Residential Retreats

(Images from previous retreats, including charcoal by Ann Heymans)

Rest, Reflection & Connection Residential Retreats are available in Shropshire at the Sycamores in the Carding Mill Valley, Church Stretton. Each retreat includes time exploring the valley and surrounding hills. Within the hills there is a reservoir for cold water swimming, walks to a waterfall, far-reaching vistas above the valley, plenty of bird life, sheep and wild ponies, there is also a National Trust café if extra cake is required.

I have reimagined my retreats to emphasise gentleness and self-care. There will be meditative yoga before breakfast and supper with the practices suggesting ways to reconnect and retreat, aligned with the season and yoga philosophy. Everyone will be encouraged to go offline and to use the house and valley to be; if reading, writing and journaling are useful tools for you, this the perfect time to employ them. I will be available for individual time during the retreat.

This a space for solitude and for community

‘Yvonne has a very calm patient and understanding nature . She is very passionate, experienced and knowledgeable on all her subjects.  I met Yvonne about 5 years ago. This is where my journey with her started. Firstly I studied Reiki 1 & 11, and attended Reiki Shares. I have attended her yoga classes, workshops on Ayurveda ,yoga and meditation which has helped my tremendously, mind body and soul.’


‘I have enjoyed two retreats at Sycamores where Yvonne incorporated everything together. She not only ran it and planned it, she cooked all the lovely food. I found the retreat a perfect place to reflect on my life … It really gave me confidence and a sense of independence.’


‘I have a particular relationship with some of my students where there is mutual understanding and I can sense I am able to hold them at times in the appropriate space when needed. You do that for me, and in fact, you did it for 5 people simultaneously all weekend. Great weekend … and so efficiently organised too!’

Sycamores Retreat Reviews
  • Arrival from 1230 on Friday (lunch provided), retreat programme starts at 1600
  • Departure Midday on Sunday
  • Spaces: 5 spaces with two people sharing
Food
  • Vegetarian menu to include breakfast, lunch and supper (some community participation requested)
Accommodation

Sycamores is built into a hillside, a certain level of mobility is required to access the property. The accommodation has steps leading up to the front door and bedrooms are on the first and second floor. The garden is terraced.

  • Available rooms
    • single room (can convert to twin)
    • two double rooms
    • one twin room with en suite
    • shared shower room or bathroom unless stated
Cost
  • £250 per person

Booking a retreat weekend

A retreat space can be a nourishing and transformative experience and for most this is inspiring. However, retreats can be potentially destabilising if the right support is not in place. Please complete the details below and I will be in touch to arrange a conversation by zoom/WhatsApp to discuss whether this retreat is appropriate for you. I can also answer any questions you have about the accommodation and the valley and tell me your dietary requirements or additional support required.

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A word about our hosts

I grew up living next door to Liz. I was their bridesmaid and their daughter was mine (ours). We have a long association. I find Liz and Tim’s journeys inspiring. They are firmly placed in their Christian practice with years of experience in social care. They are available for listening hours or sharing prayer. This is optional and separate to the retreats.

Here is a link to their website so you can read about their journeys and vision: Sycamores Christian Retreat