Willowbank Retreats

Welcome to Willowbank Retreats

We offer a welcoming, creatively nourishing environment where you can rest, write, and reconnect with yourself and your creative work, surrounded by nature, quiet and gentle rhythms. 

For writers, aspiring or professional, avid readers and book lovers. People who sketch or watercolour and those who would like to. Those recovering from burnout and transitions or simply seeking time out.

We hope you will leave for home feeling settled. Not in a fixed or finished way, but in a grounded, gently held way. You might have baked bread. Made marmalade. You might have written and sketched. A bit of Willowbank will follow you home.

View our 2026 dates

Join a small group for a long weekend of painting, baking, book sharing, country walks, sea swimming and nature bathing in the indulgent country-house warmth of Willowbank.
Find out more

There are retreats, and then there are sacred pauses.

Willowbank is a special place that runs at a gentle pace - less like a getaway, more like a returning. 

Time slows down at Willowbank. The hum of everyday life fades into the background, replaced by the soft rhythm of pages turning, keys tapping, the occasional kettle boiling in the kitchen, whispering stories of the past. 

Come to write. To read and sketch. To wander barefoot across the rolling lawn  down to the river. To sit beneath the apple tree in the dappled light and in the warm stillness of the orangery, where passionfruit vines curl lazily up the sun-warmed walls. 

The house itself holds a magic, old world charm, threaded through with rustic simplicity. Nothing looks precious yet everything feels treasured, from the mismatched tea cups, to the timeworn timber floors there is a deep welcome in every detail waiting for you.

Reviews of Willowbank

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The first time I set foot in Willowbank, I knew I had found somewhere special. It has a laid back charm which instantly made me feel at ease. Helen invites you to think of Willowbank as your home, there are no pretensions - it all feels comfortable and easy. It is a wonderful place to write, surrounded by like-spirited new friends. There is space to work alone or alongside others - with delicious food served in a relaxed way. The garden is restful and beautiful and the walks at Titchfield Haven were perfect when I needed to take a break from writing.

Willowbank is a truly enchanting grand home that offers a perfect blend of history, charm, comfort and adventure. Every corner of the house tells a story, brimming with character and history. The interiors are adorned with beautiful artworks and a variety of musical instruments, creating an ambiance that feels both cultured and welcoming. The true heart of this home, however, is Helen, the exceptional host. Her warmth, attentiveness and thoughtfulness made our stay unforgettable. Helen is not only a brilliant host but also a talented cook with an impressive background running cafes in London. She prepared an array of delicious meals for our group, showcasing her creativity and skill. From hearty soups and creamy risottos to divine desserts and her signature herbal roasted nuts, every dish was a treat.

Just got back from my second writing retreat at Willowbank, where some small miracle happened and I wrote again for the first time in a year or more. Possibly it was the house itself with its gentle and faded grandeur - something beautiful or intriguing to catch the imagination whichever way you turn. Possibly it was the garden where I sat under a cherry tree to write. Or the fact, when lost for a word or an idea, I could stroll across the lawn, taking in the scent of lavender and the hum of bees as I wondered down to the little stream at the bottom of the garden. Perhaps it was the other writers - Willowbank seems to attract an interesting bunch of people and the conversations around the dining table will keep me thinking for the next days and weeks. Not just the conversations - the support, understanding and morale. Or maybe it was Helen herself, keeping us well stocked with lovely, nurturing food and hospitality, and sprinkling her magic dust over everything. Thank you Helen and thank you Willowbank for a transformative few days.

I just wanted to thank you for such a lovely long weekend. The time spent with like minded individuals was invaluable. The individual spaces around the house and gardens to think and write were just what I needed. I really enjoyed wandering around the beautiful grounds looking at all the plants too. The house, gardens and dogs are all a complete joy and add to the feeling of total relaxation. I came away feeling restored and enthused.

The rooms are spacious with incredibly comfortable beds—I struggle to sleep in new places but I slept so well in years. The house strikes the perfect balance between grand and homely, making you feel instantly at ease. Whether you're looking for an escape to relax or an immersive experience surrounded by history, Willowbank offers it all. I cannot recommend this place enough. For anyone seeking a rejuvenating getaway with impeccable hospitality, Willowbank and Helen deliver an experience that’s nothing short of magical.

For me a major highlight was the food which was all delicious and there was always plenty. The walk to the beach and sound bath on the beach was really lovely...I'm struggling to think of any other things I'd improve as you were both so thoughtful. I will definitely come back again, it was a perfect little sanctuary. I've told everyone how wonderful my weekend was.

I keep thinking about what a lovely time we had at the weekend. Thank you for making it so special. I loved having something active in the morning and then allowing people to spend their afternoons as they wished. The house is unique and very special, what made it extra special were the fellow guests who were all so nice, lovely ladies, all with unique backgrounds. The food was out of this world and I loved the variety. Helen is a very exceptional cook and the flavours were stunning. I have taken inspiration and made some sweet potato and apple soup with my apple flurry. We very much want to come again, maybe a different season to see Willowbank in another beautiful light.

Food - delicious and plenty. House ambiance - amazing, loved the arty individual touches. Art in the orangery was great and the very simple thing of being given a small piece of watercolour paper to work on was good. This meant that I was able to produce and complete a piece of work which gave a sense of achievement. I loved the adhoc chats about the plays people were seeing and books they love. This was my first retreat, I really enjoyed it and will definitely do more retreats in the future.

The first time I set foot in Willowbank, I knew I had found somewhere special. It has a laid back charm which instantly made me feel at ease. Helen invites you to think of Willowbank as your home, there are no pretensions - it all feels comfortable and easy. It is a wonderful place to write, surrounded by like-spirited new friends. There is space to work alone or alongside others - with delicious food served in a relaxed way. The garden is restful and beautiful and the walks at Titchfield Haven were perfect when I needed to take a break from writing.

Willowbank is a truly enchanting grand home that offers a perfect blend of history, charm, comfort and adventure. Every corner of the house tells a story, brimming with character and history. The interiors are adorned with beautiful artworks and a variety of musical instruments, creating an ambiance that feels both cultured and welcoming. The true heart of this home, however, is Helen, the exceptional host. Her warmth, attentiveness and thoughtfulness made our stay unforgettable. Helen is not only a brilliant host but also a talented cook with an impressive background running cafes in London. She prepared an array of delicious meals for our group, showcasing her creativity and skill. From hearty soups and creamy risottos to divine desserts and her signature herbal roasted nuts, every dish was a treat.

Just got back from my second writing retreat at Willowbank, where some small miracle happened and I wrote again for the first time in a year or more. Possibly it was the house itself with its gentle and faded grandeur - something beautiful or intriguing to catch the imagination whichever way you turn. Possibly it was the garden where I sat under a cherry tree to write. Or the fact, when lost for a word or an idea, I could stroll across the lawn, taking in the scent of lavender and the hum of bees as I wondered down to the little stream at the bottom of the garden. Perhaps it was the other writers - Willowbank seems to attract an interesting bunch of people and the conversations around the dining table will keep me thinking for the next days and weeks. Not just the conversations - the support, understanding and morale. Or maybe it was Helen herself, keeping us well stocked with lovely, nurturing food and hospitality, and sprinkling her magic dust over everything. Thank you Helen and thank you Willowbank for a transformative few days.

I just wanted to thank you for such a lovely long weekend. The time spent with like minded individuals was invaluable. The individual spaces around the house and gardens to think and write were just what I needed. I really enjoyed wandering around the beautiful grounds looking at all the plants too. The house, gardens and dogs are all a complete joy and add to the feeling of total relaxation. I came away feeling restored and enthused.

The rooms are spacious with incredibly comfortable beds—I struggle to sleep in new places but I slept so well in years. The house strikes the perfect balance between grand and homely, making you feel instantly at ease. Whether you're looking for an escape to relax or an immersive experience surrounded by history, Willowbank offers it all. I cannot recommend this place enough. For anyone seeking a rejuvenating getaway with impeccable hospitality, Willowbank and Helen deliver an experience that’s nothing short of magical.

For me a major highlight was the food which was all delicious and there was always plenty. The walk to the beach and sound bath on the beach was really lovely...I'm struggling to think of any other things I'd improve as you were both so thoughtful. I will definitely come back again, it was a perfect little sanctuary. I've told everyone how wonderful my weekend was.

I keep thinking about what a lovely time we had at the weekend. Thank you for making it so special. I loved having something active in the morning and then allowing people to spend their afternoons as they wished. The house is unique and very special, what made it extra special were the fellow guests who were all so nice, lovely ladies, all with unique backgrounds. The food was out of this world and I loved the variety. Helen is a very exceptional cook and the flavours were stunning. I have taken inspiration and made some sweet potato and apple soup with my apple flurry. We very much want to come again, maybe a different season to see Willowbank in another beautiful light.

Food - delicious and plenty. House ambiance - amazing, loved the arty individual touches. Art in the orangery was great and the very simple thing of being given a small piece of watercolour paper to work on was good. This meant that I was able to produce and complete a piece of work which gave a sense of achievement. I loved the adhoc chats about the plays people were seeing and books they love. This was my first retreat, I really enjoyed it and will definitely do more retreats in the future.

The first time I set foot in Willowbank, I knew I had found somewhere special. It has a laid back charm which instantly made me feel at ease. Helen invites you to think of Willowbank as your home, there are no pretensions - it all feels comfortable and easy. It is a wonderful place to write, surrounded by like-spirited new friends. There is space to work alone or alongside others - with delicious food served in a relaxed way. The garden is restful and beautiful and the walks at Titchfield Haven were perfect when I needed to take a break from writing.

Willowbank is a truly enchanting grand home that offers a perfect blend of history, charm, comfort and adventure. Every corner of the house tells a story, brimming with character and history. The interiors are adorned with beautiful artworks and a variety of musical instruments, creating an ambiance that feels both cultured and welcoming. The true heart of this home, however, is Helen, the exceptional host. Her warmth, attentiveness and thoughtfulness made our stay unforgettable. Helen is not only a brilliant host but also a talented cook with an impressive background running cafes in London. She prepared an array of delicious meals for our group, showcasing her creativity and skill. From hearty soups and creamy risottos to divine desserts and her signature herbal roasted nuts, every dish was a treat.

Just got back from my second writing retreat at Willowbank, where some small miracle happened and I wrote again for the first time in a year or more. Possibly it was the house itself with its gentle and faded grandeur - something beautiful or intriguing to catch the imagination whichever way you turn. Possibly it was the garden where I sat under a cherry tree to write. Or the fact, when lost for a word or an idea, I could stroll across the lawn, taking in the scent of lavender and the hum of bees as I wondered down to the little stream at the bottom of the garden. Perhaps it was the other writers - Willowbank seems to attract an interesting bunch of people and the conversations around the dining table will keep me thinking for the next days and weeks. Not just the conversations - the support, understanding and morale. Or maybe it was Helen herself, keeping us well stocked with lovely, nurturing food and hospitality, and sprinkling her magic dust over everything. Thank you Helen and thank you Willowbank for a transformative few days.

I just wanted to thank you for such a lovely long weekend. The time spent with like minded individuals was invaluable. The individual spaces around the house and gardens to think and write were just what I needed. I really enjoyed wandering around the beautiful grounds looking at all the plants too. The house, gardens and dogs are all a complete joy and add to the feeling of total relaxation. I came away feeling restored and enthused.

The rooms are spacious with incredibly comfortable beds—I struggle to sleep in new places but I slept so well in years. The house strikes the perfect balance between grand and homely, making you feel instantly at ease. Whether you're looking for an escape to relax or an immersive experience surrounded by history, Willowbank offers it all. I cannot recommend this place enough. For anyone seeking a rejuvenating getaway with impeccable hospitality, Willowbank and Helen deliver an experience that’s nothing short of magical.

For me a major highlight was the food which was all delicious and there was always plenty. The walk to the beach and sound bath on the beach was really lovely...I'm struggling to think of any other things I'd improve as you were both so thoughtful. I will definitely come back again, it was a perfect little sanctuary. I've told everyone how wonderful my weekend was.

I keep thinking about what a lovely time we had at the weekend. Thank you for making it so special. I loved having something active in the morning and then allowing people to spend their afternoons as they wished. The house is unique and very special, what made it extra special were the fellow guests who were all so nice, lovely ladies, all with unique backgrounds. The food was out of this world and I loved the variety. Helen is a very exceptional cook and the flavours were stunning. I have taken inspiration and made some sweet potato and apple soup with my apple flurry. We very much want to come again, maybe a different season to see Willowbank in another beautiful light.

Food - delicious and plenty. House ambiance - amazing, loved the arty individual touches. Art in the orangery was great and the very simple thing of being given a small piece of watercolour paper to work on was good. This meant that I was able to produce and complete a piece of work which gave a sense of achievement. I loved the adhoc chats about the plays people were seeing and books they love. This was my first retreat, I really enjoyed it and will definitely do more retreats in the future.