First-of-its-Kind Dual Poetry Course Connects Wales and Scotland Across Languages and Landscapes
This first-of-its-kind partnership unfolds across two connected residencies: at Tŷ Newydd in November 2026 and at Moniack Mhor in May 2027. Rooted in the distinct cultural and environmental contexts of northwest Wales and the Scottish Highlands, the course will explore themes of place, belonging and poetic responsibility through a rich interplay of Welsh, Scottish Gaelic, Scots, English and Arabic traditions.
Set within contrasting yet complementary landscapes, participants will be invited to respond directly to their surroundings, while reflecting on the poet’s role in contemporary society. From marking national moments to engaging with the climate crisis, the course positions poetry as both a creative and civic practice: a way of documenting experience, shaping dialogue and imagining change. Guided local trips at each location will further deepen participants’ connection to place and provide additional creative stimulus.
Through workshops and discussion, participants will explore writing across borders and languages, with particular attention to the creative possibilities of working in and alongside minoritised languages. There will be opportunities for detailed, constructive feedback in a supportive and rigorous environment, alongside guest poet sessions featuring readings and conversation.
Participants may choose to attend either residency or experience the full cross-nation journey by taking part in both. Bursary places are available for both residencies, helping to ensure poets from diverse backgrounds can take part in this cross-nation course.
Leusa Llewelyn, Literature Wales’ Artistic Director and Rachel Humphries the Centre Director for Moniack Mhor said of the partnership,
“Travelling Between Voices brings writers, languages and landscapes into a shared creative conversation across Wales and Scotland. As national writing centres, Tŷ Newydd Writing Centre and Moniack Mhor are committed to supporting work rooted in place while fostering dialogue across borders. By connecting Welsh, Gaelic and other linguistic traditions, this partnership offers space to explore identity, community and the role of poetry in shaping how we understand and respond to the world today.”
This partnership between Tŷ Newydd Writing Centre and Moniack Mhor marks a significant moment in the cultural relationship between Wales and Scotland. By bringing together two national writing centres with shared commitments to language, place and literary heritage, Travelling Between Voices establishes a new model for collaboration across the UK’s creative sectors one that not only fosters artistic exchange, but strengthens connections between communities, sustains minoritised languages and highlights the vital role of literature in public and cultural life.
Booking & Further Information
Places are limited, and early booking is recommended. For full course details and to reserve a place, visit the Tŷ Newydd Writing Centre and Moniack Mhor websites.
About the Organisations
Tŷ Newydd is the National Writing Centre of Wales. Established in 1990, it is run by Literature Wales the national charity for the development of literature in Wales.
Moniack Mhor is Scotland’s National Writing Centre. It is located in the Scottish Highlands, known internationally for its immersive residential courses and commitment to nurturing writers at all stages of their development.