This full-day facilitated session introduces groups to key aspects of Gothic writing through discussion, short Gothic texts, writing prompts and creative activities.

The session weaves literary texts together with stories from Newstead Abbey’s history and its residents, brought to life through a tour of selected spaces and rooms within the house. An excellent example of Gothic Revival architecture and design, Newstead Abbey is filled with atmospheric spaces, intriguing histories and ghost stories. The session also explores Lord Byron’s connections to the Gothic, including his association with vampire literature.

The session explores:

• The Fantastic
• Terror vs. Horror
• Classic Gothic tropes and conventions
• Examples from Gothic literature

The group then has the opportunity to develop their own piece of Gothic writing, before sharing their work in the atmospheric cloisters — the oldest part of the house.

Duration: 4 hours | 10.30am–2.30pm
Cost per session: £12 per pupil, minimum charge of 25 pupils, max group size 32 pupils

Key Stage: 3

Curriculum options:

Links to GCSE English Language and Literature