Praktyka

Rediscover your creative spirit in a heavenly slice of North Devon, complete with wildflower meadows, artists' workshops, and lovingly-crafted retreats.

"Praktyka" isn't just the Polish word for "practice", but the inspiration for a dreamlike sanctuary in North Devon.  

Here you'll find the time and encouragement you need to relax, reconnect with nature, and explore your long-lost creative spirit... whilst bedding down in magical, lovingly-crafted retreats.

Friendly owners Ania and Henry have worked hard on transforming their farm into a rural paradise. Now a small and perfectly-formed nature reserve, there are over 150 whispering trees, sweet-scented wildflower meadows, and ‘secret' gardens with plenty of sumptuous space to stretch out and watch the world go by.

Ania and Henry also come with plenty of credentials that helped them shape Praktyka into such a blissful haven. Ania is a renowned artist, photographer, and jewellery designer, while Henry is a geographer and charity fundraiser (£5 from every booking goes to Jamie's Farm, a charity that helps vulnerable young people).

So, where exactly will you be staying?

Artisan-crafted, and designed in collaboration with award-winning architects, Heartwood is a unique retreat that combines an exquisite sculpted pavilion shelter with a cosy geodesic dome.

Nestled under an ancient oak tree, and surrounded by breath-taking views to Exmoor, the dome is a large, welcoming living and sleeping space with a roaring fire. The pavilion, meanwhile, is home to a well-equipped kitchen, dining area, and a piping hot outdoor shower (trust us: you'll never want to freshen up inside again!)

Relax outside in the sun or shade, with a projecting canopy providing shelter whenever you need it. The secluded gardens are mesmerisingly beautiful; designed by Ania herself, with inspiration from the Mexican artist Gabriel Orozco's work: ‘Thinking in Circles'.

Ideal for small family escapes, The Barn has been stunningly refurbished into a homely haven, complete with underfloor heating, a well-stocked library, and a chic Danish woodburner.

Furnished in mid-century style, there's a spacious open-plan kitchen, and plenty of comfy seating that's ideal for curling up in front of the fire with a glass of wine.

With focus on providing the time and space to inspire, create, and "practice" your chosen crafts, there will be an on-site programme of art and well-being workshops to choose from. Some are run by Ania, and others in collaboration with local artists and makers.  

Learn how to paint, sketch, take amazing photographs, or make jewellery... or simply get lost in the idyllic here and now, with a relaxing yoga or meditation session.

There is also, of course, plenty of scope to explore the abundant charms of North Devon too, whether you prefer sandy beaches and sheltered coves, or bustling pubs and restaurants!

Things to note

Further accommodation, including a bell tent, will be available later in the year. Please bring towels, a torch, and waterproofs/footwear suitable for the outdoors. Pets are regrettably not permitted. Wi-Fi is available in the barn, and there is a strong mobile and 4G signal.