It’s easy to forget the importance of self-care. That’s why I believe everyone should indulge in a little ‘me time’ now and then, and what better way to do so than with a rejuvenating getaway?
My recent escape was to the picturesque Avebury in Wiltshire. Nestled within the breathtaking Avebury World Heritage Site is The Farm at Avebury, a tranquil haven where ancient history meets modern comfort.
As I arrived one Sunday morning, I was immediately captivated by the majestic Silbury Hill looming in the distance, its enigmatic presence setting the stage for my overnight stay.
Silbury Hill, is the largest artificial mound in Europe, and I was surprised to learn that it compares in height and volume to the contemporary Egyptian pyramids. It was probably completed in around 2400 BC and although its significance remain unknown it sits right on the doorstep of the place I was staying.
The breath work Session
My day began with a transformative Wim Hof breathwork session led by Andy MacKenzie, their resident expert in the renowned Wim Hof Method. Set in one of their two barns, the session offered a profound opportunity to reconnect with myself and harness the power of intentional breathing. With each inhale and exhale, you feel a sense of clarity and it definitely paved the way for deep relaxation and inner peace.
I had tried this before a couple of years ago. I alway intend to keep up my practice, however life sometimes gets in the way of those well meaning intentions. If you haven’t tried Wim Hof breath work, I definitely recommend it.
Today was just a breath work session but Andy does offer longer sessions to include the ice bath afterwards, this is definitely on my bucket list!
What is Wim How breathwork?
The Wim Hof Method consists of three pillars. These pillars form the foundations of the method. They consist of breathing exercises, exposure to cold, and the commitment to practice these exercises consistently. When you start practicing, you will see the significant positive effects on your physical and mental health right away.
Today was about the first pillar- breathing. We’re always breathing, yet we’re mostly unaware of its tremendous potential. Heightened oxygen levels hold a treasure trove of benefits, and the specialised breathing technique of the Wim Hof Method® unearths them all: more energy, reduced stress levels, and an augmented immune response that swiftly deals with pathogens.
The way you breathe has an impact on the physiology and chemistry of your body. Forceful breathing, followed by breath holding, alters body chemistry, causing temporary alkalosis and activating the innate stress response, forcing positive adaptations.
After a few rounds of this type of breath work you can find yourself able to hold your breath for an astonishing 2 minutes!
The combination of the three pillars. A committed, consistent practice including the breathing technique and cold exposure can help you unlock a host of benefits including;
- Increased energy
- Better sleep
- Reduced stress levels
- Heightened focus & determination
- Increased willpower
- Stronger immune system
I have experienced the cold water therapy after a session, not quite ice but sea swimming in April, and I must say I felt incredible afterwards. Next step will be the ice bath!
Staying in the Stables
Following the invigorating session, I retreated to my charming accommodation nestled within the quaint stables of The Farm. From the cosy courtyard to the well-appointed interiors, every detail exuded warmth and hospitality. As I enjoyed the tranquility of my surroundings, I looked forward to indulging in a few self-care activities, from leisurely strolls through the farm to moments of quiet reflection.
The accommodation was fully equipped with everything you might need for a self-catering holiday. There was every kind of kitchen utensil and a few cookery books to help get you inspired. The Stables, made up of six luxury hideaways and courtyard create the perfect setting for solo travellers, romantic weekends away, family holidays and even group events.
I also love that this is self-catering with a twist: they can deliver produce from their farm direct to your stable door, including bacon and sausages for your morning breakfast or succulent steak from their herd of grass-fed, Wiltshire cows.
About The Farm at Avebury
Or Galteemore Farm as it’s been known since the 1890s. The farm has been farmed by the Hues’, since 1922.
They are the fourth generation of Hues’ to take on the running of the farm and it is a responsibility that they take very seriously. They see themselves as custodians of the land, charged with protecting it for future generations to come. They have three daughters and hope that one day, they can pass the reins, and tractors, onto one (or maybe two?) of them.
The breathwork session that took place in one of their two barns, holds everything from exercise classes and shoot lunches, to group celebrations and corporate away days, between their two barns have everything you need for special events and more. The Granary seats 10 and The Barn seats up to 42 on two long tables.
Before dinner I went on a short walk, there are lots of walking options from the Farm, they even have a beautifully designed walking guide book with routes catering from little legs to avid trekkers.
My walk was to visit their animals, I checked out their lovely orchard play area for children and then took a short stroll to the The Waggon & Horses, their closest pub, just a few minutes walk.
After dinner I spent a couple of hours playing my Self Mastery Game. I love solo travelling, you get to spend time doing things that at home you never seem to have time to do, journaling, reading, painting, meditating…
That night I slept like a baby, with the moon shining through the skylight, the peace and quiet and a very comfortable bed.
The following morning, fuelled by freshly baked sourdough and local apple juice, I set out to explore the ancient wonders of Avebury. From the awe-inspiring stones to the enigmatic Avebury henge, each site offered a glimpse into Britain’s rich Neolithic heritage. As I wandered through this sacred landscape, I couldn’t help but feel a profound sense of connection to the past, a reminder of the timeless beauty that surrounds us.
There is so much to do in the area, too many to list and being close to Bristol, Bath and Stonehenge, there are options for everyone to enjoy.
There is a fabulous list on the Farm website to give you lots of ideas for your stay. https://www.thefarmatavebury.co.uk/local-activities
I absolutely love this place, it was so welcoming and the perfect stay for exploring the stone circles and the surrounding countryside. I’ll definitely be back in the Summer with the rest of the family, perhaps next time I might even book the Wim Hof ice bath session with Andy!
About the Farm
The stables have been transformed into six luxury self-catering homes, you’ll find them clustered around a landscaped courtyard — with plenty of communal seating and dining spaces in amongst the planting. In fair weather, larger parties can come together under a softly lit pergola.
No two stables are the same, but all are an elevated home away from home with their own cooking and dining facilities. You’ll find our Avebury accommodation just an hour and a half from London, near Marlborough.
Prices from £104 per night
Things to Do
The Farm at Avebury offers a tranquil base to relax and unwind but there’s also plenty of opportunity to take part in experiences and workshops either at the farm or with one of our neighbours for a day trip! Try Wim Hof, Sourdough baking or cookery classes there are lots of lovely experiences available https://www.thefarmatavebury.co.uk/experiences
How to find the Farm
The Farm at Avebury
Galteemore Farm
Beckhampton
Wiltshire, SN8 1FE
- Other info
- Dog-friendly
- EV charger available
- Indoor play barn for rainy days
- Outdoor play area
About Avebury henge and stone circles
Avebury henge and stone circles are one of the greatest marvels of prehistoric Britain. Built and much altered during the Neolithic period, roughly between 2850 BC and 2200 BC, the henge survives as a huge circular bank and ditch, encircling an area that includes part of Avebury village. Within the henge is the largest stone circle in Britain – originally of about 100 stones – which in turn encloses two smaller stone circles.
Avebury is part of an extraordinary set of Neolithic and Bronze Age ceremonial sites that seemingly formed a vast sacred landscape. They include West Kennet Avenue, West Kennet Long Barrow, The Sanctuary, Windmill Hill, and the mysterious Silbury Hill. Many can be reached on foot from the village. The Alexander Keiller Museum also displays many notable finds from the Avebury monuments. Together with Stonehenge, Avebury and its surroundings are a World Heritage Site.
I recommend walking from the farm, it is only a 25 minute walk otherwise the charged car park at Avebury is managed by the National Trust, but is free to English Heritage members displaying a car sticker.
For more Farm Stays around the UK visit www.farmstay.co.uk
