Due to the demand, we've opened a second Reading Retreat in the Cotswolds, England. The perfect setting to read and rest, whether you’re sipping tea by the fire, strolling through the garden, or sharing conversation with new friends.
Join us May 21-25th, 2026 in the heart of the Cotswolds for a 5-day, 4-night women’s-only Reading Retreat surrounded by rolling green hills, honey-colored stone villages, and timeless English charm.
We’ll spend five days tucked away in a stunning countryside home, complete with a private tennis court, swimming pool, gardens, and cozy corners perfect for getting lost in a good book. This retreat is designed for women who crave a slower pace, a bit of solitude, and the kind of travel experience that feels like stepping inside a novel.
What to Expect
At our modern countryside home, you’ll be cared for with:
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Comfortable accommodations in the countryside with gardens to wander and a pool to lounge by.
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Chef-prepared breakfasts and dinners, plus all on-property drinks included
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Airport transfers to and from Heathrow International Airport in London (LHR)
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A welcoming retreat host to take care of all the details
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Optional daily activities such as touring local castles and wandering idyllic villages
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Uninterrupted reading time, cozy spaces to relax, and 7 acres of gardens and property to wander
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A book exchange PLUS a local bookstore visit to spark your reading list
Our flexible itinerary is designed to balance relaxation and adventure. You choose how much (or how little) you want to do.
This is our countryside home!
Is This Retreat for You?
This trip is thoughtfully created for women travelers who want:
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To slow down and unwind in a beautiful, countryside location
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To dive into their TBR pile or discover new favorite reads
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To connect with a supportive group of book-loving women
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A hassle-free travel experience with expert planning and care
Whether you’re a solo traveler, coming with friends, or part of a book club, this retreat offers space to read, relax, and recharge at your own pace.
Scroll property images here!
Location & Accommodation
Our countryside home is in Oxfordshire, England, the heart of the Cotswold, known for its rolling hills, historic stone cottages, and picturesque views.
You’ll stay in a modern home with:
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70 acres of countryside filled with gardens, a pool, and even a tennis court.
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Modernly designed rooms with nooks to cuddle up with a good book, and even a library to explore.
The entire home is exclusively for our group!
What's Included
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Professional retreat host & on-site support
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5 days, 4 nights accommodation at the manor
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4 continental breakfasts and chef-prepared dinners
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Some lunches provided on day excursions, but not all
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All on-property beverages
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Round-trip airport transportation (LHR airport)
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Welcome bag and book exchange
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4 included optional group activities such as castle tours, tour of a historic manor, and a village walk)
What's Not Included
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Flights to and from London, England
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Travel insurance (highly requested)
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Off-site meals and drinks not specified
If you'd like to extend your say pre- or post-Reading Retreat, we can provide recommendations or help you to do so. Email us at reservations@slowtravelco.com. We’re happy to arrange them for you!
Sample Itinerary
(subject to change)
Day 1
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Arrival and group transfer from LHR Airport (meet at 2:00 pm for transfer)
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Check-in & welcome gift
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Property tour and introductions with a group book exchange
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Chef-prepared dinner and evening at leisure
Day 3
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Continental breakfast
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Optional castle tour
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Lunch in town (on your own)
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Afternoon reading and relaxation
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Group dinner at the manor
Day 2
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Continental breakfast
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Relaxation and reading time
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Group excursion into town with lunch (on your own)
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Private book store visit
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Chef-prepared dinner and evening at leisure
Day 4
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Continental breakfast
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Optional tour of historic home and local farm with lunch (on your own)
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Reading and relaxation time
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Group dinner at the manor
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Evening at your leisure
Day 5
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Continental breakfast
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Departure transfer to the airport at 8:00 am (arrival at the LHR airport around 10:00 am)
Pricing & Booking
$2,880 per person, single occupancy. Only four rooms available.
$2,100 per person, double occupancy (twin beds). Only one room available.
Most bedrooms at this property are single occupancy with a double-sized bed. There is one (small) room with twins beds at a discounted price, so if you're traveling with someone and would like to room together this is a great option!
Secure your spot with a 40% deposit ($1,152 for single occupancy, $840 for double occupancy).
Full balance due by March 17, 2026.
Deposits are non-refundable.
Retreat will be confirmed once 80% of spots are filled. If minimum numbers are not met, deposits can be refunded or applied to a future trip.
It's recommended to not book your flight until the retreat has been confirmed.
Getting There
Arrive at Heathrow Airport (LHR), London, England. Plan to arrive by 1:20 pm on Thursday, May 21st to join the group shuttle departing at 2:00 pm. The home is approximately a 2-hour drive from the airport.
If your arrival plans differ, please let us know. You may need to arrange your own transport.
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Light layers and a cozy sweater (spring weather can vary)
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Comfortable shoes for countryside walks and exploring villages
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A light rain jacket or umbrella (it is England, after all!)
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Swimwear if you’d like to enjoy the pool
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Your favorite books
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A book you’ve loved to exchange during dinner on night one
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Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
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Any personal essentials or medications
Towels, shampoo, conditioner, hair dryers, eye masks, and earplugs will be provided. A full packing list will be provided prior to departure.
And be sure to have extra room in your luggage for your gift bag and other bookish goodies!
What to Bring
Money & Spending
Most places in England accept credit cards—Visa and Mastercard are recommended. It’s also a good idea to carry around $50 USD in cash for small purchases or emergencies. You’re welcome to bring British Pounds or Euros if you prefer, but there are ATMs at the airport where you can withdraw local currency once you arrive.
Group travel with Slow Travel Co. is all about ease and connection. Your Retreat Host will handle all logistics and coordination during the trip, so you can relax and focus on enjoying your experience. If you have questions or need help at any time, your host is just a message away!
Traveling as Part of a Group
Meal Plan & Dietary Restrictions
Each day begins with a light continental breakfast, and dinners are prepared by our private chef. Some lunches will be provided on our daytime excursions, but not all. If you have dietary restrictions, follow a vegan or gluten-free diet, or have severe allergies, please notify us at reservations@slowtravelco.com at least 30 days before departure so we can accommodate you.
For this property, most rooms are for one single person with double-sized beds. Two rooms are available with twin beds, so if you're traveling as a group, I may be able to put you together. .
To ensure a comfortable stay, please be considerate of your roommate regarding cleanliness and noise. Earplugs and eye masks will be provided.
Shared Rooms & Accommodations
Getting to Know the Group
Before the retreat, we’ll set up a private WhatsApp group so you can connect with your fellow travelers. Feel free to chat, share excitement, or arrange virtual meetups ahead of time!
Your Retreat Host is an experienced traveler and will manage all aspects of the trip — from planning to on-site coordination. She is your primary contact for questions or support before and during the retreat. After booking, expect a friendly welcome email with more details like packing tips and travel info.
Please note, your Retreat Host is not a medical professional and cannot provide medical advice. If you feel unwell, she can help direct you to local healthcare providers.
Your Group Leader & Support
Safety
While we take every precaution to ensure safe activities and excursions, please remember your own responsibility for personal safety. Avoid going out alone at night and follow all safety recommendations.
Travel insurance is highly recommended for this retreat. If you need recommendations on reliable providers, just reach out. We’re happy to help!
Travel Insurance
Medical & Health Requirements
All travelers must have valid medical insurance
before departure.
May in the Cotswolds brings mild spring weather, with temperatures typically ranging from 50°F (10°C) at night to 65°F (18°C) during the day. Expect blooming countryside views, occasional light rain, and plenty of fresh air. Be sure to check the local forecast before packing so you’re ready for both sunshine and a little English drizzle.
Climate & What to Expect
House Guidelines
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Please be respectful of your roommate and fellow guests.
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No visitors or guests allowed at the manor without prior approval from the Retreat Host and your roommate.
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Help us keep the space safe and welcoming for everyone.
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No smoking.
