with Lucy Atkins and Claire Fuller

 Tuesday 14th April 2026 in Winchester, Hampshire

Have you started writing a novel but now you’re confused? Unsure? Bogged down? Or just want to finish?

Join two bestselling authors for an expert-led one-day Novel Writing Masterclass in Winchester, Hampshire.

Following their successful, sold-out masterclass in 2025, Oxford University Creative Writing tutor and author, Lucy Atkins, and Costa Prize Winning author and creative writing teacher, Claire Fuller are once again teaching one-day novel writing masterclass.

What makes this Novel Writing Masterclass so unique? 

Creative writing courses can be, at best, underwhelming – at worst, downright misleading. This one-day masterclass is different.  Lucy and Claire not only have extensive experience teaching Creative Writing at the very highest level, they have a proven track record as published authors of bestselling, critically-acclaimed, award-winning novels.

In short, they know what makes a good book – and they know how to teach you!  

With ten published novels between them, they also understand how complex and difficult writing can be. This masterclass, which takes place in central Winchester, Hampshire, offers a unique opportunity to learn from and ask questions of two experienced writers and Creative Writing tutors. For this reason, places are strictly limited to 14.

Who is this Masterclass for? 

This day is aimed specifically at writers who have started writing a novel but not yet finished. 

You will learn to:

• Understand how a plot that builds can move your writing forward
• Create compelling characters
• Analyse your first 30 pages and see what is and isn’t working
• Master the all-important skill of self-editing 
• Prepare your novel so that is is ready to send out to literary agents

You’ll leave inspired and energised with a toolbox of practical tips, strategies and ideas that you can apply to your own work. And perhaps most importantly, you’ll gain renewed enthusiasm, energy and a sense of creative direction. 

About Lucy
Lucy teaches on the Creative Writing Masters degree at the University of Oxford. She is the author of five novels, including the bestselling Magpie Lane, and most recently Windmill Hill, a summer book pick for both the Guardian and the Observer. Find Lucy’s ‘Talking About Writing’ sessions with Claire and other well-known authors on Instagram @lucyatkinswriter. 

About Claire
Claire is the author of five novels including the Costa Novel Prize-winning and Women’s Prize-shortlisted novel, Unsettled Ground. Her sixth novel, Hunger and Thirst, will be published in May 2026. She has taught creative writing for many years for various organisations including The Women’s Prize, Arvon, literary festivals and creative writing academies. Her teaching is said to be fun but also very practical, so that students leave with concrete methods for improving their own writing. Follow Claire on Instagram.

What previous Novel Writing Masterclass students said about the day

“I was particularly interested in the Plotting and Character modules and seeing these elements really being broken down. It was great to see the plot/shape of a novel being explained visually on the flipchart. It made me aware of how I should be approaching these areas in my own writing.“

“I just wanted to say a huge thank you for yesterday’s brilliant and inspiring workshop. You both put so much thought and energy and generosity (sharing your knowledge) into it.“

“Such a privilege to be able to learn so much from two authors I admire immensely, especially as I’m just setting out on this journey. You should both be very proud of how the day went and I really appreciate all the thought and work you put into creating the content. I thought you both worked really well together and split up the modules well so we weren’t listening to one voice for too long at a time.“

“A big thank you to you both for your time and the inspiration from the course.“

Further information

This intensive day is structured around mini workshops taught by both Claire and Lucy, each including writing exercises and time for discussion. There will be opportunities to put your questions to both tutors, and meet your fellow writers.

The price includes sustaining snacks, delicious cakes, hot drinks and a tasty lunch. 

The Arc is located in central Winchester only 10 minutes walk from the nearest large carpark (Tower Street), and also only 10 minutes walk from Winchester station. 

We look forward to welcoming you to our Masterclass!