Surrey Poet Laureateship Launches New Poetry Hub at Leith Hill Place

Historic National Trust property becomes home to Surrey Poet Laureateship's newest creative community, bringing poetry, heritage and the Surrey Hills together.

The Surrey Poet Laureateship is delighted to celebrate the successful launch of its newest Poetry Hub at Leith Hill Place, marking an exciting milestone for the organisation as its first-ever hub hosted in partnership with a National Trust property.

Held within the historic former home of composer Ralph Vaughan Williams and surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes of the Surrey Hills, the inaugural session welcomed poets, writers, and creative minds for a morning of inspiration, reflection, and community. With sunshine pouring through the windows and spectacular views stretching across the countryside, it was difficult to imagine a more fitting setting for poetry.

The launch was attended by Surrey Poet Laureate Adam Gary, Laureateship Vice President Tori Monks, Mole Valley Vice Chair Councillor Hazel Watson, and Catherine McCusker, Visitor Operations and Experiences Manager for Surrey Hills East.

A Celebration of Poetry, Heritage and Community

The session began with a warm welcome from Councillor Hazel Watson, who spoke passionately about the importance of poetry, creativity, and community spaces that bring people together.

Her remarks highlighted the vital role that the arts play in strengthening communities, encouraging connection, and enriching everyday life. It set the perfect tone for a morning dedicated to creativity and shared experience.

Participants then took part in a range of writing activities led by our wonderful volunteer facilitator Ted Gooda, drawing inspiration from the stunning natural beauty that surrounds the property. The opportunity to write poetry while overlooking the Surrey Hills created a truly memorable experience.

Following in the Footsteps of Great Creatives

Leith Hill Place has long been a place of inspiration. Naturalist Charles Darwin conducted experiments here, while composer Ralph Vaughan Williams found creative inspiration within its walls. More recently, acclaimed film composer Hans Zimmer has also drawn inspiration from this remarkable location.

Reflecting on the launch, facilitator Ted Gooda said:

"What a treat to write and be inspired in the same location that naturalist Charles Darwin conducted experiments and composers Ralph Vaughan Williams and Hans Zimmer have found their muse! It feels like such a privilege to be working in this space. I'm already looking forward to the next gathering which will take place on the last Sunday of June. Fingers crossed for great summer weather again, so that we can head outside once more and soak up the stunning surroundings."

Creating a Buzzing Creative Community

The launch perfectly captured the atmosphere both the National Trust and Surrey Poet Laureateship hoped to create through the partnership.

Catherine McCusker reflected on the success of the morning:

"I'm so happy, it was such a wonderful vibe - exactly what we're trying to create at Leith Hill Place - a buzzing creative community."

That sense of community was evident throughout the session. New friendships were formed, poems were shared, ideas exchanged, and laughter filled the room. For many attendees, it was a reminder that poetry is at its most powerful when experienced together.

A Growing Movement Across Surrey

The launch of Leith Hill Place Poetry Hub represents another significant step forward for the Surrey Poet Laureateship's flagship Poetry Hub programme, which continues to expand across the county.

From libraries and community spaces to now a National Trust property, the hubs provide welcoming environments where people of all ages and experience levels can discover poetry, develop their craft, and connect with others through creativity.

Surrey Poet Laureate Adam Gary praised both the venue and the people who made the launch possible:

"The new Hub had everything that has made our flagship initiative so popular. Poetry Hubs have become known for their welcoming energy, warmth, passion, excitement and exploration. The energy in the room was fantastic, and it was great to see so many join us, all sharing a smile and laugh together.

I have to say, I love the setting that this Hub is taking place in. What a treat! Ted is a fantastic facilitator and poet and I know this Hub is going to thrive. Thank you to Catherine for giving us the opportunity to be here."

Looking Ahead

As the session drew to a close, participants left with notebooks full of new poems, fresh inspiration, and excitement for what comes next.

The launch demonstrated not only the enduring appeal of poetry, but also the importance of creating spaces where creativity, heritage, and community can meet. Surrounded by history, art, music, and one of Surrey's most beautiful landscapes, the new Leith Hill Place Poetry Hub has already established itself as a truly special addition to Surrey's cultural life.

Join Us

The Leith Hill Place Poetry Hub meets every other Sunday and welcomes writers of all abilities, from complete beginners to experienced poets.

To find out more about the Leith Hill Place Poetry Hub and our other Poetry Hubs across Surrey, visit:

surreypoetlaureateship.org/hubs

For more information about upcoming events, workshops and opportunities, visit surreypoetlaureateship.org or follow us on social media @SurreyPoetLaureate.