Farm & Workshops FAQ
Where is Soul and Soil located?
Soul & Soil is based at Whasdyke Farm, approximately one and a half miles from the centre of Windermere, in the heart of the Lake District, Cumbria.Our peaceful countryside setting is just a few minutes' drive from Windermere, surrounded by beautiful farmland and nature.
The nearest train station is Windermere, and the nearest bus stop is at Ings. Please allow approximately 30 to 40 minutes to walk from either location.
For detailed directions, please visit our How to Find Us page.
Can I reach Soul and Soil by public transport?
Yes! Soul & Soil is located at Whasdyke Farm, near Windermere in the Lake District.The nearest railway station is Windermere, and the nearest bus stop is in Ings. Both are approximately a 30-minute walk from the farm.
If you're travelling by public transport, please contact us if you need help planning your journey. We're happy to provide walking directions and local travel advice.
Is there parking at Soul and Soil?
Yes! Free parking is available for all guests attending workshops and experiences at Soul & Soil.
We have plenty of parking space at Whasdyke Farm, near Windermere, so you can arrive comfortably and enjoy your visit without worrying about parking charges.
How do I book a workshop?
You can explore our upcoming creative workshops and wellbeing experiences on the What's On page of our website.
Simply choose the experience that interests you and follow the booking link to check available dates and reserve your place.
If you're interested in arranging a private workshop, birthday celebration or hen party in the Lake District, please contact us directly to discuss your preferred experience, group size and availability.
We recommend booking in advance, as spaces are limited and private experiences are arranged individually.
Are your workshops suitable for beginners?
Absolutely! Our creative workshops at Soul & Soil are designed to be welcoming and enjoyable, including for those with little or no previous experience.
Whether you're trying beeswax candle making for the first time or exploring a new creative activity, you'll be guided through the experience in a relaxed and supportive environment.
Our workshops are about enjoying the process, learning something new and taking time away from the everyday rush. You don't need to be particularly artistic or creative to join us!
What should I wear?
We recommend wearing comfortable clothing and practical footwear when visiting Soul & Soil at Whasdyke Farm, near Windermere.
As we're based in a countryside setting, some outdoor areas may be uneven or muddy, particularly during wetter months.
For creative workshops, we suggest wearing clothes you don't mind getting a little messy.
If you're attending a horse-led meditation session, please check the specific clothing and footwear guidance provided for that experience.
Are refreshments provided?
Yes! At Soul & Soil, we want your visit to feel relaxed and welcoming.
Hot drinks and homemade biscuits can be enjoyed in our cosy barn, offering a lovely opportunity to unwind and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of Whasdyke Farm, near Windermere.
Refreshments may vary depending on the workshop or experience, so please check the details of your chosen activity to see what's included.
Can I buy a Soul & Soil experience as a gift voucher?
Yes! Soul & Soil gift vouchers make thoughtful presents for birthdays, Christmas, anniversaries and other special occasions.
Whether you're treating someone who loves getting creative, enjoys spending time in nature or simply deserves a little time to unwind, our creative workshops and wellbeing experiences near Windermere offer something a little different.
Gift vouchers are a lovely way to give someone an experience to look forward to, rather than another material gift.
Visit our Gift Vouchers page to explore the available options, or contact us if you have any questions. Yes, we offer gift vouchers which can be used towards our workshops and experiences. Please get in touch with us to arrange a voucher or for more information on how they can be purchased. Gift Voucher
Do you run workshops all year round?
We run our Horse-Led Meditation experiences from March through to Christmas. Our other workshops are generally available from April to September, depending on the season and weather conditions.
Do you do workshops for hen parties or birthdays?
Yes, we offer workshops that are perfect for hen parties, birthdays and other special celebrations.
If you are looking for a more holistic and meaningful way to celebrate with friends, our workshops provide a relaxed and memorable experience in a beautiful rural setting.
You can find suitable options in the Creating Memories for Special Moments section of our website, or get in touch if you’d like help choosing the right experience for your group.
Can we bring a dog?
As Whasdyke Farm is a working farm, we respectfully ask clients not to bring pets.
Can I book a private creative workshop in the Lake District?
Yes. Soul & Soil offers private creative and wellbeing experiences at Whasdyke Farm, near Windermere. Workshops can be arranged for groups celebrating birthdays, special occasions or simply spending time together.
Does Soul & Soil offer experiences for hen parties?
Yes. Our private experiences are suitable for hen parties looking for a relaxed, creative or nature-inspired alternative to traditional celebrations. Activities include beeswax candle making, horse-led meditation and sound baths.
How far in advance should I book a private group experience?
We recommend enquiring at least one month in advance. Dates are generally released up to three months ahead, and availability depends on the chosen experience.
Horse led meditation FAQ
What is Horse-Led Meditation?
Horse-led meditation is a guided mindfulness experience shared with one of our heavy horses. As a group, we are invited to connect with our breathing, slow down and become fully present in the moment.
The horse stands at the centre of the group, free to engage in whatever way feels natural to them. As our breathing deepens and our heart rates begin to slow, the horse often responds to this shift in energy, becoming quieter, more relaxed and sometimes even sleepy.
It is horse-led because the horses are not trained to take part in meditation. Their participation is always a choice. We simply create the space, and the horse decides whether and how they wish to engage. This creates a unique and authentic experience, guided by the horse’s natural presence and response to the group.
This gentle interaction offers an opportunity to experience calm, connection and a deeper awareness of both ourselves and the world around us.
Do I need any horse experience
No, you do not need any previous horse experience to take part. Our horse-led meditation sessions are suitable for complete beginners as well as those who have spent time around horses before.
The experience takes place on the ground, and there is no riding involved. We will guide you throughout the session and introduce you to the horses in a calm and supportive way.
If you feel particularly nervous around horses or have any concerns about being in their presence, please let us know when booking. We can then discuss the most suitable experience for you and ensure that you feel comfortable, safe and able to fully enjoy your time with us.
Are the horses ridden during the session?
No, the horses are not ridden during the meditation session.
Our horse-led meditation experiences take place entirely on the ground, allowing participants to connect with the horses in a calm and mindful way. The focus is on presence, observation and shared experience rather than riding.
This makes the sessions accessible to people of all abilities and levels of horse experience.
What happens during the meditation?
We begin with a gentle breathing exercise, allowing the group to slow down, settle into the present moment and connect with a sense of calm.
As our breathing deepens and our energy becomes quieter, the horse often responds by becoming more relaxed, showing signs of restfulness and sometimes even sleepiness. Once both the group and the horse are settled, we move into a guided meditation.
The horse remains with us throughout the meditation, sharing the space in their own natural way. Many participants experience a deep sense of connection, calm and grounding through the horse’s quiet presence and sensitivity to the energy around them.
How close will I be to the horse during the meditation?
During the meditation session, guests are seated around the edge of the stable or outdoor yard, while the horse stands comfortably in the centre of the group, several feet away.
A dedicated horse handler is present throughout the session and does not take part in the meditation. Their role is to monitor the horse, support the experience and ensure the safety and wellbeing of both guests and horses at all times.
This allows participants to relax fully and enjoy the experience, knowing that the horse is being carefully looked after throughout the session.
What should I wear?
As we are based outdoors on a working farm, we recommend dressing for the weather on the day. Layers are ideal, as they allow you to adjust your clothing to stay comfortable throughout the session
We provide blankets for added comfort during the meditation, but sturdy footwear is essential. Please wear shoes or boots suitable for uneven ground and that you don’t mind getting a little muddy.
If wet weather is forecast, we also recommend bringing a waterproof coat and dressing appropriately for the conditions.
Can children attend?
Unfortunately, due to our insurance requirements, participants must be aged 16 or over to attend our horse-led meditation sessions.
How many people are in a group session?
Our horse-led meditation sessions are limited to a maximum of five guests.
Keeping our groups small allows for a more personal and meaningful experience, giving everyone the opportunity to relax, connect and fully engage with the meditation. It also helps ensure that the experience remains calm and comfortable for the horses.
This intimate setting creates a peaceful atmosphere where both guests and horses can feel at ease.
Can I book a private creative workshop in the Lake District?
Yes. Soul & Soil offers private creative and wellbeing experiences at Whasdyke Farm, near Windermere. Workshops can be arranged for groups celebrating birthdays, special occasions or simply spending time together.
Does Soul & Soil offer experiences for hen parties?
Yes. Our private experiences are suitable for hen parties looking for a relaxed, creative or nature-inspired alternative to traditional celebrations. Activities include beeswax candle making, horse-led meditation and sound baths.
How far in advance should I book a private group experience?
We recommend enquiring at least one month in advance. Dates are generally released up to three months ahead, and availability depends on the chosen experience.