Introduction
Two days breathing fresh Oxfordshire air, reconnecting through experiences designed to delight the senses, and sharing a whole lot of laughter — that's the heart of TreeDwellers. We recently gathered some of our favourite bloggers, creators, artists, and travel experts for a unique 'Taste of the Wild' - a 2-night stay at TreeDwellers with visits to amazing local businesses in the Oxfordshire Cotswolds.
From wandering fields with an expert forager to warming up with lively traditional pub games and delicious feasts, we revelled in showcasing the magic a trip to the trees can offer. It created the kind of memories that stay with you long after returning home.
Here’s a glimpse into the unforgettable journey we shared...
✨Sharing the Adventure
The magic of this 'Taste of the Wild' experience was shared with a brilliant group of creative minds and local enthusiasts. We loved exploring Oxfordshire's natural beauty and local gems together. Let us introduce you to the friends who joined our woodland adventure:
Josie Irons (@josieldn): Popular lifestyle vlogger sharing heartfelt moments of family, style, and Cotswolds life.
Emma Paton (@emmapaton___): Content creator known for her curated eye, sharing attainable style and home inspiration.
Rosie Caldwell (@rosietheginger): Vibrant lifestyle content creator inspiring adventures through colourful travel and joyful moments.
Lisa Oxenham (@lisaoxenham): Award-winning Beauty & Wellbeing Director championing sustainable beauty and holistic wellness.
Ali Woods (@aliinthecotswolds): Cotswolds enthusiast sharing the charm and beauty of local life through captivating photography.
Harlie Briggs (@harliebriggsart_): Visual artist whose vibrant, intuitive paintings beautifully capture the feeling of nature.
Now, follow along as we recount the magic of the stay, day by day. Keep an eye out for beautiful moments (✨) captured directly by our wonderful guests, sprinkled throughout the story below.
Day One: Woodland Whispers & Fireside Magic
Woodland Welcome • Breathing Branches • Canopy Canapés • Forest Feasting • Saucy Surprise • Toddies & Tales
Woodland Welcome
The adventure began as guests arrived, the crunch of tyres on gravel giving way to the sight of unique dwellings nestled amongst the leaves and trees of Cornbury Park Estate. After arriving, guests found their way to their individual treetop sanctuaries for the stay. TreeDwellers offers seven unique treehouses, each nestled beautifully within the woodland, available for short stays or private events.
While all share the same high standards of comfort, thoughtful amenities, and signature style, every treehouse boasts its own shape, colour and design combination– some clad in sleek curved metal, others in warm panelled wood, ensuring a truly unique connection with the surrounding nature.
Settling into these incredible spaces, guests were greeted not just by the tranquil forest views, but also by our signature welcome hamper brimming with local Oxfordshire treats – carefully selected wine, artisan cheese, crackers, and locally roasted coffee (with champagne upgrades available for those extra special occasions!). It’s the perfect introduction to the quality and local flavour that defines the TreeDwellers experience.
Once settled, and perhaps already savouring a taste from their hamper, the group gathered around the inviting crackle of the fire pit. Here, under the vast evening sky and towering trunks, TreeDwellers' founder Tim Rees offered a warm, personal welcome, sharing the vision behind this 'Forward to Nature' woodland escape and setting an inspiring tone for the shared adventures ahead.
Breathing Branches
After the warm welcome, it was time to fully embrace the tranquil essence of TreeDwellers. To help guests gently shed the pace of daily life and deepen their connection with the woodland surroundings, the first shared experience was a guided session of forest bathing. We were expertly led by the calm presence of Claire Brannigan of In Tune Wellbeing.
ℹ️ Originating in Japan as Shinrin-yoku, forest bathing isn't about strenuous hiking; it's the practice of consciously immersing oneself in nature, connecting through all the senses to find calm, reduce stress, and gain perspective – a perfect fit for the TreeDwellers ethos.
Guided by Claire's quiet invitations to notice, breathe, and simply be, the group truly surrendered to the woods. It wasn't just a mindless wander; it was a deep immersion. Feet fell softly on the woodland floor as awareness opened to the subtle symphony of the forest – the gentle rustle of leaves overhead, the rich, earthy scent of damp soil and moss, the feeling of cool air on the skin, the captivating sight of the days' last sunlight dappling through the ancient canopy of Wychwood Forest. The only sounds were those of nature and Claire's calming voice, encouraging a mindful presence.
A profound sense of peace settled over everyone, forging a tangible connection to the quiet, restorative rhythm of the woodlands – a feeling many guests seek when they escape to the trees.
This powerful sense of peace and connection is something Claire specialises in fostering through In Tune Wellbeing. Her studio is conveniently based just minutes down the road in Leafield, offering a range of practices such as yoga and sound baths alongside guided forest bathing. As she welcomes enquiries for private and group sessions, TreeDwellers guests have the unique opportunity to arrange their own tailored wellbeing experiences – enhancing their stay with a private session right here in our serene woodlands. Explore her offerings further and connect with Claire via her website.
As dusk settled and the woodland air cooled, guests briefly returned to their treetop sanctuaries. It was the perfect moment to grab an extra layer and indulge in a touch of forward planning: placing the cosy, provided robes onto the gently warming underfloor heating, ready for ultimate comfort later that night. With that promise of future cosiness planted, attention shifted to the evening's allure of fireside cocktails and delicious food...
Good Gathers Twilight Takeover
Our evening feast was orchestrated by the brilliant Good Gathers, an event catering arm of renowned Cotswolds culinary stars, Ross & Ross Events.
Known for their commitment to exceptional, locally sourced, seasonal food and creating unforgettable dining experiences, often involving the magic of fire cooking and shared feasts, we knew we were in for a treat.
Find out more about them - including their upcoming culinary events - here.
Canopy Canapés
As twilight settled over the woods and the fire pit crackled invitingly, our new friends gathered, drawn by the sight of the Good Gathers team readying treats near their signature tuktuk.
The first delight was a welcome cocktail – a refreshing Blood Orange & Sage blend – perfect for sipping while soaking in the magical woodland atmosphere. Then came the neat individual boxes, each containing a delicious collection of canapés showcasing diverse flavours and textures:
With the scent of woodsmoke mingling with the crisp evening air, the fire casting a warm glow, and these exquisite bites in hand, it was the perfect start to the evening – sparkling conversation, anticipation for the feast ahead, and a wonderful sense of connection.
Saucy Surprise
Adding to the fireside indulgence, Good Gathers also unveiled their fantastic brand new collection of signature sauces, served right there alongside the canapés. Guests had the exciting first chance to dip, drizzle, and discover the full range – finding the perfect pairing for each bite.
The line-up offered a flavour adventure for every palate: tangy 'One: Buffalo', smoky-sweet 'Two: Korean BBQ', complex 'Three: Kentucky MOP', cool and creamy 'Four: Ranch', and the attention-grabbing 'Five: HOT'.
This unexpected tasting sparked conversation on the upcoming launch and added another layer of delicious discovery to the twilight gathering by the fire.
Forest Feasting
Moving from the fireside into the warm glow of a beautiful marquee nestled intimately amongst the trees, guests found the main feast awaited. A long feasting table stood elegantly set with stylish tableware provided by The Luxe Collection UK, ready for a shared supper.
The Good Gathers team presented a true celebration of the season, served family-style down the centre of the table. For meat-lovers, tender 28 Day Dry-Aged Beef Medallions rested on a smooth brown butter cauliflower puree, perfectly complemented by charred purple sprouting broccoli and a vibrant wild garlic salsa verde. The equally stunning plant-based option featured beautifully prepared Cauliflower steak with the same rich puree and charred greens, elevated with delicate carrot crisps.
Served alongside were generous sharing bowls, encouraging connection and conversation as guests helped themselves: incredibly moreish Pine-Smoked, Thyme & Garlic Crispy Potatoes, and a refreshing Blood Orange, Radicchio & Fennel Salad providing perfect balance and zest.
Delicious food, shared generously in a magical woodland setting, creating genuine connection – truly Good Gathers by name, facilitating good gathers by nature. But the magic of the evening wasn't quite complete...
Toddies & Tales
Drawn back towards the glowing embers of the fire pit, the group settled in closer for a final treat under the night sky. Warm mugs of aromatic Rhubarb Hot Toddies were passed around, their sweet, spiced steam rising invitingly in the cool night air.
Then, Scruffy, a captivating local character with a true gift for spinning a yarn, began to weave his magic. His tales, delivered with effortless charm, were laced with Cotswolds history, gentle humour, and just a touch of otherworldly enchantment, holding everyone completely captive in the firelight.
The combination of the fire's radiating warmth, the comforting sweetness of the toddies, the darkness enveloping the woods beyond the fire's glow, and Scruffy’s mesmerising voice created an atmosphere of pure magic – a truly unforgettable end to a nourishing first day.
✨See the Adventure Unfold
Want to see this incredible experience come alive through our guests' eyes? Well good - they were documenting the whole trip! Follow these links and look out for more content marked with ✨ through the blog:
From treetop views to delicious food and fun activities Emma Paton's (@emmapaton___) story highlights on Instagram:
For a closer look at arrival, the stunning treehouse tour (Sambucus), and the first day's atmosphere, watch Josie Irons' (@josieldn) beautiful vlog:
Look out for the ✨ through this blog for more of our guests' stories or book your own adventure today.
Day Two: Electric Exploration & Village Charm
Cotswolds Cruising • Eco-Luxe Rides • Foraging the Farm • Apothecary Arts • Finstock Fun • Ramsden Dining Delights
Cotswolds Cruising
Day Two was all about exploring the local area and the people within it. Our guests woke in their treehouses to a perfect Spring morning met us, bringing clear blue skies overhead and crisp air filled with the scent of blossom.
Delicious breakfast hampers delivered from neighbouring Charlbury Deli & Cafe, enjoyed high amongst the leaves, provided the perfect fuel for a day dedicated to exploring the sensory delights awaiting in the Cotswolds.
Eco-Luxe Rides
And what better way to embark on that exploration than in sustainable style? Waiting to collect the group were Vic, Steve, Charlie, and Alex from our friends at Electrogenic. They specialise in meticulously crafted, bespoke electric conversions of classic vehicles – in our case, a fleet of stunning Land Rovers, a vintage VW Beatle and a custom classic Jaguar - reimagined for a new era of exploration.
It's an innovative approach that deeply resonates with TreeDwellers' (and particularly Director Tim's) own values: seamlessly blending timeless heritage and beautiful design with modern, sustainable technology.
Exploring the winding Cotswolds lanes in these machines was a true revelation. All the iconic style and rugged charm of a classic Land Rover remained, yet the group was gliding almost silently through the picturesque landscape. This whisper-quiet, emission-free travel wasn't just effortlessly stylish; it allowed everyone to truly hear the countryside – the birdsong in the hedgerows, the breeze rustling the new spring leaves – sounds often masked by a conventional engine. It perfectly complemented the immersive, peaceful escape TreeDwellers provides, offering a unique and responsible way to discover the local area.
Smooth, elegant, and sustainable – it was an unforgettable way to journey. As guest Rosie Caldwell (@rosietheginger) summed it up perfectly: "The Land Rover I never knew I wanted is now firmly on my wishlist."
Nature's Larder & Laboratory
Our first destination in these incredible vehicles was Bruern Farms, not just a farm, but a thriving estate rooted in the Astor family history and now passionately guided by the ethos of "Healthy Soil, Healthy Food, Healthy People."
Stepping onto the land and exploring the farm shop, you can feel their commitment to building a healthy ecosystem and connecting the community back to the source of its nourishment – a philosophy that resonates deeply with TreeDwellers.
Foraging the Farm with Leslie
Here, we were met by the incredible Leslie Astor, a knowledgeable community herbalist and founder of Fifield Road Apothecary, whose family stewards this special place. Leslie's deep connection to the land and infectious enthusiasm immediately brought the landscape to life. As she guided us through vibrant hedgerows alive with pollinators she shared the secrets of the wild larder, encouraging everyone to touch, smell, and truly notice the life teeming around us.
She pointed out easily overlooked treasures: potent wild herbs pushing through the damp earth, delicate edible flowers adding colour to the margins, and useful roots hidden beneath the soil. Guests actively learned about fresh greens, discovering not just their names but their traditional medicinal properties and exciting culinary possibilities. It was a true immersion in nature's quiet, powerful abundance and a direct insight into the farm's thriving ecosystem. Leslie's expertise beautifully bridges the gap between wild food and herbal wellness.
Following the immersive walk, the connection deepened over a delightful lunch of Wild Garlic pasta hosted right there at Bruern Farm's Café, featuring delicious, hyper-local produce nourished by the very soil we'd just explored – a true taste of their 'Healthy Food' promise.
Apothecary Arts
From nourishing the body with wild food to nurturing wellbeing with herbal remedies, the journey continued seamlessly into the afternoon at Fifield Road Apothecary, Leslie Astor's own venture born from her passion as a community herbalist. Here, guests delved deeper into the art of natural wellness through a hands-on workshop, reflecting the Apothecary's ethos of sourcing ethical, plant-based ingredients – often incorporating botanicals responsibly foraged from the Bruern hedgerows – presented with plastic-free principles. (See more in that shop we mentioned before!)
Guided by Leslie's expertise, the group learned about traditional plant wisdom and the satisfying process of creating handcrafted remedies. Surrounded by the rich aromas of dried herbs and natural essences, it was an insightful and wonderfully sensory experience, leaving everyone with not just their own handmade creation of dried nettle teas, but a deeper appreciation for nature's pharmacy.
Laden with aromatic, handmade creations, and a sample of Bruern's famous flour, the group was smoothly transported back to the tranquillity of TreeDwellers by the waiting Electrogenic vehicles. A well-deserved interlude for downtime awaited– a chance to relax in the cosy embrace of the treehouses, reflect on the day's discoveries with a view through the leaves, and simply recharge.
It was during moments like these that the beauty of simply being at TreeDwellers shone through – perfectly captured in these radiant snapshots shared by Lisa Clark, showcasing some gorgeous sustainable knitwear from Herd.
This pause offered the perfect refreshment before venturing out again as evening fell, ready for an authentic taste of Oxfordshire's famous local pub hospitality and some traditional fun.
From Sticks to Supper
After some downtime back at TreeDwellers, the evening called for classic Oxfordshire fun: an introduction to Aunt Sally at The Plough. Just a pleasant 10-minute walk down the hill into Finstock, this wonderfully traditional, thatched 18th-century inn feels like stepping back in time (in the best possible way!).
Finstock Fun: Sticks, Cider & Sausage Rolls at The Plough
A warm welcome always awaits here from landlord Guy Wallis, who has been an incredible friend and crucial support to TreeDwellers right from the build phase through to opening – his hospitality truly embodies the spirit of the community. As proof, while we gathered in the quintessential pub setting for our game briefing, Guy treated us to a fantastic spread of nibbles – think delicious homemade sausage rolls and crispy battered prawns – the perfect accompaniment to pints of potent Old Rosie cider.
While we were enjoying these fantastic snacks, the formidable local Plough team arrived in full force, ready for a friendly match. They generously took the time to teach us exactly how to beat them at this traditional Oxfordshire game (explaining the art of aiming sticks to knock the wooden 'dolly' off its stilt!) – for which we must thank them... though judging by the final score, they might have kept a few crucial secrets back! 😉
Fuelled by the cider and sausage rolls, the atmosphere under the Oxfordshire sky became electric – filled with the satisfying thwack of wood hitting the target (and the groans when it missed or hit the metal "iron!" first!), bursts of laughter, encouraging cheers, and plenty of good-natured friendly rivalry. It was the perfect, authentic village pub experience.
Ramsden Dining Delights
With appetites whetted and spirits high from the game, we made the short journey through the twilight lanes to the nearby village of Ramsden for dinner at The Royal Oak. Stepping inside this beautifully restored, 17th-century village heart felt instantly welcoming. Its historic Cotswold charm (think mellow stone and original beams) was enhanced by a magical, whimsical touch: blossoms and branches intertwined with tiny fairy lights cast a warm, enchanting glow. Amidst this lovely setting and continued warm hospitality, we settled in for another feast to remember.
Upon arrival, fresh Focaccia and plump olives awaited on the tables, soon joined by glasses of crisp, celebratory Sparkling Wine from the nearby Wilcote Estate – a true taste of Oxfordshire excellence, grown just down the road.
The main course was a culinary highlight: succulent Cotswold Rack of Lamb, perfectly cooked and accompanied by a stuffed Roscoff onion, vibrant curried carrot puree, irresistible lamb fat Cornish potatoes, a fresh garden pea & onion fricassee, and rich rosemary jus. A delicious fish option was also thoughtfully provided, ensuring every guest had a stunning plate. Dessert provided a final moment of pure indulgence: warm, gooey, decadent Double Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough.
Settled into the pub's historic charm, it was a wonderful opportunity to relax in a classic Cotswolds setting, chat about the day's highlights – filling stomachs and hearts, capping off an adventurous day.
✨More TreeDwellers Moments with Rosie
Want another perspective on the TreeDwellers experience, including the wonderful adventures of Day Two? Rosie Caldwell (@rosietheginger) also captured her journey, from the magical sunrise and quiet morning moments in the treehouse through to the foraging, apothecary fun, and evening activities.
Watch her vlog below for more insights and beautiful visuals:
Day Three: Fond Farewells
Good Food • Goodbyes
Brunch at Chloe's
The final morning offered a chance for leisurely packing and one last taste of Cotswolds charm before departure. The destination: Chloe’s, a popular and welcoming café nestled in the nearby market town of Charlbury – proving itself the perfect spot for a marvellous farewell brunch.
Stepping inside, the air filled with the inviting aroma of freshly brewed coffee and pastries. Chloe's warmly accommodated our group for this final gathering, providing the perfect relaxed backdrop against the gentle buzz of a well-loved local spot.
And what a spread it was – a final, delicious celebration of Cotswolds goodness laid out before us:
Delicious charcuterie from the renowned SaltPig Curing Company
Vibrant Bircher muesli adorned with blood orange, creamy coconut yogurt, and crunchy toasted seeds & nuts
Artisan cheese crafted in nearby Chedworth
Unique freshly-made cordials like zingy turmeric & fragrant elderflower
Alongside tempting hot dishes cooked to order from Chloe's enticing menu.
Over cups of strong coffee and this delightful feast, conversation flowed easily, reflecting on the adventures shared and connections made over the memorable time. It was the ideal relaxed conclusion, sending everyone off recharged, with full bellies and fond memories of their unique TreeDwellers escape before heading home.
Why This Experience Matters
This TreeDwellers journey wasn't just a schedule of activities; it was a tapestry woven with threads of discovery, connection, and sensory delight. It was about the luxury of slowing down enough to notice the intricate beauty of a wild herb, the simple joy of laughter echoing around a fire, the quiet pride in learning a new skill, and the comfortable camaraderie forged through a unique blend of shared adventures and authentic local encounters.
Click here for our dedicated Instagram highlight.
It’s about finding that unique blend where nature meets nurture, where rustic charm meets refined comfort, where you can reconnect with the wild, with others, and ultimately, with yourself.
✨The Adventure in Motion
For a final, dynamic glimpse capturing the overall atmosphere, stunning scenery, and memorable highlights of this 'Taste of the Wild' experience, watch this fantastic Reel created by Cotswolds enthusiast Ali Woods (@aliinthecotswolds):
Experience TreeDwellers Yourself
Ready to weave your own unforgettable TreeDwellers story? It's more than just a stay — it's an experience designed to reconnect you with nature, nourish your senses, and create moments that linger. If this sounds like your kind of escape, we’d love to welcome you soon. 🌲
✨Choose your adventure:
Book your unique treehouse escape:
Immerse yourself in tranquillity and reconnect with nature in your private treetop sanctuary.
Get inspired for your stay:
Read our blog for more stories ideas for unique local experiences you could arrange.
Craft a bespoke Cotswolds adventure:
Talk to us about creating a personalised itinerary for your group or special occasion.
➡️Email hannah@treedwellers.co.uk with subject line "My Cotswolds Adventure" and details of your interests when travelling.
We can't wait to welcome you. Huge thanks to Far Communications and all contributors for such a wonderful experience.