Tofte Manor
bedfordshire, england
Magical bespoke retreats for tranquillity and transformation
Tucked away in Bedfordshire countryside, yet just 60 miles from London, Tofte Manor offers private retreats for those craving solitude and looking to reconnect with themselves and nature. Stay in The Sanctuary, a charming cottage set amidst 50 acres of enchanting grounds, and experience exactly what you need at this time in your life, whether that’s healing with crystals, reiki, movement therapy, massage, forest bathing, wild swimming, yoga, meditation or doing nothing at all.
our Reviewer elly reid says:
‘Was it the energy of the crystals or Suzy’s naturally calm, empathic, intuitive nature that enabled me to connect with feelings of love, grief and forgiveness deep within? Either way, the experience was transformative’
Queen of Retreats says:
‘Retreat host Suzy Castleman is a crystal healer and labyrinth facilitator, who provides energetic healing with a focus on deep soul connection – her work is hugely transformative. She’ll also guide you on how to use labyrinths as a tool for contemplation and self-healing. Be sure to make time for moments of solitude in the beautiful outdoors’
Experiences
Private bespoke retreats are tailored to meet your needs. Every guest is treated individually. Suzy will have a chat with you before the retreat to ascertain how you are feeling, why you need a retreat and which treatments would be most beneficial to you at this stage of your life.
Yoga, meditation, crystal healing, sound healing, movement meditation, psychotherapy, reflexology, various massage therapists, guided labyrinth walks, forest bathing, breathwork, mindfulness, Reiki healing, firepit ceremonies and much more can be booked during your stay.
Nature beckons you at Tofte Manor so wander through meadows and listen to birdsong. Roam through the 50 acres of fields and local woods, marvel at beautiful gardens and look out for playful sculptures, stunning swings, wooden tables and meditation spots, as well as quirky carved characters.
You can also take a dip in the swimming pool or have a game of tennis on the tennis court. Do some star-gazing, go bird or animal-spotting or court your muse with painting, drawing, modelling and journalling.
Try cold water swimming nearby at Castle Ashby or visit the quiet market town of Olney, about 20 minutes away. Be sure to incorporate a digital detox - the cottage has mobile reception but no WiFi.
Spaces
Tofte Manor is based near Sharnbrook, a pretty village through which the River Ouse flows. It comprises a 17th century Manor House set in 50 acres of verdant grounds.
Using sacred geometry and crystals, the whole venue has been energetically designed to hold sacred, safe space where people can let go, stop and reconnect. The elements – earth, air, fire and water – are represented in the earth and star labyrinths, the sound chimes, the fire pit and the water you drink.
Your base will be The Sanctuary, a beautiful, tranquil, comfortable cottage set away from the Manor House. The Sanctuary is totally self-contained with a fully equipped kitchen and a lovely separate shower room. It’s heated with far infrared heating which keeps it beautifully warm whilst helping the body to detox and build a healthy immune system.
Inside you’ll find beautiful African artefacts, animal and bird guides, and binoculars. There are also painting, drawing, modelling and journalling materials.
Within the grounds there are two labyrinths - The Earth and Star labyrinths, which represent the yin and yang, the above and below, and the masculine and the feminine, as well as all the elements. Scattered around, you’ll discover stunning swings, giant, wooden tables and chairs, a wooden Star bed and a carved Green Man and Woman.
Sustenance
The cottage is self-catering but has basic food supplies, such as tea, coffee, bread, butter, milk, granola and eggs. You’ll have your own giant outdoor dining table and BBQ.
You can arrange a vegetarian, pre-prepared food package for your arrival – this might include chickpea and cauliflower curry, rice and beans, plantain, slaw and salad with a homemade dressing, followed by an exquisite Jamaican ginger cupcake topped with zesty lemon icing.
If you want to self-cater, you can organise a supermarket delivery. Alternatively, good, local supermarkets only 20 minutes away and there is a small Co-operative in the village.
The venue's own well water is purified, energised and delicious, and is freely available to guests.
The retreat encourages a no-alcohol approach but that is left to your discretion. No red wine is allowed.
