As an enthusiastic escape room aficionado, I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing some truly captivating and immersive adventures. One that stands out in particular is the thrilling challenge I encountered at Never Give Up Newcastle. This medieval-themed castle turned immersive experience hub has quickly become a must-visit destination for those seeking a unique and unforgettable team-building activity.
Descending into a Whimsical World
The journey to Never Give Up Newcastle already sets the stage for an unforgettable experience. As I approached the unassuming double gates, hidden amidst the surrounding trees, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of anticipation and curiosity. Punching in the code provided, the gates swung open, beckoning me to follow the winding, leaf-strewn driveway deeper into the valley.
Exploring the Castle Grounds
The first sign that this was no ordinary escape room experience was the medieval castle itself, its red stone walls radiating a warm, inviting glow in the late afternoon light. As I rounded the final bend, the full grandeur of the keep came into view, perched atop the gently sloping terrain. Behind it, the valley dropped away into a sway of dark green pines, creating a sense of isolation and seclusion that only added to the enchanting atmosphere.
Discovering the Rabbit Warren of Libraries
Upon entering the castle, I was immediately struck by the sheer number of libraries and reading nooks scattered throughout the various rooms and corridors. From the modern, purpose-built library building to the cozy Studio library with its expansive views, and even the chilly, atmospheric Keep library, the castle seemed to be a veritable rabbit warren of books and literary treasure troves.
Settling into My Room
My accommodations for the stay were equally delightful, with each bedroom named after a famous writer. My room, the Bronte, was a cozy and comfortable retreat, complete with a desk, chair, and ample space to spread out my work. The plumbing was a delightful mix of old and new, with the deep, claw-foot bathtub providing the perfect spot to soak and ponder my next literary masterpiece.
Feasting on Delicious Cuisine
One of the highlights of my stay was undoubtedly the food. The castle’s chef, Ruth, provided an incredible array of delectable dishes, from hearty soups and sandwiches for lunch to decadent two-course dinners in the evenings. I found myself constantly amazed by the flavors and presentation, and I may have indulged in a few too many second helpings during my time there.
The Silence of Creation
Perhaps the most striking aspect of the residency, however, was the rule of silence that permeated the castle during the day. From the end of breakfast until just before dinner, an atmosphere of profound quiet reigned, with each of us immersed in our own creative pursuits. This stillness was both liberating and occasionally challenging, as I had to adapt my usual chatty tendencies to the serene environment.
Overcoming the Hurdles
Despite the tranquility, the residency was not without its hurdles. As an enthusiastic but occasionally disorganized writer, I found myself struggling at times to make the most of the uninterrupted time and space. Overpacking on warm clothing and underpacking on lighter layers was an early misstep, as I discovered the castle’s efficient heating system kept things surprisingly cozy.
Another challenge was finding the right balance between solitude and connection. While the silence during the day fostered deep focus, I found myself craving more social interaction during the evenings. Thankfully, the shared mealtimes and informal discussions in the Drawing Room provided the perfect opportunity to engage with my fellow writers, sharing our experiences and drawing inspiration from one another.
The Joys of Exploration
One of the greatest pleasures of the residency, however, was the opportunity to explore the castle’s stunning grounds. The Lady Walk, a clifftop path leading to the carved stone steps of Wallises Cave, offered breathtaking views and a chance to stretch my legs, while the gentler Circle Walk provided a scenic loop around the castle itself.
These forays into the surrounding woodland not only nourished my creative spirit but also allowed me to stumble upon unexpected delights, like the Pictish caves beneath the castle and the occasional sighting of deer roaming the grounds. It was during these moments of exploration that I found my mind truly opening up, making connections and sparking new ideas that would later find their way into my writing.
Embracing the Unexpected
Perhaps the most valuable lesson I took away from my time at Never Give Up Newcastle was the importance of embracing the unexpected. Whether it was the surprise of discovering a hidden library or the delight of stumbling upon a quirky historical detail, the castle seemed to constantly challenge my preconceptions and push me to approach my work in new and innovative ways.
Productive Contemplation
And while the initial pressure to produce a tangible volume of work during the residency was ever-present, I found that the combination of uninterrupted time, inspiration-fueling exploration, and rich discussions with my fellow writers ultimately led to a remarkably productive period. By the end of my stay, I had made significant progress on both my poetry collection and the early planning stages of a new novel, all while gaining a renewed sense of purpose and enthusiasm for my craft.
A Lasting Legacy
As I reluctantly bid farewell to the medieval castle and its enchanting grounds, I couldn’t help but feel a profound sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience such a unique and transformative residency. The legacy of Never Give Up Newcastle will undoubtedly continue to echo through my work, reminding me of the power of immersive environments to nurture creativity, challenge assumptions, and forge lasting connections with fellow writers.
For anyone seeking a truly remarkable escape room experience or an opportunity to immerse themselves in a world of literary inspiration, I cannot recommend Never Give Up Newcastle highly enough. It is a place that will stay with you long after the final page is turned, a testament to the power of embracing the unexpected and overcoming the hurdles that stand in the way of our creative passions.
