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If you've ever said - One day I’ll write my story… that one day starts here...
If you've ever said - One day I’ll write my story… that one day starts here...
Life Story Retreat
Life Story Retreat
This isn’t just a workshop, it’s an immersive weekend retreat to jump-start your life story.
This isn’t just a workshop, it’s an immersive weekend retreat to jump-start your life story.
Attention anyone who’s ever said - One day I’ll write my story… that one day starts here.
Attention anyone who’s ever said - One day I’ll write my story… that one day starts here.
Life Story Retreat
Life Story Retreat
This isn’t just a workshop — it’s an immersive weekend retreat to jump-start your life story.
This isn’t just a workshop — it’s an immersive weekend retreat to jump-start your life story.
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Step into a creative space where reflection meets action. You’ll bring your memories to life through writing, storytelling, and filmed moments that capture your story in your authentic voice.
Life Story Retreat
Life Story Retreat
Accommodation & all meals included
£997
£997
Time left until next retreat starts...
- 46
DAYS - 10
HOURS - 31
MINUTES - 51
SECONDS
Early Bird £497 - Book by 31 Dec
Arrive Friday 3pm - 5 pm
Wrap up Sunday by 3pm
Wrap up Sunday by 3pm
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2026 Weekend Retreats
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2026 Upcoming Dates
30 January - 1 February
30 January - 1 February
27 February - 1 March
27 February - 1 March
20 March - 23 March
20 March - 23 March
8 May - 10 May
8 May - 10 May
12 June - 14 June
12 June - 14 June
17 July - 19 July
17 July - 19 July
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Presented by
Suke Ridler
Tech Assistance
Stephen Hogben
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Presented by
Anna Woolliscroft
Event Co-ordinator
Alice Woods
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Come as you are
No preparation needed - just bring your memories (and maybe a shoebox of photos or an old VHS tape) along with your laptop and smart phone. You bring your life and we'll help you capture it!
No preparation needed - just bring your memories (and maybe a shoebox of photos or an old VHS tape) along with your laptop and smart phone. You bring your life and we'll help you capture it!
Relax and stay awhile
Everything’s taken care of...Your meals and two nights’ accommodation are included in the full weekend experience. A small supplement may apply depending on your chosen room type.
Everything’s taken care of...Your meals and two nights’ accommodation are included in the full weekend experience. A small supplement may apply depending on your chosen room type.
Small, supportive, and personal
With only eight participants, you’ll have time to reflect, connect, and receive one-to-one support. This intimate setting gives you the space to focus — and the confidence to keep capturing your life story long after the weekend ends.
With only eight participants, you’ll have time to reflect, connect, and receive one-to-one support. This intimate setting gives you the space to focus — and the confidence to keep capturing your life story long after the weekend ends.
Bringing someone else?
A partner or friend is warmly welcome to join you for meals and breaks. While you’re in sessions, they can explore the beautiful Peak District — walking the hills, visiting Buxton and Bakewell, or enjoying peaceful moments in nature.
If they’d like to join in and do their Life Story alongside you, we offer a special rate for two participants — a wonderful way to share the experience together.
A partner or friend is warmly welcome to join you for meals and breaks. While you’re in sessions, they can explore the beautiful Peak District — walking the hills, visiting Buxton and Bakewell, or enjoying peaceful moments in nature.
If they’d like to join in and do their Life Story alongside you, we offer a special rate for two participants — a wonderful way to share the experience together.
Life Story Retreat
Life Story Retreat
Accommodation & all meals included
£997
£997
Early Bird - £497
Book by 31 December
Book by 31 December
Arrive Friday 3pm - 5 pm
Wrap up Sunday by 3pm
Wrap up Sunday by 3pm
2026 Weekend Retreats
2026 Upcoming Dates
30 January - 1 February
27 February - 1 March
20 March - 23 March
8 May - 10 May
12 Jun - 14 Jun
17 July - 19 July
Presented by
Presented by
Anna Woolliscroft
Suke Ridler
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Tech Assistance
Event Co-ordinator
Stephen Hogben
Alice Woods
Come as you are
No preparation needed - just bring your memories (and maybe a shoebox of photos or an old VHS tape) along with your laptop and smart phone. You bring your life and we'll help you capture it!
No preparation needed - just bring your memories (and maybe a shoebox of photos or an old VHS tape) along with your laptop and smart phone. You bring your life and we'll help you capture it!
Relax and stay awhile
Everything’s taken care of
Your meals and two nights’ accommodation are included in the full weekend experience. A small supplement may apply depending on your chosen room type.
Everything’s taken care of
Your meals and two nights’ accommodation are included in the full weekend experience. A small supplement may apply depending on your chosen room type.
Small, supportive, and personal
With only eight participants, you’ll have time to reflect, connect, and receive one-to-one support. This intimate setting gives you the space to focus — and the confidence to keep capturing your life story long after the weekend ends.
With only eight participants, you’ll have time to reflect, connect, and receive one-to-one support. This intimate setting gives you the space to focus — and the confidence to keep capturing your life story long after the weekend ends.
Bringing someone else?
A partner or friend is warmly welcome to join you for meals and breaks. While you’re in sessions, they can explore the beautiful Peak District — walking the hills, visiting Buxton and Bakewell, or enjoying peaceful moments in nature.
If they’d like to join in and do their Life Story alongside you, we offer a special rate for two participants — a wonderful way to share the experience together.
A partner or friend is warmly welcome to join you for meals and breaks. While you’re in sessions, they can explore the beautiful Peak District — walking the hills, visiting Buxton and Bakewell, or enjoying peaceful moments in nature.
If they’d like to join in and do their Life Story alongside you, we offer a special rate for two participants — a wonderful way to share the experience together.
Here are what people are saying...
Here are what people are saying...
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
I didn't even realise there were this many ways to journal... hearing from others has really helped me realise the importance of pausing and focusing on yourself.
LB
Journalling Workshop
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
The Memory Jars are are a bit like a memory box; but they also help order memories to tell your story without even having to think, Brilliant!
Sally Goodman
Life Story Writer
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
I thought my life was too boring for a story… turns out my kids loved it. It was so easy with the Memory Jars and I can keep adding to it!
Andy Price
My LifeJars User
Here are what people are saying...
Here are what people are saying...
Jump-start your life story
Jump-start your life story
Your story matters, and there’s no better time to begin!
Your story matters, and there’s no better time to begin!
What to expect...
What to expect...
This hands-on retreat gives you the tools, time and encouragement to start capturing your story , in your own words, photos and voice - to build a legacy that lasts.
With time to reflect, write, and explore, you’ll reconnect with your past and rediscover what makes your life uniquely yours. You'll...
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Break your story into manageable themes so it never feels overwhelming.
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Learn gentle journalling techniques for authentic self-expression.
check
Digitise treasured memories from photos, videos, old tapes you bring with you and make them part of your story.
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Discover simple, free tools to scan, crop and record your memories.
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Leave with confidence and clarity, knowing you can keep adding to your story over time.
💛You’ll walk away with a new sense of peace and pride, knowing your story will live on, in your own voice.
The workshop is limited to 8 participants, so we can ensure you have as much help as you need to leave feeling confident that you can finish capturing your story so far, and throughout your life.
Jump-start your
life story
Jump-start your
life story
Your story matters, and there’s no better time to begin!
Your story matters, and there’s no better time to begin!
What to expect...
What to expect...
This hands-on retreat gives you the tools, time and encouragement to start capturing your story , in your own words, photos and voice - to build a legacy that lasts.
With time to reflect, write, and explore, you’ll reconnect with your past and rediscover what makes your life uniquely yours.
You'll...
check
Break your story into manageable themes so it never feels overwhelming.
check
Learn gentle journalling techniques for authentic self-expression.
check
Digitise treasured memories from photos, videos, old tapes you bring with you and make them part of your story.
check
Discover simple, free tools to scan, crop and record your memories.
check
Leave with confidence and clarity, knowing you can keep adding to your story over time.
💛You’ll walk away with a new sense of peace and pride, knowing your story will live on, in your own voice.
The workshop is limited to 8 participants, so we can ensure you have as much help as you need to leave feeling confident that you can finish capturing your story so far, and throughout your life.
What not to expect...
What not to expect...
This is not an academic writing class or a novel writing workshop.
This is not an academic writing class or a novel writing workshop.
There are no classrooms, structured writing classes, grammar lessons or red pens - and we won't be telling you what to do!
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No preparation needed - come along with your memories, and your sense of humour.
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No critique - just gentle guidance to help you start capturing your words, photos, voice & videos.
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No pressure to share - you're not obliged to share your work, this is your journey to start your life story.
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No party atmosphere - although the weekend will be enjoyable with the occasion to chat and encourage your fellow story writers.
Programme
Programme
FRIDAY
FRIDAY
Arrive, Settle, Begin
Arrive, Settle, Begin
Friday from 3pm - Arrival
Arrival at Litton Mill, enjoy tea or coffee, settle in and enjoy the surrounds.
5.00pm Session 1 - Introductions
Welcome, meet your hosts and fellow storytellers, and set your intentions for the weekend.
6.00pm Session 2 - How to...
Discover the Life Story Writer System — a simple, reassuring structure to begin shaping your memories.
7.00pm - Dinner
Savour a relaxed dinner at the Mill and enjoy friendly conversation to close the evening, including how the MIll is connected to Charles Dickens!
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SATURDAY
SATURDAY
Reflect, Create, Explore
Reflect, Create, Explore
Saturday 7.30am - Breakfast
A simple start to the day — think toast, pastries, fruit, and hot drinks.
8.30am Session 3 - First Memories
Anna guides you through writing your first childhood summary with prompts and support.
Tea/coffee comfort break
10.30pm Session 4 - Tech Set-Up
Set up your My LifeJars online vault, upload your first written memory, and capture photos or videos from your past.
Saturday 12.30pm - Lunch
Expect homemade-style soups, fresh rolls, and something sweet to finish.
1.30pm - Session 5 - Reflection
Draw inspiration from nature to guide you to draw inspiration from nature to reflect, reconnect with your sense of self your life’s challenges and triumphs.
2.30pm Session 6 - Nature Walk
Step outside to the stunning surroundings of Litton Mill and Tideswell Dale. Reflect, write, and record memories inspired by place: Wooden Bridges over the river - Industrial Relics - Railway Tunnels - Under Arches - Stone Steps - Sculptures - Wildlife
Tea/coffee available throughout afternoon
4.30pm Session 7 - Memories
A practical session around the table — scanning photos, digitising tapes, and learning how to continue at home.
6.00pm Session 8 - Gold
A relaxed round-up session to close the day — share a funny childhood memory, reflect on any golden nuggets, and ask any questions before we finish for the day.
7.00pm Pub Dinner
After the day’s sessions, enjoy a gentle walk to The Anglers Rest, the local pub — good food, great company, and a chance to unwind.
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SUNDAY
SUNDAY
Capture, Edit, Celebrate!
Capture, Edit, Celebrate!
Sunday 7.30am Breakfast
Ease into the morning with a simple continental breakfast of toast, pastries, fruit, and hot drinks.
8.30am Session 9 - Filming
Record a video of yourself sharing a recent life event. Use a simple teleprompter or speak naturally with photos as prompts. Practise speaking naturally and confidently.
Tea/coffee comfort break
10.30am Session 10 - Easy Editing
Learn to edit your clips using free, beginner-friendly tools. Trim, add titles, adjust light and sound, and combine photos or short videos.
12.30pm Lunch -
Jacket potatoes with tasty toppings, side salad, and dessert.
1.30pm Session 11 - Your Story, Your Way
Practise editing your own short clip and polish your story until it feels personal and genuine.
2.30pm Session 12 - It's a Wrap
As we come together we’ll reflect on what the weekend has sparked — sharing key takeaways, insights, and valuing the new friendships made along the way.
Keep building, organising, and protecting your memories long after the retreat ends. Leave inspired, equipped, and ready to keep your story growing — one chapter at a time.
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Litton Mill
Alongside Monsal Trail
Millers Dale, Tideswell Dale
Millers Dale, Tideswell Dale
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Litton Mill
Phoenix Building
Nr Buxton
Derbyshire SK17 8SW
Phoenix Building
Nr Buxton
Derbyshire SK17 8SW
Meet Your Presenters..
Meet Your Presenters..
Anna Woolliscroft - Journalling & Creative Writing Coach, Nature-Connected Writing Facilitator, Podcast Host'
Anna Woolliscroft - Journalling & Creative Writing Coach, Nature-Connected Writing Facilitator, Podcast Host'
Anna Woolliscroft is a journalling coach and wellbeing advocate who guides people in capturing and creating the stories that matter most. Through gentle, joyful techniques, she helps participants unlock what's already within them to bring their life stories into focus.
Anna specialises in making the writing process accessible rather than overwhelming, using prompts and approaches that honour different personality types and comfort levels with creative expression.
At 40, Anna found herself heartbroken and disconnected after her 13-year relationship ended unexpectedly. Through consistent journalling and building self-awareness, she transformed her life and rediscovered genuine joy. Today, as a certified Journal to the Self Instructor with a Master's in Creative Writing and Wellbeing and Level 2 training in counselling skills, Anna understands that the most meaningful writing comes from honest self-reflection, gentle encouragement, and techniques that make the process feel natural rather than daunting.
Suke Ridler - Creator of My LifeJars & the encrypted vault that protects life-stories and what matters
Suke Ridler - Creator of My LifeJars & the encrypted vault that protects life-stories and what matters
After surviving a near-death experience, Suke knew she couldn’t leave her life in a mess. No one knew her wishes. Her story was unwritten. Her important details? Scattered. That terrifying realisation became the seed for something powerful.
Fuelled by purpose (and a whole lot of heart), Suke pulled together a world-class team of developers, cybersecurity specialists and design thinkers — and went on to build My LifeJars.
Today, thousands of people use My LifeJars to sort their life admin, protect their wishes, and preserve the stories that matter, so their loved ones are never left in a mess.
Meet Your Presenters..
Meet Your Presenters..
Anna Woolliscroft - Journalling & Creative Writing Coach, Nature-Connected Writing Facilitator, Podcast Host'
Anna Woolliscroft - Journalling & Creative Writing Coach, Nature-Connected Writing Facilitator, Podcast Host'
Anna Woolliscroft is a journalling coach and wellbeing advocate who guides people in capturing and creating the stories that matter most. Through gentle, joyful techniques, she helps participants unlock what's already within them to bring their life stories into focus.
Anna specialises in making the writing process accessible rather than overwhelming, using prompts and approaches that honour different personality types and comfort levels with creative expression.
At 40, Anna found herself heartbroken and disconnected after her 13-year relationship ended unexpectedly. Through consistent journalling and building self-awareness, she transformed her life and rediscovered genuine joy.
Today, as a certified Journal to the Self Instructor with a Master's in Creative Writing and Wellbeing and Level 2 training in counselling skills, Anna understands that the most meaningful writing comes from honest self-reflection, gentle encouragement, and techniques that make the process feel natural rather than daunting.
Suke Ridler - Creator of My LifeJars & the encrypted vault that protects life-stories and what matters
Suke Ridler - Creator of My LifeJars & the encrypted vault that protects life-stories and what matters
After surviving a near-death experience, Suke knew she couldn’t leave her life in a mess. No one knew her wishes. Her story was unwritten. Her important details? Scattered. That terrifying realisation became the seed for something powerful.
Fuelled by purpose (and a whole lot of heart), Suke pulled together a world-class team of developers, cybersecurity specialists and design thinkers — and went on to build My LifeJars.
Today, thousands of people use My LifeJars to sort their life admin, protect their wishes, and preserve the stories that matter, so their loved ones are never left in a mess.
Here is what people are saying...
Here is what people are saying...
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
I really enjoyed the course and found it beneficial in every way. I hope others will get the opportunity to benefit from your work, passion, and knowledge."
JG
Journalling Workshop
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
The prompts from Life Story Writer got me thinking about stuff I hadn't thought about in years, so glad I gave it a go, fabulous!
Sarah Cross
Life Story Writer
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
Never thought I’d write down my life story, but My LifeJars made it super simple and fun, plus I got to organise all my photos and videos.
Paul Oliver
My LifeJars User
Here is what people are saying...
Here is what people are saying...
View Your Accommodation
View Your Accommodation
Full weekend accommodation and all meals are included. Options vary by room type; details and any small supplements are confirmed after booking.
Stanchion Pipe King Bedroom
with private ensuite
Waterwheel Double + Single Bedroom
with shared bathroom
Blincoe Double Bedroom
with private ensuite
Further Litton Mill Accommodation
with private ensuite
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Bringing a Partner
Partners are warmly welcome to join all meals and breaks. While you’re in session, they can explore the scenic Peak District — with mapped walking routes and nearby villages to visit.
Where space allows, partners are welcome to sit in on sessions. A special rate is available for couples both writing their life stories.
Further Accommodation
Further accommodation options may vary depending on the retreat. You’ll receive full details once you’ve booked.
Requests
Please note your accommodation preference and dietary requirements on the booking form.
Parking
Free parking is available for all guests.
View Your Accommodation
View Your Accommodation
Full weekend accommodation and all meals are included. Options vary by room type; details and any small supplements are confirmed after booking depending on your preference and availability.
Stanchion Pipe King Bedroom
with private ensuite
Waterwheel Double + Single Bedroom
with shared bathroom
Blincoe Double Bedroom
with private ensuite
Further Litton Mill Accommodation
bathrooms vary
arrow_drop_down_circle
Divider Text
Bringing a Partner
Partners are warmly welcome to join all meals and breaks. While you’re in session, they can explore the scenic Peak District — with mapped walking routes and nearby villages to visit. Where space allows, partners are welcome to sit in on sessions.
A special rate is available for 2 people both writing their life stories and sharing a room.
Further Accommodation
Further accommodation options may vary depending on the retreat. You’ll receive full details to confirm your choice, when you’ve confirmed your place on the retreat.
Requests
Please note your accommodation preference and any dietary requirements on the booking form.
Parking
Free parking is available for all guests.
Reserve a Life Story Weekend Retreat
Reserve a Life Story Weekend Retreat
Accommodation and all meals included
Accommodation and all meals included
£997
£997
2026 Retreats - Early Bird Special Book Before 31 Dec 2025
£500 saving with Coupon Code: EARLY26
Two Life Story Participants* – Shared Room Supplement - £497
For two people sharing the same room, both taking part in the retreat writing their Life Story. Includes full access to all sessions, materials and meals.
Accompanying Person* - Shared Room Supplement - £97
Supplement for someone accompanying a person writing their Life Story, sharing the same room. Includes all meals.
*Additional people by arrangement
A £197 Deposit secures a place
Full payment is due two weeks before the retreat. Any coupon code savings will be applied to the final balance.
Payment Plans
Payment plans are available for the remaining balance, depending on how much time is left before the selected retreat.
Selecting a Retreat
In Step 2, select the retreat you've chosen and enter the details—including any coupon code and whether it's a gift. If you're giving it as a gift, you can leave the date open so your guest can confirm later.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Your questions answered...
Your questions answered...
Not at all! This retreat is about capturing a life story in your words. Honesty matters and your authentic voice more than grammar.
Whether it’s your mum, dad, someone special—or you—attending the retreat, here’s all that’s needed:No prep is needed—just come as you are, with omfortable clothing, a laptop or smartphone, and any meaningful photos, letters, or keepsakes that might spark memories. Even an old VHS tape, if they'd like to learn how to make digital clips from it.
Nope. Sharing is optional. Your story is yours to capture, at your own pace, in your own way. You do not have to chat about your memories with the other participants if you don't want to.
Absolutely. We provide prompts, guidance, and hands-on sessions to help memories flow naturally.
Yes — we’ll show simple ways to digitise photos, video tapes, plus easy editing tools so a life story lives on.
Yes — the Life Story will be available to view online and can be printed as a book.
It’s reflective and creative, but not a substitute for therapy. If emotions arise, we understand and suggest professional support is sought which can complement the life story journey.
With just eight participants, everyone gets one-to-one guidance, group encouragement, and practical tools to keep a story growing.
Great! Bring them along and we will include them in your life story. You’ll get fresh ideas to add to what you already have and confidence to record yourself narrating your memories.
Let us know when you book if you have any special requirements. We’ll take care of your meals and accommodate nost dietary requirements. However, we are sorry that it is not possible for us to cater for people with celiac or nut allegies.
Accommodation for two nights is included in the retreat cost. We have various rooms available on the reservation form. Let us know what you prefer for you or your gift recipient, and we’ll sort you out in discussion with you. The retreat is in a mobility-friendly layout space, although we are unable to accommodate wheelchairs for movement within the appartment.
Yes! Plus ones are welcome for meals and breaks . While you’re in sessions, they can explore the Peak District or if numbers allow sit in sessions and observe. Alternatively a special rate is available if you both want to cpture your life story.
Yes — it makes a wonderful gift.You can gift the retreat to your mum, your dad, both of them together, someone special and join them yourself if you for precious time to connect and reflect. Suitable for all confidence levels - They don’t need to be “tech-savvy.”If they can use simple things like FaceTime or a basic Word document, they’ll be absolutely fine.We teach easy tools during the retreat, and they can keep using them at home to continue capturing their story. Mobility-friendly layout - There are four shallow steps up to the apartment. Once inside, everything is on one level with no internal steps, which helps if they have mobility concerns. A gentle, guided experience - The retreat is designed to be supportive, relaxed, and confidence-building — perfect for parents who want to preserve their story, even if they’ve never done anything like this before.
local_phone
Got a question or want to book your place by phone? Call us on 330 111 8853
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Prefer WhatsApp? Send us a message on 07471118333 and we’ll reply as soon as we can.
email
Prefer email? Drop us a note at team@mylifejars.com and we’ll get right back to you.
local_phone
Got a question or want to book your place by phone?
Call us on 330 111 8853
chat_bubble
Prefer WhatsApp? Send us a message on 07471118333
We’ll reply as soon as we can.
email
Use email? Drop us a note at team@mylifejars.com
We’ll get right back to you.
Memories Matter!
Memories Matter!
Any life story deserves to be heard, in a person's own words and voice
Any life story deserves to be heard, in a person's own words and voice
This is your chance to begin...
This is your chance to begin...
To write, reflect and leave a life of love, wisdom and laughter for you, your family and generations to come.
To write, reflect and leave a life of love, wisdom and laughter for you, your family and generations to come.
© 2025 MyLifeJars ALL RIGHTS RESERVED