We all need time to connect. With ourselves, with our lives, with what matters.
Time spent in nature, whether just being or gently doing, is without question one of the best ways to connect and regain perspective. Nature connectedness has the potential to not only enrich our lives by taking us to a place of infinite enchantment, but can also, by taking us 'home', give is physical, mental and spiritual resilience. The nature breaks below, whether a day, a weekend or a week, are designed to help you slow down, refresh and be inspired. I hope you will find something that appeals.
Nature Connection Retreat 2026 - coming soon
Nature Connection Residential Retreat
After having a wonderful time with a lovely group in early September, we are in currently finalising details of our 2026 retreat in the glorious landscape of mid-Wales. Rachel Petheram and I will be jointly hosting a weekend to deeply connect you to nature and give you some peace and respite for a long weekend. We will use guided walks, meditation, creative practice, yoga and sound baths (with our lovely friend Sarah from Wild Earth Yoga) to immerse you in the wonderful landscape surrounding our gorgeous venue. It is being held at Original Hideaways, a purpose built retreat venue with wonderful facilities. Set in 10 acres of private land, adjacent to a 150 acre working farm. It has 10 en-suite double bedrooms, private dining facilities, a purpose built workshop space, a beautiful river, a wood-fired sauna, adorable animals, a fire-pit, beautiful walks - it is absolutely stunning and we are so excited to be returning in 2026. While we are finalising details of the retreat, please drop us a line if you’d like us to notify you shortly - click on the link below
Location
Original Hideaways is situated between Llanidloes and Machynlleth in rural Mid Wales, a mountainous valley steeped in Welsh history. The local train station is CAERSWS which is 5 miles (7km) from the venue. Birmingham International is a direct train away from Caersws (2hrs), and one change away from London Euston. Manchester International airport is a 90min drive.
Practicalities
Places are limited to 10 people maximum, and you will have your own double bedroom and en-suite bathroom. The retreat is fully catered by Aimee from Earthly Feasts and all equipment is provided.
Dates - Friday 25th September - Sunday 27th September 2026
Price - Tbc
Nature Gathering
I’m thrilled to be collaborating with Rachel Petheram at Catkin again, this time in a series of workshops focussed on botanical creativity and gardening in a wilder way.
The Nature Gathering will immerse you in our garden across the seasons, learning about growing and gardening , and connecting with nature through different creative techniques, using foraged and grown materials.
It’s about connecting with like-minded souls, the seasons and nature, and transforming your relationship with your outside space, to play and learn in a relaxed, beautiful environment.
There will be 6 gatherings in total between February and December, all held in the Rachels wildlife friendly cutting garden at Doddington Hall near Lincoln.
You will find a full description of the Nature Gathering, including dates & costs at Catkinflowers – follow the link below.
We would love it if you could join us.
Love Letter to Trees
Join Rachel Petheram (of Catkin) and myself for a beautiful workshop celebrating our connection to, and the beauty of, trees.
Over 20 years as a garden designer I have developed a huge affinity for trees and now lead tree walks at Doddington Hall, RHS Harlow Carr and Sheffield Botanical Gardens, whilst Rachel, from being a floral designer for many years, now offers nature inspired retreats, workshops & mentoring from her beautiful therapy garden at Doddington Hall.
Guy and Rachel will lead a session in the gardens at Doddington Hall, where Guy will tell you about our connection to trees and their role in our history and culture and Rachel will guide you in a sylvotherapy session, where the therapeutic nature of trees will help you to relax and connect with nature.
We will use the trees for artistic expression, using mulberry paper and charcoal to create beautiful, unique bark rubbings, which will capture the essence of the trees in the garden at Doddington Hall.
The Practical Stuff
The workshop is held in my studio and in the gardens at Doddington Hall and the date is Tuesday 6th October 2026.
Hot drinks, lunch and all materials are provided.
The investment is £135 per person.
Booking via Catkin website - the link below will take you there
