Wagtail Retreats

An Intimate Lakeside Escape for Two in the Worcestershire Countryside

Three dog-friendly shepherd hut cabins in rural Worcestershire, each sleeping two – with a private lake, wood-fired sauna, and outdoor bath or hot tub- perfect for romantic, adults-only escapes.

Tucked away in the Worcestershire countryside, Wagtail Retreats is a peaceful hideaway created by owners Sarah and James Deakin – and it’s all about switching off, slowing down and enjoying time together. This collection of three handcrafted shepherd huts is designed just for adults, making it a dreamy spot for romantic breaks and reconnecting in nature.

You’ll wake up to views stretching across wildflower meadows to the Malvern Hills, and spend your days wild swimming in the private lake, warming up in the wood-fired sauna or simply doing nothing at all. Each hut is your own private retreat, set in 20 acres of countryside – and if you’ve got a four-legged companion, they’re welcome too.

The Wagtail Retreats Accommodation

Wagtail Retreats is home to three beautifully handcrafted shepherd huts – Hedgehog, Larch and Gooseberry – each one perfect for a cosy, luxurious break for two. Lovingly built with sustainable materials by James and styled by Sarah with a calm, contemporary touch, these cabins have a peaceful, welcoming feel from the moment you arrive.

Each hut includes:

• A comfy king-size bed for two
• A private shower room with walk-in shower, loo and hand basin
• A handy kitchenette with solid oak worktops, fridge-freezer, portable hob, toaster and kettle
• A breakfast bar for laid-back meals or checking in on emails
• A cosy sitting room space with a log burner for snuggly evenings
• Plush bedding, fluffy towels and Bramley toiletries (yes, those gorgeous Egyptian cotton sheets too)

Outside the Shepherd Huts

Step out onto your own private wraparound deck and take in the view- wildflower meadows, the lake and open skies. It’s a lovely spot for a lazy morning coffee or an evening glass of wine from the estate’s vineyard.

Depending on which hut you book, you’ll also have:

• A vintage roll-top bath or wood-fired hot tub – soak under the stars and let all the stress melt away
• A firepit – perfect for marshmallow toasting or late-night chats by the flames
• A BBQ – ideal for alfresco dinners in the summer months
• Outdoor seating to settle in, listen to the birds and breathe it all in

Dog-friendly Stays

Sarah and James are big dog lovers, so your pup is more than welcome. Up to two dogs can stay in each hut, and they’ll be spoiled with cosy beds, towels, bowls, treats and even Bramley’s Digby Dog Wash. You’ll also find lots of dog-friendly walks straight from the estate (including the private Wagtail bridlepath) and plenty of local pubs and attractions where your four-legged friend is welcome.

Wellness at Wagtail Retreats

If you’re craving calm, this is the place to find it. Alongside the peace and quiet, there are a few thoughtful extras to help you fully unwind:

• Take a refreshing wild swim in the private lake
• Relax in the Scandi-style wood-fired sauna
• Pre-order a bottle of vineyard wine to enjoy during your stay
• Wander through wildflower meadows and gentle trails hand in hand

Sustainability at Wagtail Retreats

Wagtail has been created with sustainability at its heart. Each hut is built from reclaimed or responsibly sourced wood, insulated with Welsh sheep wool and finished with reclaimed touches – like the vintage baths that have been lovingly restored. There are EV chargers onsite too.

The vineyard and wildflower meadow were also planted by Sarah and James to support local wildlife and boost biodiversity – giving a little something back to nature.

Location

Wagtail Retreats is just outside the village of Hallow, around 15 minutes northwest of Worcester. It’s surrounded by rolling hills and countryside, with far-reaching views towards the Malverns – peaceful and private, but still close enough to plenty of things to do.

The location strikes just the right balance: tucked away enough for peace and quiet, but close enough to explore if the mood takes you. Walk by the River Severn, visit Worcester’s shops, restaurants and cathedral, or head further afield to Hereford, the Cotswolds, or even Birmingham.

Local Attractions

If you fancy a little exploring, there’s plenty nearby to enjoy – whether it’s an easy-going day out or something more adventurous:

• Monkwood – ancient woodland that’s full of wildlife
• Worcester Cathedral – a beautiful riverside landmark
• Historic homes – like Spetchley Park, Witley Court and Eastnor Castle
• Pretty towns and villages – Malvern, Ledbury, Broadway and Stratford-upon-Avon
• Severn Valley Railway – ride a vintage train through the countryside
• Events and festivals – close to the NEC and Three Counties Showground

Getting to Wagtail Retreats

• Just 15 minutes northwest of Worcester (Moseley Road)
• 20 minutes from junction 7 of the M5
• Nearest train station: Worcester Foregate Street
• Nearest airport: Birmingham (BHX)

Your Romantic Hideaway Awaits

Wagtail Retreats is all about switching off, slowing down, and enjoying the simple pleasures of time together. These adults-only shepherd huts are designed with calm in mind – soft touches, thoughtful details, and space to just be.

Soak in your outdoor bath or hot tub, go for a dip in the lake, warm up in the sauna or just sit with a glass of something and watch the sun set over the meadows. With countryside walks from your door and a warm welcome for dogs too, this is a place where you can truly relax, reconnect and enjoy a little bit of laid-back luxury.