Rhyl Ladies Creative Writing Group Proves It’s Never Too Late to Start Writing

A friendly and welcoming creative writing group in Rhyl is showing that imagination has no age limit.

Based at Gorwel Newydd on West Parade, the ladies-only group meets weekly to write, share ideas and enjoy good company. With laughter, encouragement and plenty of tea and biscuits, the Rhyl Ladies Creative Writing Group has built a reputation for being as social as it is creative.

The group has one simple mission — to inspire women to write for fun.

Organised by Frances, the sessions take place every Friday at 10am and are open to local ladies of all ages and abilities. Whether someone has been writing for years or hasn’t put pen to paper since school, everyone is welcome.

One of the group’s long-standing members is Joan Withers, aged 90, who has been attending for several years. For Joan, the benefits go far beyond writing itself.

“It doesn’t matter whether you are a good writer,” she said. “The whole point is to come along, have fun and give your brain a workout!”

Each session follows a relaxed and supportive format. Members are invited — but never pressured — to read out their work from the previous week. The group then takes part in a shared writing exercise, with Frances providing a theme or prompt to spark inspiration.

From heartfelt memories to humorous short stories and imaginative fiction, the variety of writing reflects the diverse personalities in the room.

Cheryl, who particularly enjoys listening to others’ contributions, said: “It’s interesting how people’s imaginations go off in different directions!”

After the writing task, the group settles down for a chat over tea and biscuits, strengthening friendships and connections. Before leaving, members are given a new title or prompt to inspire their writing ahead of the following week’s session.

Pat, who joined recently, said she immediately felt at home. “There’s always something to smile about!” she said.

The group is currently encouraging new members to come along and give it a try. Importantly, it is completely free to attend, making it accessible to anyone who wants to get involved.

Long-term member Joan has a simple message for anyone considering joining: “Come along and have a drink and see what we get up to. There’s no pressure to read out your work if you don’t want to!”

From December to March, the group meets at Gorwel Newydd, 76–82 West Parade, Rhyl, gathering in the reception area each Friday at 10am. Between April and November, meetings move to Rhyl Women’s Centre on Water Street, ensuring the group remains active and accessible throughout the year.

Gorwel Newydd itself is a purpose-built independent living scheme for older people, offering a balance between independence and 24-hour on-site care and support when needed. The development is designed to promote social interaction and wellbeing, with modern, energy-efficient apartments and communal areas that encourage residents to connect.

Situated along the North Wales coastline, the scheme benefits from convenient transport links and nearby local amenities, making it easy for residents and visitors alike to attend activities such as the writing group.

For many of the women involved, the creative writing sessions offer more than just storytelling. They provide companionship, confidence and a reminder that creativity can flourish at any stage of life.

Because sometimes, all it takes to build community is one sentence.