The Big Weekend is the OWPG’s annual gathering.
The Big Weekend provides a great opportunity for members to meet friends old and new,
to share experiences, learn new things and participate in the running of our Guild.
The next BW will be held at YHA Conwy on 2-5 October 2026
Where?
The YHA at Conwy – at the northern edge of the Snowdonia National Park (Parc Cenedlaethol Eryri).
The hostel is about ten minutes’ walk from the centre of the town, which is easily accessible by road or by train.
Conwy town and castle from hillside above (Image © Chiz Dakin)
When?
Friday 2 October to Monday 5 October 2025
What’s included?
The BW includes the Guild’s AGM on the Saturday evening followed by a drinks reception, three-course meal in The Hidden Chapel restaurant (courtesy of the Guild) and the annual awards ceremony.
New members are particularly welcome and you can take part in as many or as few activities as you like.
Accommodation?
Most accommodation will be in ensuite twin bed/bunk bed or triple bed rooms with a supplement for single occupancy. As usual, preference will be given to those staying for three nights, followed by those staying for two nights on Friday and Saturday.
For camper van guests, Conwy Holiday Park lies closest to the town (about a mile) and have good reviews (from Google Search). Campervan stays are NOT allowed overnight at the centre.
Cost?
Rates for staying at the centre are inclusive of breakfasts, packed lunches and evening meals and are £72.50 per person per night if sharing a two-bed room. Minimum of two nights.
Single supplements (limited number only) will be around £35 per person per night in a two-bed room (otherwise you’ll normally be expected to share).
Partners are welcome and will pay the same accommodation and food costs as members.
Most activities will be free, although some may incur an additional charge if you decide to take part. Castell Conwy and RSPB Conwy both charge visitors.
Non-residential guests who arrange their own accommodation elsewhere (including in campervans) can of course join in the day’s activities, with additional costs for hostel dinner (£14), breakfast (£6-£12), packed lunch £7.50) if required. You will also be charged a meeting room contribution of £2 per person.
Activities?
As ever, there’ll be a diverse programme of professional writing and photography workshops, and outdoor activities on offer.
Other attractions include a train ride to Blaenau Ffestiniog and onward on the Ffestiniog narrow-gauge railway, Zip World Titan, Europe’s longest zip wire, at Penrhyn Quarry, for braver members, and Llechwedd Slate Caverns.
Conwy itself is a fascinating town for a tour, with Castell Conwy, RSPB Conwy, and The Smallest House among must-sees.
A walk up Mynydd y Dref (Conwy Mountain 244m/801ft) and along the estuary, which can be started at the Youth Hostel. The walk also includes a short stretch of the Wales Coast Path. Amazing views and an Iron Age Hill Fort on the summit add to the delights of this walk. Six miles round trip.
An eight-mile drive into the Snowdonia National Park will take us to the edge of the Carneddau and the northern start for the Welsh “Munroes”, one or two of which might be bagged (eight-mile there-and-back hike, fine weather only).
The activities are being firmed up and the final programme will be released around August 21, when you’ll be invited to make your selections.
There will also be a book table again where you can display examples of your work and chat with authors / photographers.
Non members are welcome to take part in any of the activities listed except for the AGM as this is only open to members.
Dress Code?
There is no dress code!
AGM and Awards Ceremony.
As usual the Guild’s AGM will take place at 4:30pm on the Saturday and the annual Awards ceremony/dinner will take place on the Saturday evening.
A link to download AGM info will appear in due course.
Further Information/Booking forms – please login
This is for members only – please login if you can’t see the forms.