If you’re looking for a getaway with a difference, there’s plenty on offer in the UK.
From yoga and mindfulness to painting and poetry, a retreat can be an ideal way to give your mind, body, and soul a re-energising boost.
So, whether your interests lie in creative pursuits, wellness, or keeping fit, read on. Let your imagination wander to your next staycation, as you peruse this tantalising list of UK retreats.
1. Swimming, painting and more, Housel Bay, Cornwall
One of the biggest attractions of Housel Bay is its dramatic location on the stunning Lizard Peninsula, the UK’s most southern tip.
“Perched on nature’s edge” above a private cove, this stylish hotel offers incredible sea views, two restaurants, and a rolling schedule of events, including painting experiences and swimming weekends.
Voted one of the best three-star hotels in Europe by the Times, Housel Bay provides a unique escape from the crowds in an area of outstanding natural beauty.
There are 23 comfortable and tastefully decorated rooms to choose from, many with panoramic views.
During your retreat you can enjoy rejuvenating classes in the yoga studio, relax in the beautiful garden, and meet with like-minded people. And there’s plenty of wild countryside to explore from the doorstep – swim in secluded coves, go star gazing, or see if you can spot an Atlantic seal during the summer months.
When it’s time to leave, don’t forget to take a little bit of Housel Bay home with you. The hotel’s shop offers a tempting range of souvenirs from Cornish honey to handmade candles.
2. Private fitness and wellbeing retreats, Stede Court, Kent
Recharge and rejuvenate in this tranquil Grade-II listed house, set in the beautiful Kent countryside, near Biddenden.
Stede Court was developed by A-list personal trainer, Kathryn Freeland, who creates bespoke fitness and wellbeing retreats designed to de-stress and relax you.
You can make your stay as active or as restful as you wish – swim in the pond, unwind in the sauna, take a relaxing yoga or meditation class, or challenge yourself with a HIIT session. There are also massage and reflexology treatments on offer.
Kathryn can put together a package that meets your unique needs as a single traveller or a group. There’s also a wide range of add-ons to choose from, such as local wine tours and horse riding.
During your stay, you can enjoy healthy meals, stunning period accommodation, and personal training.
This luxury retreat is a great choice if you’re looking for complete relaxation and self-care.
3. Creative writing retreats, Moniack Mhor, Scotland
If you’re looking for a creative getaway, Moniack Mhor, Scotland’s National Writing Centre, runs a variety of writing retreats throughout the year.
Set in the stunning Scottish Highlands, these retreats provide precious time and space, free from distractions, to focus on your writing.
Choose from a broad variety of genres, such as non-fiction, poetry, and playwriting. Workshops are tutored by leading authors from the UK and beyond. There’s also reading by the fireside evenings and talks from visiting authors to inspire you.
When you’re ready for a writing break, enjoy the peaceful location and amazing views or lace up your boots and go for a countryside walk.
4. Luxury yoga and wellbeing, Sunset Bay Retreats, Wales
These five-star retreats have been named by the Guardian as “one of the best UK retreats for 2023”.
So, if you fancy an award-winning retreat on the Welsh coast, Sunset Bay’s immersive, holistic wellbeing breaks might be for you.
Retreats designed to nourish the mind, body, and soul run throughout the year. Activities include cycling, paddleboarding, wild swimming, mindfulness, and more.
You’ll stay in a beautifully converted gothic chapel and enjoy a daily menu of delicious vegan food, cooked by the retreat’s plant-based chef.
And of course, there’s miles of beach, forests, lakes, and rolling hills to explore.
Whether you’re retreat-hunting for yourself or others, Sunset Bay gift cards could be a great option.
5. Crafting holidays, Stitchtopia, UK-wide
Stitchtopia holidays run at locations throughout the UK and beyond. They combine crafting with stays in fantastic countryside and city locations, such as knitting in the Scottish Highlands and stitching in York.
So, whether your passion lies in embroidery, quilting or crocheting, there’s probably a staycation that will catch your eye.
Packages typically include crafting activities, accommodation, and additional activities, such as guided walking tours.
Get in touch
While planning your next retreat may be fun, planning your finances could help you achieve your short-, medium-, and long-term goals.
If you’d like to learn more about how we can help you create a personalised financial plan, please contact us by email at info@lloydosullivan.co.uk or call 020 8941 9779 to see how we can help you.
Please note
This article is for general information only and does not constitute advice. The information is aimed at retail clients only.
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