The first Quantum ARC Writing Retreat took place at The Burn, Aberdeenshire, on 30 August – 1 September 2026.

Despite only being a couple of hours from Glasgow, it felt like we were in another world, surrounded by a stunning natural environment with trees, nature paths and, unsurprisingly a burn running through the grounds! It was a truly an ideal setting which inspired the dedicated writing time.

Everyone arrived in the early evening, and after settling in got straight into getting to know each other with a speed networking event. After dinner, many attendees took advantage of The Burn’s game room, playing some snooker, darts and table tennis.

The next morning, we got straight into the writing. There were several sessions, with plenty of tea and coffee breaks in between, of course. The Programme was flexible, so everyone could write all day if they chose. Alternatively, some people attended a Fellowship Writing session, led by Quantum ARC co-lead Dr Sam Bayliss. Sam gave a lot of really helpful advice on the fellowship/grant writing process and answered questions.  

After lunch many went on a group walk through the grounds to stretch the legs and recharge for some more writing in the afternoon.

In the second evening, after dinner, we held a quiz covering a range of local / Scottish trivia, and general knowledge. And then onto the games room for more snooker!

On the third and final day, there was a full morning to do more writing, with an option to share pieces of writing for peer review and feedback. There was such a range of productive work that took place, from grant calls, project proposals, fellowships, thesis and conference papers. We really look forward to hearing from attendees about the outcome of any applications or papers written at the Retreat.

Thank you so much to everyone who took part in the Quantum ARC Writing Retreat. We are so pleased with the feedback received, from which attendees’ highlights included the peaceful environment and the opportunity to interact and share ideas with other researchers. Thank you, also, to Goodenough College for hosting us and for showing such wonderful hospitality.

We look forward to hosting more retreats in the future. Stay tuned for what’s coming next!