10-Day Ayurvedic Cleansing and Wellness Retreat in the Wye Valley, UK

This is a deep, traditional Ayurvedic retreat rather than a surface-level wellness holiday. The core of the program is Panchakarma, a five-action detox that includes oil massages (Abhyanga), herbal steam baths (Svedana), and other cleansing treatments like Nasya and Basti, all administered under the supervision of Dr. Pooja Amin, the resident Ayurvedic doctor. You'll have a consultation at the beginning to determine your unique dosha imbalance, and your treatment plan and diet will be adjusted accordingly throughout your stay.

The daily rhythm is designed to support the detox: you'll start with Buddhist chanting and meditation, have a light breakfast, and then either receive your treatment or join a yoga class. The afternoons are filled with workshops to teach you tools for wellbeing—cookery classes, Ayurveda talks, walking meditations in the adjacent countryside. There's also plenty of free time to read, rest, or wander the property's gardens and by the river.

The setting is central to the experience. Ruxton Farm is a 17th-century farmhouse with beamed ceilings and a characterful, homely feel, set within the Wye Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The river runs along the edge of the property, and you're surrounded by fields, orchards, and a veggie garden that supplies much of the food.

What makes it stand out is the authenticity of the Ayurveda and the sense of purpose. The team, led by founder Ishara, is deeply committed to Buddhist philosophy and the practice of kindness, and the retreat operates as a social enterprise. You're not just a guest; you're supporting a charity (the Metta Trust) that funds schools, hospitals, and reforestation in Sri Lanka, which lends the whole week a grounded, meaningful feel.

What's included

- 9 nights accommodation in a beautiful countryside farmhouse - 3 daily delicious and nutritious Ayurvedic meals - Daily Buddhist chanting and meditation sessions - Ayurvedic doctor consultation at the beginning and end of the retreat - Personalised Ayurvedic herbal medicines - 3 full-body Abhyanga oil massages - 3 herbal steam baths (Svedana) - 1 Nasya treatment - 2 Basti (medicated enema) treatments - 1 herbal body scrub and body pack - Daily yoga classes - Daily afternoon activities (cookery classes, Ayurveda talks, walking meditations) - Daily evening activities (Yoga Nidra, guided meditations, sound baths) - Free bike hire for one time - Free on-site parking - Wi-Fi connection - Cosy lounge and library to use

What's not included

- Airport transfers - Flights - Travel insurance - Visa fees - Additional treatments (such as life coaching, extra Ayurveda massages) - Personal expenses - Transport to and from the retreat