Once everyone arrives and settles in, the day begins with a warm welcome and a wild herbal tea freshly brewed over the fire. You'll be invited to take part in a slow-paced foraging walk, learning about plants traditionally used for teas, oils, and gentle remedies. Along the way, your instructor will guide you in identifying useful species and show you how to gather them responsibly. Back at basecamp, you’ll move into the fire lighting session, using natural materials to build and light a group fire together.
Midday is spent around the fire preparing and enjoying a simple lunch, cooked over the flames using traditional methods. While the food is cooking, there’s time to try whittling or woodland crafts using materials sourced from the surrounding area. The sauna is warmed throughout the day and opens in the afternoon. A shared bathing ritual follows, including heat, cold water rinses, and periods of quiet rest in the woods. The session closes with a short guided reflection before heading home.
The retreat is held at Park in the Past, a unique outdoor heritage and nature space in Hope, near Wrexham, North Wales. This hidden gem includes a reconstructed Roman fortress, large freshwater lake, and quiet woodland trails. The site is managed for both conservation and education, offering a peaceful setting with excellent facilities including compost loos, covered spaces, and a fire circle. There is free parking and easy access from Chester, Mold, or Wrexham.
Surrounded by trees and birdsong, the woodland area is set slightly apart from the main park and feels like a world of its own. Although remote in feel, the site is easily reached by car and sits within 10 minutes of the A55. Full joining details, including meeting point and what to bring, are provided on booking.
No prior experience is needed to join this retreat. It is suitable for anyone comfortable being outdoors for several hours and able to walk short distances on uneven ground.
Participants should be open to taking part in group activities and spending time in silence, as both are included throughout the day. Everything is optional, and you can take things at your own pace.
The retreat is run by experienced outdoor educators with a background in both bushcraft and wellness practices. Activities are structured around seasonal changes and guided with care and sensitivity. You're encouraged to slow down, take notice of your surroundings, and find personal meaning in each task.
The team believe time in nature should be nurturing and accessible. Everything is provided for you to feel safe, supported, and welcomed—whether it’s your first time trying woodland sauna, or you're already comfortable with natural living skills. Group sizes are kept small so everyone receives personal attention, and the whole day is designed to leave you feeling refreshed and grounded.
Guests tend to be individuals or pairs who want a break from fast-paced daily life. Some come with friends, others alone, and all are welcomed into a gentle, respectful space.
There’s no need to arrive with prior knowledge or a particular goal. The day is about experiencing the moment rather than achieving something specific. Many leave feeling calm, refreshed, and more grounded.
You’ll spend the full day outdoors, but the fire, shared activities, and sauna time help keep everyone warm. As long as you bring appropriate clothing, comfort is easy to maintain.
We recommend layers, waterproofs, and a spare towel or two. If weather conditions become unsafe, the session will be rescheduled.
Absolutely not. Both are offered, but optional. If you're more comfortable observing or resting by the fire, that’s encouraged too. This is your retreat, and nothing is forced.
People often change their minds once they see how the sauna is run—calmly, privately, and without pressure. The cold dip is done individually or in pairs, never in a group setting.
Lunch is based on seasonal ingredients, often with a foraged or locally sourced focus. You’ll take part in preparing and cooking it over the fire, which adds to the relaxed pace of the day.
Dietary needs can be catered for with notice, including vegetarian and gluten-free options. You’ll need to inform the organisers in advance if you have specific requirements.
Yes, the woodland has access to a compost toilet and a simple washing station. While basic, they are well-kept and maintained for comfort.
We suggest bringing your own hand sanitiser and a small towel if you prefer extra freshness after sauna use.
Comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing is essential. Think layers, waterproofs, and shoes suitable for muddy or uneven terrain. A swimsuit and towel are needed for the sauna.
You might also want a water bottle, snacks, or a notebook. Everything else is provided for the activities, including craft materials and cooking equipment.
About the centre
Wrexham
We partner with Rewilding Britain to help protect our natural spaces for future adventures.
All centres are vetted for safety and quality. Your adventure is in good hands with adventuro.
Operated by Woodland Classroom, a partner of adventuro.
