Birch

The highlights

• From pottery classes to hikes, screenings to BBQ parties, Birch is a place to connect with a long term dream or lose yourself in an adventure curated by experts.
• With a serious commitment to reducing and reusing resources, Birch uses sustainable practices, makes use of local materials and grows all food and ingredients on-site where feasible, on purpose-run farms.
• From company retreats to writing workshops, Birch would be delighted to work with you to ensure that your excursion is successful and restorative.
• Swim, learn about beekeeping, write, dance and make music; there is no limit to the creative and mindful endeavours on offer here at our sprawling Hertfordshire estate.

You should know

• Several courses have supplementary costs and age restrictions.
• The DJ cube only runs three nights a week.

The detail

Nestled in a spacious, sprawling, campus-style retreat, Birch is a one of a kind shared space with accommodation available for anybody looking to unplug from contemporary urban strife and get back to nature in comfort. With bookable bedrooms and a range of wholesome creative endeavours, from daily sourdough baking workshops to DJ parties, Birch really is the ultimate getaway for anybody looking to work on a project, escape from city life, or unwind with like-minded makers and craftspeople.

The accommodation is a stunningly created reflection of the Birch values, with clean lines, bright, open spaces, and no televisions or other distractions. Individual travellers can book single, simple rooms, with comfortable beds, a bath and shower, and light-filled open spaces located within the main building. Groups tend to opt for Bunk, which offers a large double bed and a bunk pod as well as a private bathroom, so families or friends of up to four can room together, while couples have the option of rooms with double beds or twin singles. Popular with back-to-nature fanatics, the timber-clad Planted cabin is truly special, a tranquil and pleasingly crafted tiny-house style cottage in a meadow, with organic bed linen and locally crafted furniture.

Rise when you please and take in the day from your own clear and pleasing bedroom, then head out to begin your day, alone or with colleagues, friends or co-operators. As a guest at Birch, you'll have access to the full array of resources and spaces, from the Screening room for presentations, films and other media, to the unique Wellness space, as well as of course the Co-Working space. Drop into any classes taking place, or head to the bakery to join in with the daily sourdough session. People stay at Birch for a variety of reasons, some looking for a space for their team to collaborate on a project free from the rigidity of the workplace, others retreating from connectivity in order to work on creative plans.

This is an ideal spot for families looking to spend time together in a wholesome and outdoorsy festival space to individual travellers and couples drawn to the laid back vibe and opportunity to try new activities in a welcoming environment. As well as the courses, on-site you'll find three world-class bars, two brilliant restaurants where expert chefs create fantastic dishes using seasonal farm produce grown on site, and a range of improvised spaces, like the outdoor tipi. From a formal high-end sit down meal to a casual pizza with local wine, there's something for everyone here at Birch.

Features

Essential