, they have welcomed artists, writers, performers and musicians including Roger McGough, Andrew Motion, Rick Stein, Anthony Vahni Capildeo, Penelope Shuttle, Rachel Piercey and Patrick Gale.
Contact the Causley Team at info@causleytrust.org to create your bespoke stay, with creative, mentoring and catering options also available.
Beginning from £100 per night for full paying visitors, immerse yourselves in Charles’ world, sitting at the very desk in which he wrote some of his most famous work. Play a tune on his piano, explore his collection of records and books, before taking a stroll into Launceston town centre, which featured heavily in his writing.
Their cultural stays will offer additional options for 1-1 mentoring, artistic support, guided walks and time with the Causley Trust staff to ask all of your questions about Charles and Launceston. They also have several catering options which you can explore by getting in touch with them by email at info@causleytrust.org.
St Martin's Church, Exeter
The Churches Conservation Trust invites expressions of interest from anyone wishing to consider using the gallery of St Martin’s Church, Exeter as a workspace or studio.
St Martin’s is located right in the city centre next to Princesshay and the High Street with the gallery overlooking Cathedral Green. It is one of the oldest and finest buildings in the Exeter, offering an inspirational place to work. The gallery measures about 10 square metres and has electricity; it is accessible via a staircase from the entrance and will be available for use in 2025 for external hires, general hire, or writing space.
Contact Richard Davis davisrbj@gmail.com 07490 550309
Gröndalshús - Reykjavík UNESCO City of Literature
Gröndalshús, nestled in the heart of Reykjavík’s old town, is the lovingly restored former residence of the renowned Icelandic writer, illustrator, and scholar Benedikt Gröndal (1826-1907). Established in 2017 as a cultural house and residency, it is operated by Reykjavík UNESCO City of Literature.
Located in Vesturgata 5b in Grjótaþorp at the junction of Fischersund and Mjóstræti, the house features a residency flat on the ground floor. This flat caters to visiting writers, artists, scholars, and translators of Icelandic literature, offering them a unique space to focus on their work in Reykjavik.
The residency is available for rental periods ranging from 2 to 8 weeks, with a standard weekly fee of 80,000 ISK. For those interested in staying for a week or a shorter period, this option is available for an additional cleaning fee of 35,000 ISK. An extra charge of 5,000 ISK per week is also applicable for each additional person staying.
The flat is thoughtfully furnished, providing amenities like free WiFi, a bedroom with a king-size bed, a living room with a double sleeper sofa, a fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher, a dining area that can also serve as a workspace, a bathroom with a shower, and a washing machine. Bed linens and towels are included for guests’ convenience.
For bookings and further information, inquiries can be directed via email at grondalshus@reykjavik.is or through a form available here below.