4 relaxing wellness experiences gaining popularity in the UK this summer
Whether you're longing to unplug, stretch your body and mind, indulge in luxury, or explore deep inner silence, the UK has a retreat for you.
Wellness retreats have become more than a trend—they’re now essential escapes for people seeking calm, clarity, and connection in an increasingly digital and demanding world.
Digital Detox Retreats
In a hyper-connected society, many are experiencing tech burnout—difficulty sleeping, low attention spans, and rising anxiety. Digital detox retreats offer a structured way to break free from screens and reclaim presence.
What to Expect:
Zero screen policy: No phones, laptops, or tablets allowed
Nature-based activities: Forest bathing, guided hikes, stargazing
Mindfulness practices: Journaling, meditation, creative writing, and sketching
Key Benefits:
Reduces mental clutter and stress
Boosts focus and productivity
Improves sleep quality and emotional well-being
Here's some that we like:
Unplugged Retreat – 6 off-grid cabins around the UK (Sussex, Norfolk, Wales and more). Stays start at 3 nights with no Wi-Fi or electricity—just books, board games, and nature.
Careys Manor Hotel & SenSpa (Hampshire) – Combines a luxury spa experience with mindful disconnection. Great for couples or solo travelers seeking balance.
Travel Tip: Pack analog tools like notebooks, disposable cameras, and offline maps for the full experience.
Yoga & Meditation Retreats
Blending physical movement with mindful stillness, these retreats are ideal for those seeking inner peace, improved flexibility, and emotional resilience.
What to Expect:
Daily yoga classes (Hatha, Vinyasa, Yin, or restorative)
Guided meditations and sound baths to reduce stress
Optional workshops: Breathwork, chakra balancing, intention-setting
Key Benefits:
Improves physical strength and posture
Reduces stress and anxiety
Promotes emotional balance and spiritual awareness
Here's some that we like:
La Crisalida Retreats (Upper Severn Valley) – Designed to promote full mind-body rejuvenation. Includes plant-based meals, nature walks, and wellness talks.
The Yoga Barn (Devon) – A picturesque sanctuary offering immersive yoga programs with holistic therapies like reiki and massage.
Travel Tip: Look for retreats that include tailored programs if you're a beginner or dealing with injuries.
Luxury Spa Retreats
For those seeking pure indulgence, luxury spa retreats blend relaxation, beauty treatments, and gourmet healthy dining into one pampering package.
What to Expect:
Spa treatments: Aromatherapy, deep tissue massages, anti-aging facials, detox wraps
Thermal experiences: Saunas, steam rooms, hydrotherapy pools, ice baths
Gourmet dining: Organic meals, often designed by nutritionists
Key Benefits:
Deep muscle relaxation and toxin release
Skin rejuvenation and improved circulation
A break from daily stress in luxurious surroundings
Here's some that we like:
Champneys Spa – Multiple award-winning spa resorts across the UK. Offers detox plans, yoga, wellness workshops, and beauty services.
The Royal Crescent Hotel & Spa (Bath) – A Georgian townhouse with one of the UK’s most elegant spa setups. Roman-style thermal bath, private gardens, and top-tier treatments.
Travel Tip: Many luxury spas offer mid-week specials that are less crowded and more affordable.
Silent Retreats
For those on a journey of deep self-reflection, healing, or spiritual growth, silent retreats offer an immersive break from all external noise—including speech.
What to Expect:
Complete silence: No talking; some even restrict reading, writing, or eye contact
Mindfulness practices: Vipassana meditation, walking meditations, breathwork
Simple living: Modest meals, shared accommodations, and no distractions
Key Benefits:
Builds mental clarity and emotional resilience
Fosters deep self-awareness and compassion
Supports nervous system regulation and calm
Here's some that we like:
The Sharpham Trust (Devon) – Offers nature-based silent and mindfulness retreats set in historic estates overlooking the River Dart.
Gaia House (Devon) – A well-established Buddhist centre offering multi-day silent retreats rooted in compassion, equanimity, and insight meditation.
Travel Tip: Bring comfortable, loose-fitting clothes and prepare for introspection—many people report transformative breakthroughs.
