Forest of Dean Winter Wild Weekend — a midwinter reset of bushcraft, yoga and fireside talks

PARKEND SELF-GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE

Forest of Dean Winter Wild Weekend — a midwinter reset of bushcraft, yoga and fireside talks

A women-only, self-guided retreat at Deanfield Outdoor Centre that combines outdoor skills, yoga, communal meals and cozy accommodation — this guide distils what to expect and how to prepare.

Forest of Dean Winter Wild Weekend — a midwinter reset of bushcraft, yoga and fireside talks.

Duration
Contact operator
Location
Parkend
Operator
Love Her Wild CIC
Category
Self-Guided Tour
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

The Winter Wild Weekend is a mid‑winter, women‑only retreat in the Forest of Dean that blends outdoor adventure, bushcraft, yoga and inspirational talks with cosy communal accommodation and shared meals at the Deanfield Outdoor Centre.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE PROGRAM

A flexible weekend of skills, movement and conversation

Expect a mix of adventurous activities, bushcraft sessions, yoga or meditation workshops, inspiration talks and practical outdoor‑skills and personal‑development workshops — the final schedule is released nearer the event so you can pick the sessions that suit you.

THE SETTING

Deanfield at the heart of the Forest of Dean

The event takes place at Deanfield Outdoor Centre, deep in the Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire, where the group has exclusive use of the centre, its private gardens and facilities.

THE COMFORTS

Cozy communal base, warm showers and drying room

Accommodation is comfortable and centrally heated across twenty‑two bedrooms (most people share a room); the venue offers a cosy lounge, dining room, ample hot showers, private washrooms and a heated drying room for wet coats.

What the day feels like

What the weekend feels like

The Winter Wild Weekend unfolds as a short, contained escape: arrival early on Friday evening, two full days of chosen activities and workshops, and a final morning of reflection before a lunchtime finish on Sunday — all delivered in an intimate, women‑only setting designed to combine learning, laughter and restorative downtime.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this weekend suits — and who should think twice.

1
Solo women travellersDesigned for women travelling alone: most attendees come on their own and the entire weekend — staff included — is women‑only, creating a supportive environment for meeting others.
2
Skill‑seekers and community seekersIdeal for women who want hands‑on bushcraft, outdoor skills, yoga and inspiring talks while also enjoying communal meals and shared downtime.
3
Those who need private rooms or strict accessibilityNot ideal for travellers who require single private accommodation or have accessibility needs tied to private facilities: accommodation is spread across twenty‑two bedrooms and most rooms are shared.
4
Parents and pet ownersChildren and dogs are not permitted unless you have a very young baby who cannot yet be separated from mum — contact the organisers before booking to discuss any baby arrangements.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

What to Bring

Personal items such as appropriate clothing, sturdy footwear and waterproofs are not included and should be brought by each guest.

Clothing and kit tips

Pack layers for winter conditions and clothes that can get muddy or wet; there is a heated drying room on site for wet coats and boots.

Meals and bedding

While meals and bedding are included, bring any necessary personal items; let organisers know about dietary requirements or allergies when booking.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

Who can attend the Winter Wild Weekend?

The event is women‑only from start to finish, including staff; please contact the organisers if you have questions about specific circumstances.

When does the weekend start and finish?

The weekend begins early on Friday evening and finishes at lunchtime on Sunday.

What is included in the ticket price?

Tickets include accommodation and bedding, all activities (and safety equipment), talks and workshops, and vegetarian or vegan meals for the weekend.

Can I bring children or pets?

Children and dogs are not allowed, except for a very young baby who cannot yet leave mum — you must email organisers to discuss such arrangements before booking.

What if I have dietary requirements or allergies?

Inform organisers at booking; they will do their best to accommodate dietary requirements and allergies but the kitchens cannot always guarantee a 100% allergen‑free environment.

Can I get a refund or transfer my ticket?

No — because Love Her Wild runs weekends at cost to keep them affordable, tickets are non‑refundable and non‑transferable once booked.

Is alcohol allowed at the event?

No — the weekend is alcohol‑free due to the nature of the adventure activities on offer.

Is there a discount available?

LHW Patrons receive a £20 discount on the ticket price; details are available from Love Her Wild.