A VIRTUAL WALK THROUGH HISTORY: WRITING CREATIVELY ABOUT THE PAST 

The Open University is hosting a creative writing workshop exploring lost histories and identity along the south coast of the Isle of Wight. The workshop, A Virtual Walk Through History: Writing Creatively About the Past - free of charge, open to anyone - will take place on 22 January, 2026, 5.30 to 7.30pm, at Boojum & Snark on Sandown High Street.

Open University Senior Lecturer Emily Bullock explained, “writers will be invited to think about life on the Island, past and present. Through writing exercises inspired by coastal walks, historical documents, and lost memories, we’ll explore how the history of place can shape our writing.”

The workshop led by Open University instructors will enable writers of all abilities to experience a virtual walk along the coastline and through history, without leaving the warmth of Boojum & Snark.

“No prior writing experience is needed. We only ask that you bring your curiosity, a notebook, and a willingness to explore,” Dr Samuel Sargeant, Postgraduate Convenor for English and Creative Writing at the Open University said.

While this event is free of charge, please email Emily Bullock to book your place - emily.bullock@open.ac.uk.