AD (press visit) I was recently invited to visit Papilio House, a newly opened women’s retreat tucked away in the Cotswolds. From the moment I arrived, it felt like I was transported to a place of calm. It’s a quiet, sun-drenched hideaway surrounded by nature, it had that ‘Med in the UK’ kind of magic.
Set within a private estate in Bisley, Stroud, Papilio House is a sanctuary designed for transformation, relaxation, and personal growth. Whether you’re juggling work, family life, or simply feeling the weight of modern living, it offers something really special: space to slow down.
A Luxury Retreat, Reimagined
More than just a retreat, Papilio House feels like a luxury home-from-home. Think carefully curated interiors, soft light streaming through windows, and corners designed for calm. Founder Felicity Purchase-Hill has created something rare, a retreat experience that’s nurturing, elegant, and unpretentious. I stayed in the pool house which was perfect for that early morning swim. They also have elegant rooms situated in the main house, from beautifully pretty wallpapered rooms to a grand master with a listed pink bath – every space was gorgeous.
(Images Papilio House)
There’s a strong focus on wellbeing here, with everything from yoga and nature walks to creative workshops and therapies available. During my stay, I joined a crystal sound bath session, which was deeply restorative, something I didn’t know I needed until I lay still and let it all wash over me.
The Pool That Feels Like a Mediterranean Escape
It’s not often you get weather like this in the UK, but when the sun came out, the pool became the heart of the retreat. Surrounded by trees and with loungers lined up under parasols, it felt more like a boutique hideaway in southern Europe than the English countryside.
A morning coffee by the water. A swim with no time pressure. The quiet. That kind of simplicity is what made this stay so memorable.
The Food
One of the real highlights was the food. Everything was cooked fresh by the in-house chef, and served family style, long tables, shared platters, and food designed to bring people together. Think delicious, nutritious meals with lunches and dinners that felt relaxed and informal, but still really special.
Who It’s For
This isn’t a retreat where you feel like you need to ‘do’ anything. It’s for women looking to switch off, breathe, and just be. There’s no rigid schedule or pressure to join in with everything, just an open invitation to reconnect with yourself.
Papilio House is a deeply thoughtful place. You leave feeling lighter, like something has quietly shifted.
Love Sarah x
For a retreat with a difference one that gently restores you I can’t recommend it enough. For more information visit their website here: https://papiliohouse.com/
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