Frequently Asked Questions

The Adventure

Game system
Dungeons & Dragons 5e (2014 and 2024edition). Dice will be rolled. Worlds will be built. Shenanigans are guaranteed. Daggerheart is also an option if we have enough players wanting to play that system.

Age limit
16+

note: 16 and 17 year olds must be accompanied by someone who is 18 or over..

Where we’re staying
The legendary St Briavel’s Castle YHA in Gloucestershire — a place full of creaky staircases, stone walls, an oubliette and the perfect setting for a weekend of dragons and drama.

Session Zero
Details to come — we’ll let you know closer to the event.

Check-in / Check-out

  • Arrive: Friday 20th November 2026

  • Depart: Monday 23rd November 2026

Nights included
3 nights in the castle.

Food & feasting

  • Daily cooked breakfast, hearty packed lunch, and warming dinners.

  • Plus a Masquerade Ball & Banquet — a feast of Christmas deliciousness.

Game hours
Between 16–20 hours of D&D across the weekend.

Minimum adventurer count
We need at least 16 players to bring this quest to life. If we don’t hit that number 30 days before check-in, we’ll either reschedule or cancel.

Accessibility
The castle is beautiful but not built with accessibility in mind — uneven floors, steps, and tricky corners are part of the deal. Please reach out to us when booking if you’d like to discuss mobility needs.

Payment

Deposits & balance

  • We offer 2 payment options:
    1 - pay in full or
    2 - 10 month payment plan if booked with the early bird ticket.

  • The final payment is due 60 days before check-in.

  • If you book less than 60 days out, the full payment is due within 24 hours.

Pay monthly
Booking with the Early Bird Discount and you can spread the cost with interest-free instalments. Pay the total balance evenly over 10 monthly payments… making sure that the final balance paid 60 days before the event.

Financial protection
Your money is kept safe in a Travel Trust Association (TTA) account. If the worst happened and we went under, your booking is still protected. We still recommend taking out travel insurance for peace of mind (medical, luggage, travel disruptions, etc.).

Refund & Cancellation Policy

We know adventures don’t always go as planned. Here’s how cancellations and refunds work for A Winter’s Veil: The Curse of St Briavels:

Cancelling Your Booking

  • All cancellations must be made in writing via email.

  • Cancellations are effective from the day we receive your email (or the next working day if it’s a weekend or bank holiday).

Refunds

  • Within 7 days of booking (24 hours if it’s a short-notice booking - 60 days or less): 100% refund of your total payment.

  • More than 60 days before check-in: 50% refund minus any costs already spent on pre-game items.

  • Fewer than 60 days before check-in: We cannot guarantee a refund. If we are able to resell your place, you will receive your Paid Balance, minus any costs already spent on pre-game items and food / lodgings.

If You Leave Early
If you choose (or are required) to leave the Adventure before it concludes, we cannot refund unused services or nights.

Common Questions

Do you only run D&D?
No. We will be running a Dagger Heart campaign during the November 2026 event. We are also planning on doing other TTRPG events in the coming future.

Do your GMs get paid?
Yes. 100%. Our game masters are professionals who put in huge creative effort to build safe, inclusive, unforgettable experiences.

Can I request a GM?
If you’re wanting to play Dagger Heart your DM will be Pete. But other than that, no not for The November 2026 event..

Do I have to switch tables?
Not for the November 2026 event, no. .

What if someone behaves badly?
We have a clear Code of Conduct. Unsafe, discriminatory, or disruptive behaviour will not be tolerated. Depending on the situation, we may:

  • Have a quiet word

  • Give a formal warning

  • Remove someone from the game

  • Ask them to leave the event (no refund in this case).

What’s your stance on inclusivity?
Everyone is welcome at our table. Transphobia, homophobia, racism, sexism, or any other harmful behaviour is not. We match room shares based on preferences and trust what people tell us about themselves. Safety and respect come first.

Can I bring my kids?
This event is adults-only (16+). For custom adventures, family options can be arranged.

Can I bring a pet?
No - too many allergies and complications. For custom adventures, it may be possible if the venue allows.

What about non-players?
At The Dusty Dragon, spaces are prioritised for players. For some custom adventures, non-playing companions can join at a reduced rate. Email us to enquire.

Can I come without accommodation if I live nearby?
Maybe — get in touch and we’ll see if it’s possible, depending on numbers.

Can I GM for you?
We’re not running open recruitment for this event, but we’re always excited to connect with potential future GMs. Keep an eye on our socials for openings.

What are the rules for character creation?
For the November 2026 event, we’ll send you out information to build your character. You’ll be building it with the GMs. We’ll share more closer to the time. Homebrew and third-party content needs pre-approval to make sure it fits the setting (sorry, no laser guns in the castle).

What style of D&D do you run?
Balanced — roleplay, exploration, and combat all get their moments. You don’t need a 10-page backstory or encyclopedic knowledge of your spells. Come as you are, ready to play. Our GMs are there to make sure every player shines.