A nature-based alternative to traditional pre-wedding celebrations
At Oakhill Ponds, we offer something different: a space for friends to gather before the wedding—not in noisy bars or with awkward games, but in nature—by firelight, in still water, under wide skies.
Welcome to Gentle Elemental—our name for these quiet, joyful, and meaningful gatherings, rooted in the elements of fire, water, earth, and air. Whether you’re planning a Hen, Stag, or a celebration that brings together all your closest people, this is a time to slow down, reflect and honour the next chapter.
My own daughter and her beloved are celebrating their wedding here at Oakhill Ponds. They didn’t want to separate their friends into Hen and Stag groups—they just wanted to be together. As I prepare to be both celebrant and mother of the bride, I’ve been reflecting on what makes a gathering truly memorable.
It’s not always about ceremony. Sometimes it’s in time together and the rhythm of cooking over fire, a morning swim, or the quiet joy of crafting something by hand. This is the space we offer here—simple, elemental and deeply grounded.
Stepping into the Elements
At Oakhill Ponds, the elements are more than a backdrop—they shape the experience. Through them, we are reminded of what is essential, enduring, and real.
Fire gathers us and invites stories to be shared.
Water restores, renews, and helps us let go.
Earth steadies us—rooting us in what is lasting and true.
Air carries our laughter, our breath, and our intentions.
There’s no script here. Just time to gather in nature, connect with what matters, and honour what lies ahead.
Elemental Experiences
Fire | Cooking & Gathering
Cook over open flames using our Kadai firepit and Kamado Joe setup
Share a slow-roasted meal or foraged feast in the outdoor kitchen and around the fire
Sit together under the stars, telling stories or simply being together
- Forage for natures fire-starters and learn how to make a fire from scratch, how to chop, stack and dry wood
- Observe the stars, the ultimate fire-starters, as we turn our gaze to the night sky —with a telescope and our resident astronomer, to guide us we'll take a glimpse into the universe’s past and our own origins
- Sit around the beautiful fire-pit, sharing stories, songs, or quiet reflection
- Upgrade to a fire-cooked feast led by a private chef
Water | Swim & Sauna
Wild swimming in spring-fed ponds
Private use of our wood-fired sauna (seating up to 8)
Optional guided breathwork and cold water immersion
Paddle-board Pilates for fun, balance and laughter on the water
Earth | Rest, Creativity & Making Together
- Foraged Pigments & Prints – Make natural inks and prints for invitations, name cards, artwork and keepsakes
- Learn how to make charcoal from materials found in the woodland; walk, charcoal make, draw
- Forest Floristry & Natural Arrangements – Gather and arrange seasonal foliage, branches, and flowers for natural displays or environmental artwork
- Make a living willow structure; dens, pods, tunnels
Air | Intention & Movement
Forest meditation, breathwork and journalling
Woodland sensory walk and poetry trail with journalling
- Sauna Rituals & – Inspired by Finnish & Lithuanian traditions
- Pilates & Yoga – Movement sessions overlooking the ponds or under cover when needed
- Yoga & Creative Writing – A fusion of movement and creative expression
- Running in the Mendips - off-trail runs through local woodlands and landscape - bespoke trails for all abilities
- Botanical or whiskey tasting with a focus on natural ingredients
How to Gather
Gentle Elemental gatherings are curated with care to create something memorable and nourishing. Pricing reflects both access to the full site and the thoughtful preparation that helps your gathering unfold beautifully—from firewood and hot tubs, to layout and flow.
The Walled Garden may be used as a quiet gathering space during your stay, but we ask all guests to avoid late-night noise in this area out of respect for our neighbours and the natural calm of the land.
We offer two ways to experience a Gentle Elemental Gathering:
Self-Catered Gathering
For groups who prefer to organise their own meals and experiences.
Full private use of the site
Wild swimming, sauna, fire-cooking setup, and Horse Lorry Reading Room
Pricing: £1,350 per night (12 guests) | £1,650 (16 guests)
Elemental Experience Package
For groups who want a more immersive experience with gentle guidance and activities.
Two guided experiences of your choice (e.g. foraging, yoga, sauna rituals, forest floristry)
Immersive story-walk around the site and peek in the grotto OR an evening storytelling gathered around the fire
Pricing: £1,600 per night (12 guests) | £1,900 (16 guests)
Optional Catering & Fire Feasts
We work with a trusted network of private chefs and fire cooks who offer everything from seasonal sharing platters to immersive fire-cooked feasts. If you’d like to add catering to your gathering, we’ll connect you directly with our recommended providers so you can choose a menu and price that suits your group.
This is arranged separately and paid directly to the chef. Menus and prices by request
Ready to gather?
Each relationship is different. Some moments need music and firelight. Others need silence, water, or simply a shared meal. Whether you’re planning a Gentle Hen, Stag, or a mixed celebration of your own design, we’d be honoured to host it.
➡️ Check availability & plan your gathering →