The Essential Retreat
2 guests
-
1 bedroom, 1 bed
1 bathroom
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Do you have a question about this home or the local area?
This Shepard’s Hut might be small but it sits like a gateway to the expansive beauty of the Oxfordshire countryside. And with an abundance of character, warmth and charm, there’s everything you could need for a transformative retreat in the woods. Sitting just outside Henley-On-Thames, this is the perfect opportunity to leave behind to-do lists and embrace the simple pleasures of rural living. Days can be spent following nature’s rhythm. From gentle mornings sitting beneath the trees to lingering barbecue lunches, long walks and cosy nights curled up by the log fire, this home provides a constant sense of sanctuary – an idyllic place to feel inspired and rejuvenated by the magic of life. For any amenities, you might need during your stay, the charming market town of Henley-on-Thames is less than a fifteen-minute drive away.
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Ask the host anything
Do you have a question about this home or the local area?
What to expect
Highlights

Experience the serene beauty of the Oxfordshire countryside

Wake up to leafy views and enjoy the simple charm of this home

Step outside and spend rejuvenating days exploring the majestic woodland

Light the fire and spend cosy nights in this idyllic sanctuary
Like what you see? Explore more of this home
Home truths
Your host owns other homes on this site – the exact view, furnishings and layout might vary from the photos
Due to the remote location of the cabin, you will need a car
There is free private parking here along with Sync EV electric car chargers
Phone signal can be patchy here
There are stairs leading up to the entrance of this home
Hen and stag parties are not allowed at this home
Shampoo is included in the bathroom
There is no washing machine in this home
There is a log store close to this home where you can collect wood for the fire
About this stay
Amenities
Wi-fi
Parking available
Washing machine
Dryer
Garden
Courtyard
TV
Dishwasher
Bedrooms & bathrooms
1 bedroom, 1 bed
1 bathroom
Local guide
About Henley-on-Thames
Weeping willows cascade into the Thames and barges putter along the serene water – life in Henley-on-Thames is all about the river. Cruises by steamer, or a day pottering about in a row or sail boat are the best ways to experience a slice of river life, and the Henley Royal Regatta takes over in August. If staying landside is more your thing there are plenty of tea rooms serving...
Explore the area
Local restaurants, cafes, museums, sites and activities, recommended by our community of hosts and travel experts

Enjoy the riverside view at the Angel on the Bridge
A cosy pub with wooden floors and beams, offering British dining and a riverside terrace. Enjoy fantastic views of the historic Henley Bridge and a river full of boats while savouring great food and drinks.

Dine at The Bull on Bell St
Enjoy modern British cuisine and own-brewed ales in a beautifully presented 1500s inn with period features and eclectic decor. The food is delicious, the staff is friendly, and the ambience is great.

Indulge at the Chocolate Cafe
An informal cafe by the riverside in Henley, offering a great selection of hot drinks, cakes, and pastries. Enjoy the lovely atmosphere, friendly staff, and affordable prices while watching swans and ducks.

Dine at The Little Angel
A smart old pub with a lovely interior and eclectic decor. Enjoy modern British food, warm service, and a relaxing ambience in the conservatory area. A perfect spot to relax with a pint or a glass of wine.

Indulge in Thai delights at Giggling Squid
An easygoing restaurant specialising in Thai staples, with an emphasis on seafood. Enjoy the calm atmosphere, well-decorated interiors, and attentive staff. Try their delicious tapas set, stir fry prawn, and delectable ice cream desserts.

Enjoy a film and drinks at Regal Picturehouse
Regal Picturehouse is a local cinema with character, offering comfortable seats, tasty popcorn, and a bar serving beer, spirits, wine, and snacks. It's the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a movie with a libation in hand.

Explore the Historic Greys Court
Step back in time at this 16th-century manor house with a donkey-powered mill wheel, 12th-century tower, and grass maze. Discover the beautiful walled gardens and enjoy a walk around the perimeter, with plenty of woods to explore. Don't miss the sculpture display throughout the gardens.
Get around
Airport
Blackbushe
54 min
Heathrow
51 min
Farnborough
1 hr 4 min
Train station
Henley-on-Thames
18 min
Bus stop
The Green
14 min
Local shops & services
Supermarket
14 min
Cafe
12 min
Pharmacy
15 min
Booking policies
House Rules
Not suitable for children under age 12
Not suitable for infants under age 1
No pets
No parties or events
No smoking
Good to know
Arrival from 16:00
Departure before 10:00
Wifi
No air con
Cancellation policy
Up until
5
days
Cancel at least 5 days before your check-in date for a full refund.
Not eligible for a refund once your check-in date is under 5 days away.
Host
This home is managed by Ben
This home is managed directly by a business. A member of their staff will be your point of contact before and during your stay. Ben, Becky and Sam manage a number of homes in Ascot, South Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire. They put a lot of care into their guest experience, ensuring you have everything you need for a comfortable and memorable stay. They are always on hand to answer questions, so get in touch with anything you may need and they'll be happy to accommodate you as best they can.
This home is nominated for the Plum Guide Award.
- Great hosts, not just great homes – We reject homes managed by hosts who don’t meet our standards of excellence.
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- Every home scrutinised by experts, they have to meet our standards.
- Hosts we knowHigh-quality hosting, with track records of high-quality hosting.
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- Rated ‘Excellent’ on Trustpilot, delivering exceptional service before, during and after your stay.