READING RETREATS IN NATURE
WHAT ARE CHAPTER 34 RETREATS?
Chapter 34 Retreats grew out of our independent bookshop, Chapter 34, in Shoreham-by-Sea. They take what already happens inside the shop (the reading, the recommendations, the conversations) and carry it out into landscapes where time slows down and talk goes deeper.
We run two kinds of retreat: day retreats, which give you a single unhurried day away, and multi-day retreats, where you stay with us and settle into a slower rhythm. Every retreat is set in nature, centred on reading, and built around slowing down and taking stock.
What to expect
No two retreats are the same. What we offer depends on where we are and whether you’re joining us for a day or staying for several, so each retreat listing sets out exactly what’s included. Across our retreats, you can expect some or all of the following:
- Carefully curated book clubs
- Afternoon book chats
- Time to read without distractions
- Time spent outdoors in restorative landscapes
- Saunas and wild swimming, where the location allows
- Shared meals
- Unstructured time to rest, wander or simply be
- A small group of like-minded readers
- Hosting by Kelly and Carmen from the shop
WHAT MAKES OUR RETREATS DIFFERENT?
Reading, never forced. Books are at the heart of every retreat, but reading is always an invitation, not an obligation. Most retreats are framed by one or two book club gatherings, depending on the length of the retreat and its theme. Your books will reach you ahead of time or on the day, and each retreat listing explains how that works.
Nature. Every retreat takes place somewhere restorative, whether forest, coast or countryside. We choose our venues for their stillness and their ability to help you rest.
Slowness, built in. Our itineraries are gentle and carefully planned, with plenty of free time. There’s no pressure to perform wellness.
Community, not a tour. Each retreat is a small, temporary community, hosted with the same care that shapes everything we do at Chapter 34.
UPCOMING READING RETREATS
Contact us
CHAPTER 34 is an independent bookshop in the heart of Shoreham-By-Sea on the south coast. We are here for everyone and anyone that loves to read and will encourage you to be open minded in your book choices.
We stock books covering a huge variety of subjects alongside new releases and prize winners. Our stock changes frequently so our regulars never get bored.