A creative writing workshop with Gary Studley
Join us at The Citadel Café for an evening of inspiration, imagination, and community in the heart of the Western Heights.
This relaxed and friendly session is open to everyone aged 14 and above—whether you’re an experienced writer, new to writing, or just curious about giving it a go.
Led by award-winning creative Gary Studley, we’ll explore simple, creative prompts inspired by the unique history and atmosphere of the Western Heights. You might find yourself writing a story, a poem, or even a letter to the landscape—whatever sparks your imagination.
About the event
Whether you came to last month’s session or are joining us for the first time, you’re warmly invited to the second creative writing evening in our Citadel Sessions series—an open, welcoming event celebrating creativity and community in the heart of the Western Heights.
If you attended the first session in July, you may have been inspired by the writing prompt we offered to create something at home. This event is a relaxed opportunity to continue writing together and share what you've written if you’d like to—but there’s no pressure to read aloud or bring anything with you.
New to the group? Wonderful! You can start from scratch, explore new prompts on the day, or simply come along for a chat and a cup of tea. You’re welcome to write, listen, talk, or bring along some art or craft to work on. However you choose to join in, the focus is on community, creativity, and enjoying the shared space.
About Gary
Gary Studley is an artist, editor, performer, and prize-winning writer who has worked with The Marlowe Theatre, Canterbury Festival, Kent Mining Museum, and English Heritage. As a facilitator of community writing and art projects, Gary has led initiatives at Richborough Roman Fort, Quex Park, Canterbury's Roman Museum, Walmer Castle and Gardens, Pines Calyx Museum, and Dreamland. He also judges literary competitions, teaches creative writing, and leads Dead Hoarse Writers, SoundLines Poets, and Richborough Writers.
Gary’s Writing For Life service promotes writing and strategies for positive mental health, working with individuals and charities such as Porchlight, Ageless Thanet, Suicide Prevention, Kent Refugee Help, Shaw Trust, and East Kent Schools Together. In addition, Gary manages Deal Area Foodbank's warehouse and volunteers his time.
About Citadel Sessions
Citadel Sessions is a series of free monthly events where you can explore the Western Heights through history, art, creative writing, and more. Come to one session or join us for the whole series—it’s entirely up to you.
Spaces are limited to 30, so please book in advance to reserve your spot. We’d love to see you there!
Citadel Sessions is a collaboration between English Heritage, Dover District Council, and The Citadel Welcome Centre Café, made possible with funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, thanks to National Lottery players, and Historic England.