There are few places in Britain more steeped in literary mystery than Greenway.
Tucked above the River Dart and surrounded by woodland, the former holiday home of Agatha Christie has long been regarded as one of Devon’s most magical houses - a secluded retreat where stories seem to linger in the walls long after the final page has turned.
Now, the celebrated estate is preparing to welcome a new generation of storytellers.
Exeter UNESCO City of Literature has announced the three international writers selected for its inaugural Greenway Residency, a creative programme bringing authors from across the world to the National Trust property for three weeks of writing, reflection and collaboration.
From Friday, September 25 to Friday, October 16, 2026, children’s author and illustrator Aining Wen, award-winning Australian writer Judith Rossell and Indian mystery novelist Dr Manjiri Prabhu will call Greenway home as they work on new projects inspired by Devon’s landscape, literary heritage and creative community.
The residency is designed to celebrate Exeter’s role within the UNESCO Cities of Literature network - a global cultural partnership the city joined in 2019 - while also shining a spotlight on Devon’s enduring connection to storytelling.
Competition for the residency was fierce, with 49 writers linked to 22 UNESCO Cities of Literature worldwide submitting applications.
For Aining Wen, whose illustrated children’s books have reached readers across the globe, the residency represents a chance to explore a new creative direction. Aining, who studied at the Cambridge School of Art and was named in the Forbes 30 Under 30 Asia list in 2021, said she hoped to continue developing a picture book project inspired by “story, illustrations, and music”.
“For me, this marks the beginning of a new chapter,” she said.
Judith Rossell, one of Australia’s best-known author-illustrators, arrives in Devon with an impressive catalogue behind her, including the bestselling Stella Montgomery trilogy. Her books have been translated into 20 languages, and she said the opportunity to stay at Greenway House felt deeply inspiring.
“I am looking forward to working on my new story, finding inspiration, and connecting with the other writers and the literary community of Exeter,” she said.
Joining them is Dr Manjiri Prabhu, an internationally acclaimed mystery author and founder of two literary festivals in India. Describing the residency as “a huge honour”, she said she was eager to immerse herself in the atmosphere of Greenway and Exeter alike.
“I am positive that living in the midst of nature, writing, exploring, and soaking in the spirit of the place would bring out the best in the writer in me,” she said.
For organisers, the residency is about far more than simply offering writers a peaceful place to work.
Anna Cohn Orchard, executive director of Exeter UNESCO City of Literature, described the programme as an example of the UNESCO network at its best - creating opportunities for writers from different cultures to connect and create together.
“Greenway is such a special place to spend time as a writer, and we are excited to welcome Manjiri, Judith, and Aining into Devon’s literary community,” she said.
Gary Calland, general manager for National Trust South Devon, said the estate’s literary legacy made it a fitting setting for international creative exchange.
“This is a place with a deep connection to writing, and it is inspiring to see that tradition continue with these international writers staying on site for two weeks,” he said.
“Their presence brings fresh energy and new perspectives, and we cannot wait to see how Greenway’s atmosphere and history shape the work they create.”
With sweeping gardens, hidden pathways and views across the Dart estuary, Greenway has long been associated with Christie’s imagination. During the residency, that same atmosphere will now provide the backdrop for three writers from three continents — each bringing their own stories, cultures and creative voices to one of Devon’s most iconic literary homes.
