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Memoir Writing in Whitestown House, Dublin
What to ExpectSaturday 30th May, 2026
10am - 4:pm
€120 / person: Guided Walk, Writing Session and Lunch.
The focus on the day is guided memoir writing with writer Jane Gormley. Jane is the founder of CRAICLY STORIES, an Irish storytelling project, and her debut memoir publication will be published with Mercier Press in late 2026. Seasonal lunch will be cooked by Kelly Keogh from Whitestown House.
Writing creatively from memory and experience is something that everyone can gain creative expression, release and joy from. Enjoying each other’s memories can also add perspectives and emotions that we may not have experienced ourselves, which is something that Jane feels is beneficial for us all, both as people and as writers. The day is designed to build connection to your surroundings, within the Whitestown Estate, and writing techniques using prompts on memoir writing as well as guidance on both techniques and ethics of memoir writing.
You’ll leave not only with a gorgeous day of new memories and writing connections, but also with inspiration, ideas and a story to work on!
WHO’S THIS FOR? Anyone who enjoys spending a creative, welcoming and informative day in a country estate. You do not need to be a professional writer / published writer to join this. There will be takeaways and learnings for everyone. 18+ years.
Whitestown House:
Set within 122 acres of stunning parkland and woodland just outside Dublin, Whitestown House boasts a rich history and heritage. The house and estate has roots tracing back to the 1600s, initially established by the Earl of Ormond and later expanded by the Hamilton-Woods family.
The estate is now undergoing a remarkable transformation and rejuvenation under the care of the Keogh Family. While preserving its atmosphere as a historic home, the Keoghs—Hazel, Aoife, and Kelly—are opening its doors to the public. They invite visitors to be part of their journey as they establish Whitestown House as a vibrant cultural venue.
The core of this transformation is conviviality, shared experiences, and openness, with the family trio collaborating on creative events and culinary experiences within their home. The reputation and atmosphere of cultivating creativity, art and connection is one to celebrate! Except crackling fires, candles along with a warm welcome and beautiful, seasonal dining experiences.
Our Memoir Writing Day will embrace and enjoy the estate, include a gentle walk with some memoir sharing, plus the use of prompts when we return to the fires of the reception rooms in Whitestown House for a guided writing session along with individual writing time.
The day will bring us towards a seasonal lunch in the dining room, prepared by Kelly Keogh, along with sharing of stories.
Writers will leave with a new set of writing tools, prompts, guidance on memoir writing, a first draft of a story and the skills to finish it, along with a new writing community. Plus, the relaxing, creative and inspiring experience of spending the day writing in the embrace of an Irish country home with fantastic welcoming guests and wonderful food.
Other Times to Write with CRAICLY
- JULY 2026 - A Month of Sundays! - Sunday Memoir Sessions on the farm , Kildare - Details in our EVENTS section
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Other Times to Write with CRAICLY - JULY 2026 - A Month of Sundays! - Sunday Memoir Sessions on the farm , Kildare - Details in our EVENTS section 〰️
