Farm & Workshops FAQ
Where is Soul and Soil located?
Soul and Soil is located on our family farm, approximately one and a half miles from the centre of Windermere, in the heart of the Lake District. If travelling by car, we are just a few minutes from Windermere. Detailed directions can be found on our Directions page. For those arriving by public transport, the nearest bus stop is at Ings and the nearest train station is Windermere. Please allow around 30 minutes to walk from either location to the farm. Directions by carCan I reach Soul and Soil by public transport?
Yes. The nearest train station is Windermere and the nearest bus stop is at Ings. Both are within walking distance of the farm. We are always happy to help guests plan their journey, so please feel free to contact us for walking directions and local travel advice. Is there parking at Soul and Soil?
Yes, there is plenty of space for you to park here at the farm. Parking is free and available for all guests attending our workshops and experiences.
How do I book a workshop?
Take a look at our Workshops page to explore our current experiences and events. If you find something you’d like to join, simply click through to the booking page for more information and to reserve your place.
Are your workshops suitable for beginners?
Yes. We welcome beginners and many of our workshops are designed specifically for guests with little or no previous experience. Our aim is to create a relaxed and supportive environment where everyone can learn, explore and enjoy the experience at their own pace.
Do you offer private group bookings?
Yes, we offer private group bookings for selected workshops and experiences. Please visit our Creating Memories for Special Moments page to explore the range of private workshop options available. Our Horse-Led Meditation experiences can also be booked privately for groups. If you have something specific in mind, please get in touch and we will be happy to discuss the possibilities.
What should I wear?
This depends on the weather and the activity on the day, but as we are a working farm we recommend sensible footwear that you don’t mind getting muddy. We suggest wearing layers so you can stay comfortable whatever the weather—warm layers you can add or remove easily are ideal.
Are refreshments provided?
Yes, we provide a selection of teas and coffee, along with cold drinks in warmer weather. Homemade biscuits are also available. If you have any dietary requirements, you’re very welcome to bring your own snacks with you.
Can I buy a gift voucher?
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.
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.