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 15-19th, 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 manor, 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 historic manor, 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 600 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 manor!
Is This Retreat for You?
This retreat is thoughtfully designed for women who want to slow down and unwind in the serene beauty of the English countryside. It’s the perfect opportunity to dive into your TBR pile, discover new favorite reads, and savor quiet moments surrounded by inspiring landscapes.
Whether you’re traveling solo, coming with friends, or attending with a book club, you’ll enjoy a hassle-free experience with every detail thoughtfully planned. From cozy accommodations to curated activities, this retreat offers space to read, relax, and recharge at your own pace while sharing the experience with a supportive community of fellow book-loving women.
Exterior of large manor in Costswolds England
Countryside view from the Churchill Manor property
Exterior of large manor in Costswolds England
View property images here!
Location & Accommodation
Our countryside manor is near Chipping Norton, England known for its rolling hills, historic stone cottages, and a picturesque setting in the center of the Cotswolds.
You’ll stay in a charming private manor with:
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600 acres of countryside filled with gardens, a pool, and even a tennis court.
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Cozy rooms and nooks to cuddle up with a good book, TV room also with log fire and a cinema room.
The entire manor 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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Manor 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
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$2,680 per person, double occupancy
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$900 upgrade, single occupancy
We pair you with a compatible roommate or you can room with a friend. Solo travelers are welcome to upgrade for privacy.
Secure your spot with a 40% deposit ($1,024).
Full balance due by March 10, 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
Fly into Heathrow Airport (LHR), London, England. Plan to arrive by 1:20 pm on Friday, May 15th to join the group shuttle departing at 2:00 pm. The manor 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.
All rooms are double occupancy with king or queen beds. Unless you’re traveling with a friend or partner, we’ll pair you with a fellow retreat attendee. Occasionally, rooms with two beds are available, but this can’t be guaranteed. If you prefer privacy, you can upgrade to a single room for an additional fee.
To ensure a comfortable stay, please be considerate of your roommate regarding cleanliness and noise. Earplugs and eye masks will be provided. Travelers who use a CPAP machine or are aware of snoring may want to consider a single room upgrade.
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.
