A Gathering of Creative Minds
23rd-26th march 2026
There’s something about the Peak District. The way the hills hold stories and the wind whispers of paths not taken. Here, among the rolling landscapes and quiet corners, we’re building something rare: a retreat where creatives come to reconnect, reflect, and reignite their passion for what they do.
We didn’t want WYRD to be just another Photography Workshop, We’re Bringing together photographers, artists, and makers who see the world just a bit differently and know that creativity is something to be nurtured, shared, and explored. a real life, in person community that seems to be dwindling, especially as we run our solo businesses!
WHY WYRD?
Rooted in ancient heritage and storytelling. The word Wyrd (ancestral to modern weird) once meant something closer to fate or destiny; the unpredictable, ever-turning tapestry of life.
To embrace Wyrd is to accept the creative journey for what it truly is, messy, raw, and always evolving. Recognising that through our craft and the community we build, we shape our own paths. Resilient, purposeful, and uniquely ours.
That spirit of shaping your own way feels right at home in the Peak District, an area shaped by those who once carved out their lives in the hills amongst the rugged landscape.
Wyrd embraces that mindset: owning your story, making choices that matter, and connecting with others who are on the same wavelength.
Photo Credit: Ed Godden
What Is Wyrd?
Photo Credit: Igor Demba
Spread over 3 days, Wyrd is a photography retreat
for those wanting to escape the hustle.
Pause, connect and learn from like-minded creatives in an inspiring setting.
This purposefully isn’t a packed-out theatre event with an overwhelmingly long list of guest speakers..
Wyrd is different. It’s a retreat with space to breathe, curated sessions that spark real conversations, and plenty of time to think without the pressure of a packed schedule. Wyrd works best when you show up, willing to share and learn from others attending!
Set in the heart of the Peak District, in the remote village of Wildboarclough. We’ll take ourselves away from the grind for a couple of days, and come away refreshed and inspired with some golden nuggets from the incredible minds we have joining us!
WHAT TO EXPECT
Over three days, immersed in the Peak District landscape, Wyrd will pull apart the real anatomy of running a creative business. The messy stuff, the breakthroughs, the marketing ideas that don’t sound like LinkedIn manifestos.
The aim is not to stack up a hundred strategies you’ll never use. It’s for those who slow down enough to actually think, swap notes with others walking the same crooked path, and hear practical insights and a ton of inspiration from some of the best minds working today.
We’ll deep dive into what it really takes to build something meaningful and sustainable, then leave you with the tools (and the energy) to actually go and do it.
No rigid timelines. No endless presentations. But real conversations, unconventional thinking, and a community of likeminded creatives.
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At Wyrd, we’re creating space for real-time, open conversations led by creative minds who’ve been there and done it.
We’re aiming for genuine dialogues where you can ask questions, share your thoughts, and be part of the discussion.With the intimate setting and small group vibe, these talks become something deeper. Insightful, thought-provoking, and unfiltered.
Sharing ideas and stories, giving you the kind of knowledge you only get from honest conversations with people who understand the creative journey. -
Begin each day how you need to. Maybe it’s yoga. Maybe it’s coffee in total silence. Maybe it’s just staring into the woods and questioning everything.
This time is yours with no pressure, no hierarchy of wellness. -
Sometimes the best ideas come when you’re not sitting in a room. A guided camera walk with our speakers to gain insight into their way of working. they’re an intentional way to let the surroundings inspire new perspectives.
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Our version of connection is wood-fired, slow-cooked, and eaten with your hands if you like.
We’re big believers in bonding over food and building a good sense of community. Sitting down together where the pressure is off and people can share stories, getting to know each other beyond the small talk. -
This is where the lines blur.
Speakers become attendees. Tangents become insights. You might cry. You might start a zine. You might just sip something nice and listen in.
These sessions are the glue that binds the Wyrd experience. -
Yes, you’ll learn. Yes, it’ll be useful. But no one’s here to sell you a funnel or seven-step system.
This is candid insight from creatives who’ve actually done the work. The kind of stuff you usually only hear at 1am in the smoking area.
We’re bringing in creative minds from different backgrounds to share their stories, not as polished presentations, but as real conversations about what they’ve learned along the way. You’ll leave each session not just feeling inspired, but equipped with practical insights and ideas to take back into your own work.
MEET YOUR SPEAKERS
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KATE HAMPSON
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ED GODDEN
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IGOR DEMBA
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DEPARTMENT TWO
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T.B.A
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T.B.A
MEET YOUR HOST:
Hey, I’m Luke, a photographer and creative based in Nottinghamshire. I’ve spent the past 15 years working in the creative arts and music industries, and for the last 5 years, I’ve been a full-time professional photographer.
Before photography took over, I was deeply involved in the music industry in sales & marketing as well as writing, recording, and touring across the UK. That’s where I first learned the power of community and how important it is to build real connections.
After years of working with people through photography, I realised that some of the most meaningful moments happen when there’s space to just be yourself. No pressure, no performance, just real conversations and shared experiences. That’s what led me to create Wyrd Retreat.
To connect with like-minded people who get it, in a real and open setting. It’s a chance to reflect, recharge, and have the kind of conversations that leave you feeling inspired and grounded. It’s those chats around the fire or a walk through the Peak District, the unexpected and unassuming moments that build something lasting.
I know how isolating the creative journey can sometimes feel, and I wanted to create a space where we could break through that. Where honesty and openness are the norm. I can’t wait to welcome you to Wyrd and share this space with you.
WYRD PARTNERS
Where
You’ll Stay
Set in the heart of the Peak District, ARC forms the perfect setting for what Wyrd is all about. We chose it because it’s more than just any old accommodation; it’s a space designed to host community and inspire whilst still giving you the space and comfort you need to reflect.
The ARC Peaks accommodation is designed to balance privacy with community, giving you the chance to unwind while also fostering connection with like-minded creatives. With a range of sleeping arrangements to suit your preference, you can choose from private sanctuary rooms, shared twin rooms, or a more communal loft space.
It’s laid-back, welcoming, and perfect for those moments where real conversations just happen. No pressure, no expectations, just people being themselves and sharing ideas in a setting that feels like home.
Book your SPOT
Wyrd Retreat is designed to be an intimate and unforgettable experience.
taking place on 23rd - 26th March 2026.
To keep it personal and impactful, we’re keeping numbers limited; just 15 tickets available. Below are your options to secure your place and make the most of your retreat experience.
Private Sanctuary Room + RETREAT TICKET
£1,750
The ultimate retreat experience, designed for those who want to immerse themselves fully while enjoying their own space.
Included:
Private single occupancy room + En Suite for complete comfort and tranquility
Exclusive welcome gift
Full access to all retreat activities and workshops
Optional morning yoga sessions to start your day with intention
Fireside gatherings for honest, open conversations
Creative talks led by industry experts
Reflective walks and group activities
All meals prepared by private chefs, including the final night’s Celebratory feast.
Snacks and refreshments throughout the day
Personal retreat guidebook and journal
Shared Twin Room + RETREAT Ticket
£1,150 P/P
Perfect for those who want a bit of privacy while still being connected to the group. Share the space with another creative while enjoying your own bed and plenty of room to recharge.
Included:
Comfortable twin beds in a shared room + En Suite (2 People)
Full access to all retreat activities and workshops
Optional morning yoga sessions to start your day with intention
Fireside gatherings for honest, open conversations
Creative talks led by industry experts
Reflective walks and group activities
All meals prepared by private chefs, including the final night’s Celebratory feast.
Snacks and refreshments throughout the day
Personal retreat guidebook and journal
Shared LOFT Spot + RETREAT Ticket
£950
The most social option, perfect for those who want to connect and share the experience with like-minded creatives.
Included:
Single bed with privacy curtain in communal loft + En Suite (up to 5 People)
Full access to all retreat activities and workshops
Optional morning yoga sessions to start your day with intention
Fireside gatherings for honest, open conversations
Creative talks led by industry experts
Reflective walks and group activities
All meals prepared by private chefs, including the final night’s Celebratory feast.
Snacks and refreshments throughout the day
Personal retreat guidebook and journal
WHAT’S THE SCHEDULE?
DAY ONE
4:00 PM: Arrival and Check-In
Get settled into your chosen accommodation.
Meet and greet with fellow attendees and hosts.
5:00 PM: Welcome Gathering
ED GODDEN:
7:00 PM: Welcome Drinks, Introductions & Food
DAY TWO
8:30 AM: Morning Yoga & Breakfast
10:30 AM: KATE BUNNY HAMPSON:
12:00 PM: Lunch
2:00 PM: IGOR DEMBA:
3:30 PM: T.B.A
5:00 PM: Peak District Walk and Breakout Sessions
6:00 PM: Portraits As Empathy
7:00 PM: Dinner
8:00 PM: Fireside Discussion: Real Talk on Creative Burnout.
DAY THREE
8:30 AM: Morning Yoga & Breakfast
10:30 AM: T.B.A:
12:00 PM: Lunch
2:00 PM: DEPARTMENT TWO
4:30 PM: Workshop / Shoot
6:00 PM: Portraits As Empathy
7:00 PM: Wild Dining Party & BBQ
8:00 PM: FINALE
DAY FOUR
10:00 AM: Check-Out of Rooms
Gather your belongings and say goodbye to your accommodation.
Leave your luggage in the designated storage area if needed.
11:00 AM: Departure
Final hugs and goodbyes before heading off, with an open invitation to stay connected and continue the conversations beyond the retreat.
your call to wyrd
READY TO JOIN US?
Wyrd Retreat is a rare chance to surround yourself with like-minded makers who get it. Without the need for flashy presentations or ego-driven workshops.. Where raw conversations, real insights, and building connections that last far beyond the retreat itself all happen.
With limited tickets available and spots set to fill fast, now’s the time to secure your place.
Don’t miss out on being part of something truly different. book your spot today and take a step toward reigniting your creative fire.
