Voice and Verse Workshop: Strokes of Poetry
Step into the world of Westminster Abbey's memorials as we explore their history and emotional impact through poetry.
Join us for a unique poetry workshop where we will explore the emotions stirred by the Abbey's memorials and monuments.
As we journey through this historic space, we'll reflect on how the Abbey has inspired poets over the centuries and how their verses capture the essence of this significant place. We’ll examine how the various spaces and monuments evoke a range of emotions that add complexity to the Abbey's layered history.
Whether you’re a seasoned poet or new to writing, this workshop will guide you in channelling your thoughts and feelings into poetic form. Through guided exercises, you’ll learn to use poetry as a means of self-expression, transforming your impressions and words into creative works inspired by the Abbey’s enduring legacy.
This event will be comprised of a facilitated tour of the Abbey, a short break, followed by an hour-long poetry writing workshop with poet Sammy Weaver.
Please bring your own notebook and writing utensils.
About Sammy Weaver
Sammy Weaver is a writer of poetry and creative nonfiction based in West Yorkshire. Her poetry and prose have appeared in The Moth, The Irish Times, Colorado Review, The Island Review, The Clearing and Anthropocene, and have been anthologised widely. She won The Moth Magazine’s Nature Writing competition in 2020. She was shortlisted for a Northern Writers’ Award for poetry and Nine Arches Press' Primers scheme in 2021. Sammy's pamphlet Angola, America (Seren) won the Mslexia Poetry Pamphlet Prize 2021 and was shortlisted for a Michael Marks Poetry Award 2023.
Ticketing information
This event does not include entry to Westminster Abbey. We recommend looking at the Visit us pages to plan a visit during opening hours.
Age suitability
This event is for adults and young people over the age of 16, please see our family pages for information and events to explore this theme as a family.
Meeting location
This event will meet at the entrance to the cloister in Dean’s Yard. Specific instructions with a map will be sent to participants nearer to the event.
Access and security
Please have your ticket ready to show our staff (either printed or on your mobile phone).
Please be aware that this session is taking place in a room that is accessed via a steep staircase.
The Abbey is committed to creating inclusive and accessible events for all. If you have any access requirements or questions about your visit, please contact us when booking: [email protected]
Filming and photography
Please note that filming and sound recording are not permitted at the Abbey. See our photography policy for more information.
Voice and Verse season
This event is part of the Voice and Verse season. Join us in October and November as we celebrate the power of words and stories penned by historic and emerging poets.
