at the Royal Bath Hotel, Bournemouth
About the Event
Our Author Workshops are relaxed, practical coffee mornings for writers at every stage.
Held on the last Saturday of each month from 10:30-12:30. Each month we welcome a guest — a published author, editor, publicist, bookseller or other industry professional — to share real‑world experience in a short, interactive session.
Expect take‑away tips you can use straight away, time for questions, and space to connect with fellow writers over coffee.
The Venue: The Royal Bath Hotel
Opened in 1838, the Royal Bath Hotel is one of Bournemouth’s most historic and storied landmarks. Perched above the seafront with views of the gardens and bay, the hotel has long attracted writers, artists and thinkers seeking inspiration by the sea.
The 1838 Lounge
Steeped in heritage and charm, the 1838 Lounge combines period elegance with contemporary comfort. With its high ceilings, soft lighting and relaxed atmosphere, it’s the perfect space to relax, learn, and share ideas.
This intimate lounge offers a welcoming space for readers and authors alike.
What to Expect
- A focused guest talk offering practical insight into writing, publishing, or the business of books.
- Networking time to meet other writers and our guest.
- A cup of tea or coffee on arrival
Book Your Place
Tickets are available on Eventbrite, TicketTailor and via our partner The Book Hub.
Please note that Eventbrite applies the highest booking fees, while The Book Hub offers the lowest-cost option for purchasing tickets.
Upcoming Workshops & Guest Speakers
Each month we host an author or industry professional to share skills, experience, and advice in an interactive format. Topics may include craft, editing, marketing, self‑publishing, traditional routes, publicity, queries, and more.
30 May 2026
Alice G. May:
Self-Publishing on Kindle: A Practical Guide to KDP
A step-by-step look at publishing through Kindle Direct Publishing, covering formatting, uploading, pricing, and getting your book into readers’ hands.
27 June 2026
Elanor McBay & Alex Stone:
Social Media for Authors: What to Post and Why It Matters
A practical introduction to social media for writers. Learn what platforms work best, what kind of content readers engage with, and how to build a sustainable online presence without feeling overwhelmed.
We’ll also look at simple tools, graphics, and strategies you can start using straight away.
25 July 2026
Kathleen McGurl:
Beating the Blank Page: Overcoming Procrastination
Why do writers procrastinate, and how can we break the cycle? Kathleen shares practical strategies for tackling the blank page, building writing habits, and keeping momentum when motivation fades.
29 August 2026
Alex Stone:
Bringing Your Setting to Life: Writing Location & Atmosphere
How setting shapes character, mood and story. This practical session explores how to use location and atmosphere to deepen emotional impact and make your world feel real to the reader.
26 September 2026
A Full Day of Author Workshops – Coastal Crime Festival Special
A Full Day of Author Workshops – Coastal Crime Festival Special
This September, instead of our usual monthly workshop, we’re bringing you something bigger.
As part of the Coastal Crime Festival, we’re hosting a full day of practical, inspiring workshops designed for writers at every stage of their journey.
Whether you’re just starting out, working on your first manuscript, or already published and looking to grow your career — there will be something here for you.
What to expect:
- ✍️ Pitching to agents – how to present your work with confidence
- 💼 The business of being an author – royalties, income streams, and tax essentials
- ✂️ Editing workshops – sharpening your manuscript and developing your voice
- 🔍 Getting the details right – from research to realism
- 📖 Writing journeys – honest insights from authors at different stages
While Coastal Crime celebrates the crime genre, these workshops are open and relevant to all writers, no matter what you write.
This is your chance to spend a full day immersed in writing, learning, and connecting with others who are on the same path.
31st October 2026
Alex Stone:
Truth, Lies and Secrets: Writing Unreliable Narrators
How do you keep readers guessing while still playing fair? This session explores the art of unreliable narration, misdirection, and psychological tension in storytelling.
Past Workshops
31st January 2026
Alex Stone:
Delving Deep Into Character Emotions
28th February 2026
Alice G. May:
Choosing Your Publishing Path
28th March 2026
Gary Dalkin & Sophie Beal:
Passion vs Profit – Inside a Small Press
Author Events 