With alternative holidays and staycations becoming ever more popular, wellness retreats are an excellent option for refreshing and unwinding on vacation. For Brits looking to recharge, the UK has plenty of yoga retreats to explore and enjoy. Most studios offer varying levels of yoga, so whether you're brand new to it or a seasoned pro, you can find the right retreat for you. Offering days of healing and training your mind, body, and soul, along with nourishing whole foods and connecting with likeminded people, these are the best yoga retreats in the UK.
Sharpham Trust, Totnes
The Sharpham Trust is based in Totnes in Devon, with a mission to make the world a more mindful, compassionate, and sustainable place. They offer a whole host of workshops and retreats, all aimed at boosting wellness, including calming yoga retreats. Experienced leaders guide guests through yoga sessions and guided meditations, which are combined with free time for reflection and contemplation in the stunning scenery. Situated in the beautiful grounds of the Sharpham Trust on the River Dart, guests are sure to love the natural environment whilst learning new yoga techniques and finding ultimate relaxation. With accomodation in the Grade-II listed Coach House included, what's not to love.
Nearest station: Totnes station is a 15-minute taxi ride away.
Fritton Lake, Norfolk
Join yoga teacher Sarah Malcolm lakeside for one of the UK's most relaxing yoga retreat weekends. Fritton Lake in Norfolk offers picturesque environments in which to fully embrace Sarah's teachings. Her yoga weekend retreats are the perfect way to shake off old energy and leave refreshed and rejuvenated. With nature surrounding, the retreat includes more than just yoga (though there is plenty of that!). You can get involved with hiking, wild swimming, a sauna, sports, or simply just reading and resting. All accommodation and food is included, and a massage can be added for a little extra.
Nearest station: The nearest train station is Haddiscoe, but you can find onward services from Ely station if you're travelling with CrossCountry.
The Coach House Retreat, Monmouthshire
There is nowhere better for unwinding, stretching, and reconnecting with yourself than the scenic Black Mountains in Wales. The Coach House retreat is located in the Wye Valley area of outstanding natural beauty, which provides the perfect backdrop for a few days of yoga and mindfulness with Olivia; along with nutritional guidance, massage, hiking, and more. There are plenty of booking options available, so whether you're a solo Yogi or a group of friends looking for a yoga retreat to enjoy together, you can find the perfect retreat at the Coach House.
Nearest station: You can reach the Coach House Retreat from Lydney station with a 30-minute taxi ride.
Gaia House, Newton Abbott
Set in peaceful woodland, in the beauty of the South Devon countryside, Gaia House offers silent meditation retreats for anyone wanting to escape the madness of modern life. The retreat runs year-round programmes of insight meditation, yoga and mindfulness teachings based on Buddhist traditions. Whether you opt for a month-long retreat or three nights of silence, this sanctuary of contemplative calm will give you the opportunity to explore and develop serenity, wisdom and compassion. Soundless days are filled with meditations, vegetarian feasts and helping the house run smoothly.
Getting there: From Newton Abbot station, Gaia House is a 15-minute taxi ride.
SonoYoga Retreats, Edinburgh
Sharon (SonoYoga) and her chef husband, Richard (Bongo), run several open retreats throughout the year in locations throughout Scotland and beyond. If you love yoga and you’re a real foodie, this could be the retreat for you. You will begin the day with a 90-120-minute Yang practice followed by a healthy, nutritious breakfast prepared by Richard. Spend of the rest of your day exploring your surroundings before finishing the day with a 60-90-minute Yin style practice, followed by a 2-course vegetarian dinner. There are multiple retreats located in Scotland, all easily accessible from Edinburgh.
Nearest station: All SonoYoga Retreats are accessible from Edinburgh Waverley station.
Sanjeevanni Retreats, Cambridge
Described as ‘life-changing’ and ‘enlightening’ by past participants, this week-long immersive retreat aims to revive a higher consciousness. The retreat offers participants the chance to delve deeper into the philosophy and meditation of Raja Yoga. Alongside guests from all around the world, enjoy interactive sessions, guided meditation, workshops and silent walks in the heart of Cambridge. If you choose to join a Sanjeevani retreat, you will be attempting to grasp a higher consciousness, and therefore reveal your highest potential. If this unique retreat sparks your interest, check out InnerSpace Cambridge.
Location: From Cambridge station, you can take a 10-minute bus ride to InnerSpace or walk in around 25 minutes.
If you’re planning a trip to one of the best yoga retreats in the UK, don’t forget to book an Advance ticket via our website or the CrossCountry app. If you need more information, you can contact us here.
Written by Seb