creative retreats in somerset
Retreats for those ready to slow down and draw strength from the natural world.
At Oakhill Ponds we host a small number of retreats, from elemental day retreats to long weekends dedicated to reading and writing, in a beautiful landscape, with spring-fed swimming, wood-fired saunas and creative work shaped by the seasons.
Time in nature to reclaim your thoughts and step away from the interruptions of everyday life.
Whether reading, writing, moving or simply being outdoors, each retreat is designed to weave stillness with imagination in a setting alive with wildlife and history.
full list of upcoming retreats
Poetry - led Writing Retreat in rural Somerset · 2–5 October 2026
An immersive retreat for writers who want to deepen the sense of place in their work.
Led by award winning poet JLM Morton this three-night retreat uses poetry, observation, field notes, sensory prompts and creative mapping to help you write with greater texture, presence and atmosphere.
With Oakhill Ponds as our starting point, the process can lead us anywhere — to landscapes, buildings, childhood places, imagined worlds or inner terrain.
For poets, prose writers, nature writers, memoirists and reflective writers at any stage.
Featuring a conversation with special guest Rachel Bower.
From £595pp · 3 nights · all meals included
Spacious reading retreat - 19-22 February
Three spacious days for readers craving time, quiet and deep reading - with spring-fed ponds, sauna, firelight, and a celebratory supper with a visiting author.
Includes an optional near- full-moon swim and sauna on Friday evening
A reading retreat hosted by Amanda Miles + guest author
From £875pp · 3 nights · 4 days · all meals provided including Sunday lunch