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.
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 14th October 2025.
Hot drinks, lunch and all materials are provided.
The investment is £125 per person.
Booking via Catkin website - the link below will take you there
Nature Connection Residential Retreat
Join us for a residential retreat in the glorious landscape of mid-Wales. Rachel Petheram and I are jointly hosting a retreat to deeply connect you to nature and give you some peace and respite for a 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. It is 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 host a retreat here.
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 8 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.
The cost is £795 per person. We request a non-refundable booking fee of £265 to secure your place and the balance of £530 can be paid in two installments of £265, or in one go. Full payment is due by 5th June 2025.
Booking is via Rachel’s website at
www.catkinflowers.co.uk -
the button below will take you there
Friday 5th September - Sunday 7th September 2025.
We invite you to join us for these activities, but the time is yours - if you want to sleep, walk, read instead then feel free to dip in and out as it works for you.
Friday 5th September
3- 4pm Arrival – hot drinks and snacks on arrival
6pm – Botanical cocktail (alcoholic and non-alcoholic) and introductions at firepit
Dinner
Sat 6th September
Early morning yoga option
Breakfast
Tree walk/tree therapy/bark rubbings
Lunch
Sound bath and reiki
Free time to use sauna, walk, reflect
Botanical cocktails at firepit
Dinner
Full moon ceremony subject to weather.
Sun 7th Sept
Early morning yoga option
Breakfast
Mindfulness walk and forage
Creative practice
Lunch
Blackberry ceremony and close.
4pm – Depart.