Do you want to take a break from the daily grind and nurture both your emotional and physical health? Then, it may be time for a yoga retreat!
I know that the UK may not immediately spring to mind when one thinks of yoga retreats, but the truth is that the country’s wellness scene has rapidly evolved over the years. So, whether you want to work on your fitness or simply want some respite from your day-to-day routine, rest assured that you’ll find plenty of excellent yoga retreats in the UK.
So, let’s check out the best ones!
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Why Should You Consider a Yoga Retreat in the UK?
If you haven’t added the UK to your bucket list yet, then you’re certainly missing out!
After all, this country is so much more than just London. Tucked away in the British countryside are hidden gems that are just begging to be explored- something that’s quite feasible given the sheer abundance of yoga retreats available across the country. Indeed, while yoga retreats are perfect for soothing your body, mind, and spirit, they also offer the perfect opportunity to explore the UK.
Idyllic settings are abundant: from mountain to oceanfront retreats, you’re bound to find one that tickles your fancy.
Imagine starting off your day with a restorative sunrise yoga session surrounded by majestic mountain peaks followed by an afternoon of hiking across the picturesque countryside to watch the sun dip slowly behind those towering ranges. It really doesn’t get any better, does it?
What Can You Expect from a Yoga Retreat in the UK?
It’s no secret that modern life can sometimes be detrimental to our emotional and physical health. The good news is that virtually all yoga retreats offer daily sessions- perfect for those who want to defocus from the daily grind, disconnect from technology, rebalance their emotions, and heal.
While offerings vary from one retreat to another, most places offer an all-inclusive package with comfy accommodations, meals, leisure activities, wellness sessions, and yoga classes. Basically, everything’s taken care of, enabling you to completely immerse yourself in the program.
Most yoga retreats in the UK are located outside major cities, giving you the chance to explore gorgeous rural locations that you might have missed out on otherwise!
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How to Choose the Right Yoga Retreat in the UK for you?
Here’s where it gets a bit tricky. Because there are so many yoga retreats in the UK, it can be somewhat challenging to make the right choice.
I would strongly suggest that you take your time to properly browse through various options to ensure that they meet your budget, expectations, and personal preferences.
To ensure that you get the best bang for your buck, ask yourself what’s your purpose for signing up for the retreat. Are you looking to brush up on your yoga skills or do you simply want to unwind? Is there any particular yoga technique that you prefer?
Once you’ve pondered these questions, I can assure you that it’ll be far easier to narrow down your choices.
Below are a few other things that you may wish to consider:
Location
There’s no denying that one of the most important factors to consider before choosing your retreat is your location in the UK.
Unlike what most people think, the UK offers various landscapes, from towering peaks to pebbled shorelines, national parks, and farms galore! Most yoga retreats are found in the British countryside which just so happens to be known for its unparalleled beauty!
If oceanfront settings are your thing, you may wish to consider visiting Cornwall, known for its azure waters. Travelers looking for an immersive experience in nature should feel right at home in places like Derbyshire and Wales.
Practices
Don’t worry about your experience level since the retreats listed below cater to all skill levels.
The great thing about UK yoga retreats is that you’ll have a wide choice of practices to choose from. While some places specialize in one or two specific practices, most of them engage in various techniques- perfect for beginners looking for a sampler!
One of the most common practices is Hatha Yoga, which basically focuses on physical postures to strengthen and center your body. If you’re a novice, I would also recommend that you sign up for Nidra yoga which includes a guided meditation to encourage a state of consciousness between sleeping and waking.
Intermediate or advanced yogis will most likely prefer Vinyasa Yoga- another very popular option in the UK. Also known as ‘Flow Yoga’, this practice merges several rapid movements that are executed using breath.
You’ll also find several Silent Yoga programs in the UK, where you are encouraged to immerse yourself in your own thoughts in order to reconnect with yourself.
Price
It’s no secret that yoga retreats may initially appear costly but that’s because they’re all-inclusive. This means that you won’t need to pay for your accommodation, food, activities, and other activities. Meals are usually locally sourced using fresh and organic ingredients.
Having said that, it is entirely possible to find fairly affordable yoga retreats in the UK- although these may only include breakfast instead of three meals per day.
Bear in mind that the price is also dependent on the location: a boutique hotel retreat is definitely going to be more expensive than, say, a lakeside cottage.
Perks
Okay, here’s where it gets really interesting: in addition to yoga classes, most retreats feature a delightful medley of perks to ensure that you have a banging time even when class isn’t in session!
Every yoga retreat in the UK that I’ve found has its own share of offerings. This should come as no surprise, given the country’s diverse terrain. For example, mountain retreats usually boast hiking, trekking, or mountain biking expeditions- perfect for those who’d like to fit in some sightseeing during their yoga retreat!
Depending on the program and location, you can also expect extras like watersports, sound bathing, meditation, counseling, and even physiotherapy.
Duration
Most retreats last from 2 days to a week- although 3 days seem to be the more popular option. Bear in mind that shorter retreats tend to be more affordable, so this may be something to consider if you’re traveling on a budget.
It’s also important to know that longer retreats don’t always mean better- something that more experienced yogis can vouch for.
If you’ve got the time (and money!) to spare, you may also wish to consider more immersive retreats that span over 2 weeks or even a month. The best thing about longer retreats is that they’ll give you more time to explore- and perhaps even catch a couple of festivals in the UK while you’re at it!
The Top 10 Yoga Retreats in the UK
Now that you know what to expect from various types of yoga programs, it’s time to take a look at the best ones!
Here are 10 retreats that I can vouch for.
Best Yoga Retreat in the UK for Solo Travelers – 3 Day 1-2-1 Age Well Retreat
- Price: From $362
- Location: Dorset
Beginners, rejoice! Not only does this Hatha yoga retreat in the UK cater to less-experienced yogis, but it also includes multiple perks like physiotherapy, bodywork, mediation, body awareness, breathwork, as well as wellbeing science and education. Not bad for the price, right?
Daily breakfast is provided, and participants will stay in a self-contained house with all the comforts of home. Nestled in the stunning Dorset countryside, this retreat offers one-on-one sessions.
Over-the-Top Luxury Yoga Retreat in the UK – 6 Day Immersive Island Women Wellness Retreat
- Price: From $1,482
- Location: Isle of North
Here’s one retreat that I can absolutely recommend if you’re not watching those purse strings!
This is a 6-day program designed to help you reconnect to your true self, restore, and rest. With two yoga and meditation classes per day, this retreat also includes a ceremonial cacao warming to help you open your hearts.
Airport or ferry taxis are provided and you can expect 3 meals per day. Ideal for beginners and intermediate yogis, this program focuses on Nidra and Restorative yoga. The lodge is located just a short distance from Clachan Sands Beach.
Best Yoga Retreat in the UK for Couples – 3 Day Boutique Wellness Spa & Yoga Retreat
- Price: $866
- Location: Kent
Romance and wellness meet in this 3-Day Spa and Yoga retreat. Located in a historic country home, this retreat offers two days of Hatha, Vinyasa, Yin, Restorative, and Nidra yoga for all skill levels.
After your class, tuck into a delicious meal sourced from homegrown ingredients, then enjoy a restorative dip in the hot tub or relax by the Inglenook fireplace before retiring to your elegant bedroom.
Participants can expect complimentary perks like guided walks across the picturesque Kent countryside.
Yoga Retreats in the UK near the Beach – 3 Day 1:1 Growth, Mind & Happiness Coaching Retreat
- Price: $1,269
- Location: Pembroke
Looking for fun yoga retreats in the UK? Then you may wish to check out this 4-day program, located smack dab by the sea!
In addition to daily Vinyasa, Restorative, and Nidra yoga classes for beginners and intermediate yogis, participants will be treated to 1-1 sessions tailored to your needs. You’ll also get to participate in a foraging walk by the coast before indulging in a sound healing bath.
Other perks include SUP and kayaking sessions. After all these activities, drift off to sleep and wake up to ocean views in the morning. You’ll also get one follow up session included too.
Most Beautiful Yoga Retreat in the UK – 3 Days Yoga, Hiking, & Paddle Boarding
- Price: From $461
- Location: Ambleside, Lake District, UK
Set in the Lake District, you’ll be surrounded by the pleasant scenery of Rydal Water as you work on your body, relax, get grounded, and bask in the healing power of nature.
You’ll be staying in a 16th-century cottage right in the heart of the Lake District. It’s easy to go to the lake for a swim or walk to the mountains for some fresh air and an adrenaline rush. The premises also boast a log burner, sauna, fire pit, piano, and plenty of cozy nooks for reading.
Participate in 60 to 90 minutes of yoga sessions that include Yin, Vinyasa, and Nidra yoga and daily guided meditations. If you fancy, various water sports are available too such as SUP sessions and swimming.
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View on Booking.comBest Yoga Retreat in the UK for Friends – 4 Days Hiking and Yoga Retreat
- Price: From $679
- Location: Ambleside, England
The perfect opportunity to escape from the city and head for the hills, get ready to spend time with nature, eat nutritious food, practice yoga, and feel great in the gorgeous Lake District.
Begin each day in the beautiful yoga shala with stunning views of the hills. Afterward, the experienced and qualified mountain guide will take you on a day hike. Fully immerse yourself in nature and feel the goodness of being away from the city’s frenetic phase.
Enjoy your packed lunch while your eyes feast on the beauty of the surroundings.
After the day’s excursion, you can look forward to evening yin and restorative yoga followed by a vegetarian or vegan dinner feast.
Unique Yoga Retreat in the UK – 3 Day Lush Eco-Farm Stay Yoga Retreat
- Price: From $810
- Location: Hampshire
Perfect for reconnecting with nature while experiencing farm-style living, this UK yoga retreat boasts eight Vinyasa yoga and meditation sessions for all levels.
You’ll live right on an eco-farm which offers a choice of dorms or private rooms. Scrumptious farm-style meals, herbal teas, cakes, and drinks are provided.
In between classes, you can always grab a free bike to explore New Forest, one of the best national parks in the UK.
Yoga Retreat in the UK in the Mountains – 4 Day Weekend Hiking and Yoga Retreat
- Price: From $991
- Location: Bidart, France
Outdoor adventures beckon at this 4-day hiking and yoga retreat for all levels!
Yoga styles include Nidra, Restorative, and Dynamic. Free perks include two days of guided hikes alongside qualified mountain guides. At the end of the day, relax by the outdoor fire pit for an evening of star-gazing or watch the sunset over the Peak District valleys.
Healthy meals are prepared onsite by an experienced chef.
Luxury Yoga Retreat in the UK – 5-Day Sacred Yoga & Meditation
- Price: $650 +
- Location: Cumbria
If you want the best, this luxury meditation retreat is the way to go. This retreat is located in the beautiful English Lake District – one of the most stunning national parks in the UK. It offers all the amenities and comforts one would expect from a high-end getaway.
Along with luxury, you will also deepen your yoga practice or spiritual connection. A win-win.
Their team of experienced practitioners will guide you through transformative yoga sessions, ritual massages, sound baths, and soulful meditation on the beautiful grounds of Sunny Brow Farm. It’s an excellent opportunity for heart-centered rest and healing.
After five days, you will feel re-energized and rejuvenated, with a renewed sense of connection to the things that have always felt close to your heart. In my opinion, this is the best of a competitive bunch of yoga retreats in the UK.
Best Silent Yoga Retreats in the UK – 3 Day Holistic Retreat
- Price: From $599
- Location: West Sussex
Offering both gentle and more vigorous yoga practices, this 3-day holistic retreat has quite a relaxed schedule. In fact, you even have the possibility of extending the retreat by one or two days.
Along with daily classes, you can choose from various types of personal development activities or book treatments like colonic cleanses. This retreat is found in a nature reserve near the sea, so there are plenty of idyllic spots around for you to explore!
Don’t forget insurance
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Yoga Retreats in the UK
I’m sure by now you’ve realized there are several yoga retreats in the UK to choose from, based on your budget and preferences. Each program offers something unique and different. Both yoga and meditation retreats in the UK are increasing in popularity, and for good reason!
So, whether you’d like to brush up on existing skills, learn yoga from scratch, or work on your meditation techniques in a soothing setting, you’ll definitely find something with your name on it!
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