Cotswolds FAQ
Below are a list of Frequently Asked Questions pertaining to my Women’s Walking Retreats through the Cotswolds.
General Details
-
The Cotswolds, designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is a picturesque rural region just 2 hours northwest of London, known for its rolling hillsides dotted with sheep, honey-hued limestone cottages, charming stone villages, and ancient footpaths.
-
Walking retreats in the Cotswolds with Bringing Inspiration Home are guided, multi-day, village-to-village walks designed to give women the opportunity to slow down and immerse themselves in the beauty of the English countryside while enjoying meaningful conversation, reflection, and creative inspiration.
-
Each retreat is guided by myself, Jaime Fenwick, along with a special guest co-host who brings their own expertise and perspective to the experience. You’ll learn more about your specific co-host in each itinerary.
-
These retreats have been designed for women who love walking in nature, authentic connection, and are looking for an opportunity to slow down. Whether you’re a solo traveler, coming with a friend, or part of a group, you’re welcome to join!
-
Group sizes are intentionally kept to a maximum of approximately 10 guests in order to ensure an intimate and personal experience.
Accommodations & Logistics
-
You’ll stay in handpicked boutique inns, as well as a private guild house, that reflect the charm of the Cotswolds. Rooms may be private or shared depending on your preference and availability. If you’re traveling alone but prefer to share a room, we can match you with a like-minded roommate. If you’re traveling with a friend, let us know when booking, and we’ll arrange for you to room together.
Shared rooms feature two twin beds and private rooms typically offer a double or two twins pushed together for a king size equivalent. Rooms in hotels feature ensuite bathrooms and may or may not include a large soaker tub as well as a shower. Shared rooms at the guild house are on the smaller side, but there are plenty of common areas and grounds to spread out. There are 4 shared bathrooms at the guild house, including one with a deep soaker tub with views of the valley below!
-
Most accommodations and villages have Wi-Fi, but signal strength may vary in the countryside. This is a great chance to disconnect and immerse yourself in the experience!
-
The retreat begins in one of the Cotswolds’ villages, a two-hour drive from London. Your retreat will include transportation from London Heathrow airport to our starting destination.
Walking & Physical Requirements
-
Most walks are easy to moderate in difficulty, covering approximately 4-5 miles per day at a gentle pace. Terrain includes rolling countryside, cobblestone streets, some paved sections, and historic footpaths. There will be breaks for rest, meals, and exploration. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended. In the few months prior to the retreat, you can prepare for the walks by ensuring your footwear is broken in and by doing a couple of walks a week in hilly terrain if possible.
-
Walks are designed to be leisurely and enjoyable, not rushed. That said, participants should be comfortable walking in hilly terrain for several hours at a relaxed pace. We also take plenty of breaks! If the pace or terrain feels too strenuous for you, we can always call a taxi to meet us at the next village and transport you to our end destination. If you have concerns, let’s chat about options.
-
No matter where we are in the Cotswolds, medical services are never too far away. With fairly reliable cell phone coverage and contact with the local walking outfitters who help accommodate our retreat, we can ensure you’re attended to as soon as possible. Be sure to confirm travel medical insurance prior to the retreat and of course pack any medicines, EpiPen, inhaler, or prescriptions you typically travel with.
Weather & Packing
-
The Cotswolds experiences mild but changeable weather. Expect a mix of sunshine, clouds, and the occasional rain shower. Spring and autumn can be cool, while summer is pleasantly warm.
-
A detailed packing list will be sent upon registration, but essentials include comfortable walking shoes or boots, collapsible hiking poles (also available for rent upon arrival), weather-appropriate layers, a small daypack, and a reusable water bottle. Casual evening wear for dinners is a nice change from hiking apparel!
-
The morning of checkout from each accommodation, your luggage will be transported to the next hotel. Your retreat includes the transfer of one piece of luggage weighing no more than 20 kilograms/44 pounds. Should you exceed the weight allowance or require the transfer of an extra bag, we can easily accommodate your needs for an extra fee.
Food & Dietary Needs
-
Breakfasts are included, while others meals allow you to explore local cafés and pubs. Reservations are made in advance for various establishments, especially due to traveling as a group. However, if you are interested in finding other dining options, you’re more than welcome to do so. Free days are a great option for this as well.
-
Yes! Please let us know your needs in advance, and we will do our best to ensure suitable meal options are on offer. The cuisine in the Cotswolds is noted for farm-to-table, seasonal, local fare, and there are usually plenty of options.
-
As far as a food budget goes, $100 US per day is more than sufficient. I typically spend about $500 on food for the week, and that usually includes one drink and dessert per day. Breakfasts are extremely hearty, filling, and complimentary. In addition, most women usually choose to enjoy one light meal and one larger meal each day. The portions are very generous and sometimes guests wind up splitting a number of sides/small plates at dinner, or sharing a main and then ordering dessert.
Experience & Activities
-
The retreat includes afternoon tea in a country manor house, cozy pub meals, teaching workshops, guided village explorations and visits to historic sites, as well as time for reflection and journaling.
-
Yes. While we walk as a group, there will be opportunities for quiet reflection, journaling, or simply soaking in the beauty of the countryside. While walking, the group spreads out some, but both myself and my co-leader (I always have one on every retreat) ensure that no one is left behind.
-
Yes, you’ll have some downtime to explore villages, browse shops, or relax at your accommodation. There are also free days woven into the itinerary, which are designed to enable you to sleep in and rest deeply, venture out to do some exploring, or both. You might want to book a tour of Sudeley Castle or Blenheim Palace, or visit a local distillery or farm shop. Sign up for horseback riding in the hills or enjoy a visit to a local spa. A list of options will be provided for you prior to travel.
Booking & Policies
-
Pricing varies depending on which retreat you’re interested in, room choice, and package options. Pricing will be provided upon inquiry.
-
Cancellation policies vary based on timing and circumstances and will be provided at the time of booking. Travel insurance is recommended to protect your investment.
-
Payment plans may be available—please inquire for details.
-
Each retreat includes:
accommodations from the first night of the retreat through the final night
transportation from London Heathrow to our starting point
transportation throughout the retreat
guided walks during the retreat
luggage transport between accommodations
all breakfasts
curated experiences such as visits to historic sites and retreat workshops
Guests are responsible for their airfare and personal expenses such as shopping, lunches, and dinners.
For retreat specifics or to book your spot on an upcoming Women’s Walking Retreats.