Feedback from guests who have stayed at Sheldon
If you have visited Sheldon, you can leave feedback about your visit by using this on-line form.
If you could please also leave us a Google review here.
Private retreat Dec 2024
The accommodation has everything I need - The food is wonderful - and it has been so quiet! Despite the rain I've enjoyed pottering around the grounds and chilling out. Thank you!
Private retreat Nov 2024
... because of the obvious warmth and care taken to make me feel welcome. the peace and space given, & the feeling of being enfolded in prayer. I came to find space from continuous demand so as to have some quality time to listen to what God is - & isn't - calling me to do at the latest stage in my life and ministry. Once again He - & the community - have more than answered my prayers. I have drawn breath & received God's loving touch.
R5 week Nov 2024
Sheldon is a safe place to rest & just be.
Private retreat Nov 2024
Sheldon is a remarkable place. I now fully understand why people speak so highly of it. From the moment I arrived to departure I felt "at home". Everything fed my weary mind and soul, from the accommodation, stocked larder, the rhythm of prayer of the community the grounds, to the facilities. A truly liminal and numinous place where people arrive as strangers and leave as friends. Nothing would have made my stay more enjoyable - it was just right. Thank you!
Margaret Silf "The Wisdom Years" retreat Nov 2024
The welcome and total hospitality was so very good, sensitive and reassuring. The food was of such a high standard - faultless. The visit gave me space, calm in a beautiful environment.
Private retreat Nov 2024
I found Sheldon enjoyable because it provided just what I needed - space and quiet, relaxation, opportunity to read, reflect, walk or just 'be'. The stocked larder was wonderful!
I would have fond it helpful if there was a folding step - stool in the Roost (maybe next to the dustpan /brush) for the benefit of the Zacchaeus'es among us who can't reach the top cupboards over the sink! {Web editor note: always pleased to provide extra bits and pieces on request, while also trying not to add to general clutter}
Share the Joy (Icons) Nov 2024
...The warmth of the welcome and the relevance of the course. The facilitators were excellent. As usual food was delicious. Thank you.
R5 Nov 2024
The hospitality as always was warm and welcoming but very sensitive to how I felt on arrival, which was exhausted. Loved the sensitive touch of a full pack of refreshments in the library !
Such a little thing but I think most bedrooms are yellow. Could there be some bedrooms which are green to match the curtains.....
Crafting Retreat Nov 2024
It was a most enjoyable and refreshing few days. I felt wonderfully cared for by the staff, leaders and volunteers. Thank you. The group decided not to keep silence (although we did mostly do so after compline). {Web editor : we try to be very careful at 'doing what it says on the tin' and slipped up on this occasion. Sorry. } Looking back I wish I had taken myself off more to wok in my own silence. We had glorious weather so walking was a delightful time for reflection. I hope the course will be repeated.
Private retreat Oct 2024
It was an oasis of peace in a busy life. so very quiet. I slept for 10-11 hours a night! Loved looking out at the view and changing skies and birds on the roof opposite. The food was wonderful, freshly baked bread and homemade marmalade, pheasant pie - delicious and easy to prepare with no need to think - good for a tired brain. the chairs are comfortable, the lodge is warm - perfect, and I also got the unexpected treat of the aurora borealis.
Margaret Silf Retreat Oct 2024
Margaret is superb! Warm, funny, highly intelligent, she uses stories to illustrate points I won't forget. As always Sheldon was peaceful, welcoming , comfortable. The food was delicious. Silence was golden!! The services were good for my soul.
Private retreat Oct 2024
Wonderful hospitality, felt extremely well cared for. There was space to think, pray, rest and be.
The Wisdom Years Oct 2024
Excellent facilities, excellent speaker, wholesome food. A peaceful and restorative atmosphere and very friendly staff.
I would have found my stay at Sheldon more relaxing and safer if there was better lighting [outside] the pound House in the evenings. {Webeditor note: thanks for this comment - bulb had gone on one of the wall lights which is now fixed.} The path is not well lit and could cause anxiety for some people. Other wise, excellent stay which offered all i wished for during this retreat.
R5 Retreat Sept 2024
...the welcoming atmosphere, comfortable room, good food and chapel services. I arrived very tired and was grateful for the rest which restored me.
Beautiful surroundings, peaceful atmosphere. Space to pray and enjoy God's creation. A real sense for me of Psalm 121. I lift my eyes to the hills.... my help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.
Private Retreat - September 2024
My room had good facilities:TV, wifi, bath/shower, desk, sockets, lights overhead, blanket, clean, warm. Long barn had real coffee, lovely seating in lounge. Very nice home cooked meals. thank you. Nice walks nearby. Clare facilitated the labyrinth and led a group walk. I liked that there were optional planned activities. Maybe a led walk would be nice, pointing out flowers in the grounds. It was wonderful being listened to by Anne on 2 occasions. This helped me gain perspective on my life at this point in time in a safe space.
R5 - September 2024
Peace - Presence - Prayer
Simon Parke Retreat - August 2024
Every detail was attended to, and the staff were so kind, helpful and warm hearted. I felt very well looked after and especially as I was on a restricted diet. Many grateful thanks to you all for all you did for us.
Simon Parke Retreat - August 2024
We have had a very stressful year with illness and accidents. The R5 was an enjoyable and a helpful way to relax and I came home feeling so different. Thank you for your care at every point needed. Freedom to do what I wanted, dipping into art and labyrinth. Going to chapel with community when wanted to and the relaxing massage. I don't think I knew how much I needed this R5 until feeling the difference at home.
R5 - End August 2024
Most relaxing holiday ever. Perfect location/surroundings, so quiet and peaceful. Very friendly staff - great to have own bathroom. Loved the automatic 'night light' in bathroom.
R5 - End August 2024
To breathe out, relax and be unobtrusively ministered to. The art shed with Charmaine and the Labyrinth afternoon with Clare were wonderful bonuses. As always, the food and the room were great.
R5 - End August 2024
Comfort and care of accommodation and caring ethos. The food was wonderful, and the peace of the location. We could stay another week!
R5 - End August 2024
The lovely surroundings, staff and food. Simon Parke's retreats are always worthwhile, this year particularly excellent.
Simon Parke Retreat - August 2024
The accommodation was generous and views delightful. The staff were funny, kind and efficient. The gentle rhythm of prayer was sustaining. The grounds were great to explore. The no shop talk rule helped us talk about important stuff like books, food and hobbies. Carl was a great listener.
R5 - End August 2024
It was perfect. The care and consideration taken by members of the community was exceptional. I felt safe, comfortable and very well fed. There were some beautiful and simple touches, like the flowers in my room and the grace said before meals. All my physical and spiritual needs were met here. I leave feeling immense gratitude. I could have stayed longer.
Simon Parke Retreat - August 2024
Wonderful food, thoughtfully selected. Great accommodation - plenty of space and comfy. Welcoming, friendly and lovely staff. Space to do my own thing - I enjoyed the art room and local walks and my 1:1 with Sarah. Peace - this place is steep in prayer - thank you. This has been my first visit here and I shall be recommending this Holy place to others on my return. Thank you for being here and for all that you do as a team to make the stay so stress free and a blessing.
Private Retreat - August 2024
A very special week of just 'being' in the company of Meister Eckhart. Simon was a discerning, 'professional', compassionate retreat leader/facilitator. His collaborative and participative style allowed other voices to be heard, contributing to the corporate sense of divine presence among us. As always the accommodation and grounds were a real blessing, comfortable and all I needed. Homecooked food was excellent, quality and variety; healthy with some comfort food on the menu. Staff and volunteers as always, so generous with their hospitality of heart, time and home.
Simon Parke Retreat - August 2024
I have been nourished, inspired and calmed. The content of the sessions spoke to my longing and the Sheldon hospitality and natural world around quickly opened my spirit and nourished my body and mind. Thank you sincerely for special diet and other attentions to details, and the attentive team of staff and volunteers.
Simon Parke Retreat - August 2024
I found my stay at Sheldon useful/helpful/enjoyable because of silence, beautiful country, well led retreat, subject, excellent care by Sheldon staff and volunteers, very comfortable room, very good food.
Ian and Gail Adams Retreat - August 2024
I always find my stay enjoyable, the staff are amazing and so helpful.
Private Retreat - August 2024
It was the space I needed to be with God - it felt spacious and not oppressive; lovely to know there were others around whilst I was able to be. Thank you for all the lovely benches, especially the swinging benches in Linhay and the chairs outside the hermit's hut. Thank you all for the work you do. It was exactly what I'd needed - I've not found rest and peace like it before.
Private Retreat - August 2024
The food was wonderful! The grounds were kept immaculately. The rooms were so well equipped.
Ian and Gail Adams Retreat - August 2024
It helped to clear my head of clutter. Gave me time to hear God and to pray. Interesting and at times challenging. Food excellent and room very comfortable.
Ian & Gail Adams Retreat - August 2024
Utter peace. Everything provided. Real comfort. Wonderful food (thank you) - very generous. Loved the library. Walked the labyrinth. Just what I needed.
Private Retreat - August 2024
Tremendously helpful. I appreciated being allocated 'Pig Pen' as it gave me the space to ponder and pray in quietness, either inside of the comfort of the Pig Pen or on the patio bench. It was also so very helpful to be permitted to use the 'sanctuary' for prayers - Thank you. Excellent walking guides also. The meals were very nourishing and delicious. The welcome, care and peace Sheldon offers reflects powerfully the love of God.
Ian and Gail Adams retreat - August 2024
I found my stay at Sheldon enjoyable because of the addresses by Ian and Gail Adams. The practise of stillness, body prayer, lectio & terra divina were very helpful in extending my prayer life. Wonderful food and accommodation as always here and no traffic noise, except tractors. Very good retreat for me.
Ian and Gail Adams retreat - August 2024
As always it is so relaxing to be here, so peaceful and quiet. We enjoyed quality family time together.
Private Retreat - August 2024
All needs were catered for and every care was taken to ensure guests feel welcome and at home. Small details are seen to which makes the stay such a treat. The surroundings are second to none and all food is locally sourced and expertly prepared. The Fat Pigeon experience is a delight.
R5 - End August 2024
I found my stay at Sheldon enjoyable because everything was provided. I could totally rest in Sheldon.
Ian and Gail Adams Retreat - August 2024
As ever, the perfect combination of excellent input to inspire and provoke spiritual growth, renewal and re-setting. With a warm, comfortable homeliness of accommodation and real hospitality. The food was great. Retreat leaders Ian and Gail Adams were outstanding in guiding our thoughts and leading us to grow in our spiritual practices.
Ian and Gail Adams Retreat - August 2024
Excellent speaker with good range of resources and recommendations. Super food as always and everything in top order. Personally it brough closure from my last visit which was very emotional.
Ian and Gail Adams Retreat - August 2024
The welcome was lovely as always, all my allergy needs catered for. Lovely comfortable room, loved the view! If possible, the food seemed better than ever - that chocolate pudding. I enjoyed the peace, time to think and pray, lots of walks, reading. And thank you so much, Hillary, for the help and support over phone calls, and your prayers.
Private Retreat - August 2024
The quiet, uninterrupted setting helped us to...... stop, to rest and reflect, and allow space and time to connect with God more deeply. The retreat centre has all the hallmarks of thoughtful + considered. The amenities, resources and spaces given to reflect and appreciate God's natural creation are plentiful. The beautiful setting and surroundings make Sheldon an exceptional place to retreat. Would highly recommend.
Private Retreat - August 2024
Peaceful, beautiful surroundings, staff and volunteers all so positive and helpful, accommodation a real blessing, wildlife also a blessing, as was Tiny the cat. Great input from Margaret Silf and timetable spread out enough to allow reflection. Thanks to Hillary and her team for accommodating my difficult eating needs.
Margaret Silf Retreat - July 2024
I was able to have the peace and quiet to 'wait' which I know would have been difficult at home! I appreciated the times of worship and reflection in the chapel.
Private Retreat - July 2024
The retreat content was excellent and well paced to allow plenty of time for reflection. Margaret's leading was attentive and gentle (of course!) The meals were nutritious and staff and volunteers really helpful. This was my first stay at Sheldon and I was so impressed with the space and grounds with plenty of places to wonder.
Margaret Silf Retreat - July 2024
Lovely retreat - your care is so appreciated.
Private Retreat - July 2024
I really felt in need of time to relax and reset. I am about to start part-time training for ordination, but have had a particularly busy and stressful time at work recently. My retreat provided the time and space for me to get back into Theology mode. Our hen run was a lovely space for the two of us to share. It makes such a difference not having to think about preparing meals - or anything really. The thoughtful little touches like fresh flowers on the table made us feel very well cared for. Sheldon is such a special place. Driving in through twisty lanes gives a sense of dislocation from the rest of the world The farmland is beautiful and we very much enjoyed visiting the sheep and identifying various wildflowers and birds. Morning prayers was very moving, with some really beautiful words and images in the liturgy.
Private Retreat - July 2024
We were very much in need of a peaceful retreat after a very busy month at our church. We enjoyed sharing the Coop because we had plenty of space to ourselves as individuals, but we also enjoyed sharing meals and being able to discuss ideas that each of us wanted to explore. It was such a luxury being able to forget about the busyness of everyday life - cooking, shopping, housework, Law, writing sermons.... Everything we could possibly need was provided for us. I always enjoy walking the labyrinth and greeting the sheep. There's plenty of space to go for a good walk, and well-located seats to sit and think. We also enjoyed the wild flowers and bird song. I'll be preparing and preaching 6 sermons during August and now feel refreshed and ready to be creative. Thank you for your wonderful hospitality. It couldn't have been better!
Private Retreat - July 2024
I was left to my own devices in the wonderful accommodation and beautiful surroundings to benefit in a light touch way. It was great to be able to share in the rhythm of daily prayers led by a member of the resident community. The stocked larder was varied and more than adequate for my stay.
Private Retreat - June 2024
I think this was my 9th time that I have enjoyed my 'quiet time' at Sheldon. I can now say that I have experienced the place in all the seasons, apart from Christmas time! I have just had some days there in June in the warm weather. I appreciate the peace, the nature around me, especially the rabbits on the lawn in the morning and evening, along with the House martins (or swifts) darting about. It gives your whole self a chance to unwind, relax and find space to think, pray without distraction, ponder, read and enjoy your surroundings. The private walks around Sheldon are always beneficial and appreciated, with plenty of seats to stop and ponder while looking over the gorgeous views. I took part in Morning Prayer this time, which brings you to what is important first thing before the day, & is short and sweet. Thank you team.
Private Retreat - June 2024
Provided space and comfortable surroundings
Private Retreat - June 2024
This is a gentle, hospitable, spacious place, in which I have found it possible to relax and dwell in prayer with God. I have loved walking around the area, noticing a variety of birds and rabbits, with a few Roe Deer surprising me. The Perch is a very comfortable set up with everything I could need - community members so helpful when making enquiries. The food of the stocked larder delicious and fully appropriate for my dietary needs. Generous!. All in all - a beautiful, spiritual place - I have spent much time at The Hermitage, Labyrinth and in Chapel. Thank you. The Art Shed is great! I will book again.
Private Retreat - June 2024
Lovely peaceful setting, and just time to decompress from the business of life! Thank you for the space.
Private Retreat - June 2024
I found my stay at Sheldon useful, helpful and enjoyable because of the attention to detail, without fuss, is amazing from simple flowers of welcome to the contents of the fridge and the wonder of the Linhay garden in its mid-summer splendour to the skilful touch of Philippa, the masseur and the faithful prayers of the community. All creates a space for rest, recreation, refreshment and a channel for reconnecting with the God who made us, cares for us and redeems us. Thank you so much.
Private Retreat - June 2024
I love coming here. This is my fifth visit and I always feel such a strong sense of peace from the moment I step out of the car. I love the art room and spend hours happily playing in there. I also stroll around the grounds in God's creation. I have a large and busy family and my yearly trips here help me to find balance. Centre myself on Jesus and carry on the journey. I also adore sitting in both the chapels. Again it feels so peaceful and I can feel the love poured into the place. Thank you
Private Retreat - June 2024
Thank you for making my stay so relaxing & pleasurable as always.
Private Retreat - June 2024
I found my stay at Sheldon useful/helpful and enjoyable because I needed to stop! Having a restful, beautiful place in which to walk, cycle and enjoy the beauty of God's creation was great. Having access to the Art Shed provided some necessary diversion. Having access to the library meant I could read and reflect on some spiritual issues I would not have otherwise, and having healthy, tasty meals provided was wonderful. Thank you, to the community here and the volunteers. It was a great retreat.
R5 - May 2024
I found my stay at Sheldon enjoyable because of the attention to detail. It is modern, everything works, and happy, helpful volunteers/staff
R5 - May 2024
It was wonderfully led by Brian Draper who had put so much thought into the input for each day. Scripture, music, poetry, appreciation of the setting etc. Staff and volunteers so friendly and accommodating. Facilities comfortable - great bed.
Brian Draper Retreat - May 2024
My stay was enjoyable and restorative - the retreat was wonderfully led by Brian Draper. The staff have been so friendly and helpful. Thank you to everyone.
Brian Draper Retreat - May 2024
The content of the retreat was excellent. The room was very comfortable and welcoming. The care and expertise that has been put into the development of this site and centre is phenomenal and great things have been achieve by all the hard work. The food was delicious and the team very friendly. Thank you to the team for all you do and have done for us. Kindness, love and welcome abound. Blessings to you and to Sheldon.
Brian Draper Retreat - May 2024
Brian Draper is an outstanding communicator and really bought faith real and alive. Book him again.
Brian Draper Retreat - May 2024
Loved it (again). Sharp kitchen knife very much appreciated.
Private Retreat - May 2024
Beautiful and well kept grounds to explore; beautiful chapels. Generous food, good variety and hearty portions. Quiet, with space to encounter God. Lovely labyrinth. Excellent facilities and comfortable rooms. Very friendly and helpful staff who often went "above and beyond". Thank you. Restful, peaceful and restorative.
Brian Draper Retreat - May 2024
Quiet but comprehensive hospitality - great food, lovely surroundings. Thought provoking material delivered in a warm accepting, inclusive way. Opportunity to enjoy the labyrinth, art shed, all the ground.
Brian Draper Retreat - May 2024
Brian was an excellent retreat leader. Stunning and beautiful countryside. Great facilities. Thank you to all.
Brian Draper Retreat - May 2024
I was made so welcome. The food and accommodation was excellent. It was an easy place to be still.... and to pray.... and just wait on God.
Private Retreat - May 2024
I found my stay at Sheldon useful/helpful/enjoyable because of the space to 'be'. We were well looked after with love and care, the meals were delicious and my needs re not eating curry, were met with a very enjoyable salmon steak. The room was very comfortable, clean and tidy - I was able to catchup with some much needed sleep and reading. The company and morning prayer in the chapel I found helpful and uplifting - time for reflection and renewal. Carry on doing what you do so well. I look forward to visiting Sheldon again.
R5 - May 2024
I found my stay at Sheldon helpful because of the space and freedom to manage myself and my activities and time during my stay. Food, as ever, is plentiful and of good quality and varied "menu". The Art Shed provided an excellent "other brain" activity on wet(tish) days.
Private Retreat - May 24
Sheldon is peaceful - it provides balm for the soul and spirit. This R5 week had exactly the right mix of companionship and community at shared mealtimes and space to do as you liked and needed during the day. The two prayer times (voluntary) provided - small but spiritual spaces. The whole site is a delight - the food excellent and lovingly prepared and served and the staff and volunteers so caring of their guests.
R5 - May 2024
Well looked after - food inc special diet, accommodation and Art Shed provision/leader. Well catered for. Well cared for - esp my 1:1.
R5 - May 2024
Wonderful! The Art Shed, esp with Sue as artist in residence. The food plentiful and delicious. The team - so gracious with enormous servant hearts. The rooms very well maintained and so clean. Beautiful surroundings.
R5 - May 2024
Lovely room (Pound House). Amazing homecooked food and not having to think about food or clearing up. Lovely and kind volunteers and staff. No clergy shop talk rule!
R5 - May 2024
It allowed us to be looked after for a few day and was a great blessing.
R5 - May 2024
I much appreciated the freedom of the R5 format, and value the regular rhythm/cycle of morning and evening prayer (including the generous silences). The springtime surrounds are a great inspiration, and the warm welcome and lavish hospitality have been a great source of strength. Many thanks.
R5 - May 2024
This has been a wonderful week. It has been such a blessing to meet with God in the simplicity and beauty of this space.
Private Retreat - May 2024
I loved the peace and the beautiful surroundings. Carla's reflections were insightful and she gave us useful references for the future. I needed a break and I found it here. Beyond the actual retreat it was touches like a posy of flowers in my room that felt so welcoming and the housekeeping/catering team definitely put the "treat" into "retreat".
Carla Grosch-Miller retreat - April 2024
The atmosphere was one of open-hearted hospitality. I relaxed into the gentle beauty of the surroundings; was nourished by delicious, wholesome food; rested in my spacious room with wonderful view; appreciated the art room, library, chapels and enjoyed being brought into the day with the beautiful rhythms of morning prayer. Carla's leading was profound; she enabled me to stop, breathe and be refreshed and reenergised by the spirit.
Carla Grosch-Miller retreat - April 2024
I found my stay at Sheldon useful/helpful and enjoyable because of the beauty of the place - plenty of time to reflect and be. There was just enough input, most of which was inspiring and helpful with enough to challenge and work with....
Carla Grosch-Miller retreat - April 2024
Warm, spacious hospitality. Very comfortable accommodation. Beautiful grounds. Ethos that enables freedom to relax and be refreshed, warmly held by the community. Particular thanks for the delicious gluten free meals and baking. Please invite Carla back to run another retreat next year!
Carla Grosch-Miller retreat - April 2024
Clean, welcoming accommodation. Friendly, helpful staff. Delicious stocked larder food. Joining in with morning and evening prayer. Beautiful grounds. Space and time to be with God. Relaxing massage.
Private Retreat - April 2024
Hospitable space. Good Company. Art Shed, fantastic facility. Good food. Very comfortable room. Beautiful environment. Room to rest and listen to God.
R5 - April 2024
Thank you for all the hard work that you do to enable others to have the peace and the space to switch off and be with God.
Private Retreat - April 2024
I found my stay at Sheldon useful/helpful/enjoyable because I needed the emotional, mental and spiritual space.
Private Retreat - April 2024
Luxury of unfilled time. Luxury of beautiful surroundings. Luxury of generous and welcoming hospitality.
R5 - April 2024
Such a warm and caring environment that was supportive and yet respectful of my need for space and rest. Beautiful grounds and lovely food in my fridge/freezer! I loved seeing the lambs and the wildlife all around was so refreshing. Spiritual direction was so helpful and massage lovely. Thank you.
Private Retreat - April 2024
The gentle welcome and unobtrusive hospitality. The space to be a 'Mary' for a while, instead of 'Martha'. The comfortable surroundings and amazing home-cooked food (stocked larder). The beauty of the spring Devon Countryside, both on and off-site. The Lord's peace. Thank you!!
Private Retreat - April 2024
Very comfortable room in stunning countryside with chorus of bird-song. Members of the community who I met were very welcoming. The medieval chapel was perfect for silent prayer.
Private Retreat - March 2024
I found my stay at Sheldon so peaceful & scenic. I was upgraded to St Mary's Lodge which was wonderful - nice and secluded. I LOVED the Sanctuary prayer room, which I hadn't discovered before. Scarcity of other guests during my stay meant I had free reign in it. Appreciated the stocked larder, especially the home reared lamb dish.
Private Retreat - March 2024
I found my stay at Sheldon enjoyable because of the excellent weather, excellent selection of gins, excellent setting, lovely staff and volunteers. The art shed gave a focus for the week to explore new creative ideas (even without the artist in residence - although this would have added to the enjoyment.
R5 - March 2024
I found my stay at Sheldon useful/helpful/enjoyable because of the immense kindness, flexibility and inobtrusive prayerfulness of the community and the beautifully ordered space and lovely grounds.
R5 - March 2024
I was so well looked after which allowed time for rest. The food was amazing. The art shed was a wonderful resource and really appreciated. As a clergy spouse, I was surprised at being included in the same way as clergy - this has been a real validation of what is or can be a very strange "non" job. The non clergy talk was a great rule because it is exclusive (& really boring!!) You could not have been any more fantastic.
R5 - March 2024
All of the usual things including peace, lovely garden and grounds, comfortable accommodation, library, chapels. Self-catering works well for us. I especially appreciated the sanctuary space birdsong in the gardens and Nicole Slee's 'Sabbath' book this time. Thank you all very much and thanks for getting the tap sorted so quickly.
Private Retreat - March 2024
Nothing was too much trouble and I was made really welcome and left alone to relax and retreat. Fed wonderfully.
R5 - March 2024
This is not the first time I have arrived at Sheldon "Burnt out" and although I have had to work some of the time I have been here, it's a wonderful place to catch up. I have sat upstairs watching the changing weather which has been quite wonderful. I do feel refreshed and less exhausted. This is helped by truly being left alone with God.
Private Retreat - March 2024
Thank you for my stocked larder for 24 hrs - so tasty and just the right amount (even cake!!) So grateful for the opportunity to have a 1:2:1 with Carl - it is such a precious gift to chart the turning of seasons, and have that long view across my time coming here and it is a wonderful place to have space to reflect, receive and recoup. Thank you to the community, staff and volunteers.
Christopher Chapman Retreat - February 2024
Christopher spoke very gently and sensitively but he also made it very personal. It wasn't 'this is how its done' but these are different ways of praying and meeting with God and reorganising it's sometimes difficult to set aside specific times. God is always there for us. One to one session was helpful. It would be helpful to have music ? light classical at meal times.
Christopher Chapman Retreat - February 2024
The learning was real, relevant and richly rewarding. Nowt needed improving, best visit yet. Thank you especially for the love conveyed in hospitality, food and sensitive support.
Christopher Chapman Retreat - February 2024
I found my stay at Sheldon useful/helpful/enjoyable because of the location, content of retreat, hospitality, organisation, thoroughness - lamb casserole a stunner. The qualities of facilities and care to detail here is exceptional. It would have been great to have possibility of a change to breakfast (eggs, sausages, bacon?) Music at mealtimes, I found the silence at communal events, trying!...
Christopher Chapman Retreat - February 2024
The week has been all I needed it to be. Space, silence, rest, joy. I thought I was coming to prepare for this next chapter by planning/doing. What I found was the preparation I really needed - resting/being. The food was delicious! Once again making me feel nourished in the deepest sense of the word. The tucked away space has been a complete gift. Thank you
Private Retreat - February 2024
I found my stay at Sheldon helpful and enjoyable because of the welcome and hospitality given at Sheldon. The 'personal' approach and yet respect of privacy. The content of the retreat was exceptional. Silence was respected and encouraged. Thank you. The chapel at the end of the Long Barn buildings was very cold, it would be very helpful to be able to use that more comfortably.
Christopher Chapman Retreat - February 2024
It provided me with space to slow down, unwind, relax and let God get through to me. I very much appreciated the good, hospitality food and not having to do the washing up.
Christopher Chapman Retreat - February 2024
I was able to email the week before my stay when I suddenly got some unexpected space and be told that yes I could come which was a huge weight off me. The accommodation was perfect to enable me to rest, relax and walk when the weather allowed! It was just what I needed.
Private Retreat - February 2024
It is a second 'home'! Familiarity makes it an easy place to 'be' and with its ministry of hospitality, there is the opportunity to press the pause button.
Private Retreat - February 2024
I found my stay at Sheldon useful because of the warmth of welcome and space without intrusion. This blend you have operated and cultivated is rare and deeply safe and restorative. I liked the touches such as: soft toys in lodge and sanctuary, flowers, thoughtful attentiveness, to books left, colour, etc. Body wash being available as well as 1:1 time to talk were very helpful.
Private Retreat - February 2024
I found my stay at Sheldon helpful because it provided a wonderful space to be, reflect and pray with all the facilities I needed. I particularly appreciated the walks, benches to sit on, places to pray and the art shed to create.
Private Retreat - February 2024
The beauty of the setting. The attractiveness and overall comfort of the accommodation. The quality and variety of food - for a vegetarian. The clear, gentle manner in which the programme was handled. The simple yet stimulating worship.
R5 - February - 2024
It was a late booking for me so an unexpected treat. I loved the workshop and hope it will run again at Sheldon. Thank you for the quality of caring, giving chance of rest and nurture. I love staying in the Pound House and the decision to stay an extra night, and the possibility of doing so was brilliant. I may do this again! I think the workshop would have been better with an extra day. It was intense and a little more reflective time would have been appreciated.
Icons Retreat - 2024
The staff and volunteers were kind and caring, nothing was too much trouble. My room was comfortable and the food was good. The retreat gave me a pause in the busyness of lent to be creative.
Icons Retreat - 2024
It gave me 2 precious days with only painting to think about. I would love to do this again next year.
Icons Retreat - 2024
A wonderful gift of peace and quiet in a superb location. An absolute blessing. The Linhay Lodges are so comfortable, and have a great base. They are provided with everything you could possibly need. The art room was new since our last visit and a wonderful resource for exploration and self-expression. Thank you for providing such a special resource for those in ministry.
Private Retreat - February 2024
I found my stay at Sheldon useful/helpful/enjoyable because of the kindness and gentle hospitality of volunteers and community alike. Thank you. Room & wet room very good. Liked the heated mirror.
R5 - February 2024
Gave space/time for reflection - atmosphere calming/spiritual support routine. Friendly/great food/hospitality/comfortable space/good walks/ very helpful guides.
R5 - February 2024
I found my stay very helpful because of the friendly welcome at the outset by the staff. It was useful to have the convenience of the Chapel at any time of the day. It also formed a respite for not having to cook or prepare my own meals. It provided space for me in respect of re-evaluating my various occupations at home - despite being officially retired.
R5 - February 2024
I valued the rhythm of space and solitude interspersed with sociable meal times and gathering in the bar. Clare's session/intro into the Labyrinth was particularly helpful as were her resources she generously shared during the week. I'm always grateful for interesting finds in the library and for the care and support of members of the community and your wonderful team of volunteers. Thank you for all you do and all that you are.
R5 - February 2024
I appreciate you being able to fit me in for a retreat this week. It was a time of rest and refreshment. I found my time with you a real time of blessing
Private Retreat - February 2024
Always special to stay in this place of rest and refreshment - even on a work party.
Candlemas Work Party - February 2024
A pleasure to have been here as always. A peaceful time of prayer and reflection in the lovely surroundings and facilities at Sheldon. Thank you for your hospitality and all that you do.
Private Retreat - February 2024
As ever the accommodation was comfortable and well provided. First experience of the Hen Run - very happy in it. Art Room - I enjoyed several happy hours there - no masterpiece, but very relaxing. ASH WEDNESDAY SERVICE - I found the liturgy and format most helpful and beautifully lead. I was blessed by it and being here again. Thank you sincerely, Sheldon friends.
Private Retreat - February 2024
I needed rest, long (new) walks, time to reflect, non judgemental and friendly, awesome views, good food, time to connect & pray
R5 New Year - January 2024
It is in such a beautiful setting surrounded by wonderful countryside. The grounds were a delight and full of birds, the accommodation superb. It was also a very peaceful place and the staff so kind and helpful and caring. All together a very relaxing few days and the birding was brilliant.
Andrew Mann Retreat - January 2024
A lovely quiet venue in beautiful countryside. I had a lovely, very spacious room. The service and meals were of a high standard. It was all very enjoyable. Some of the group were surprised and puzzled that there were still covid mitigation policies. Personally, I was pleased when I booked to see this was the case I help look after my elderly mother and have been mindful of the risk to her of catching covid.
Andrew Mann Retreat - January 2024
Everything about my few days with you has been wonderful, the accommodation is so comfortable, the room has all I need, the food delicious and nourishing, everyone so friendly. The birding trips each day were amazing. So therapeutic, with the learning, the spotting birds, listening to the songs and calls. Andrew is such a good guide, kind and informative. Great social group too. I only have good comments to make for the whole time I've been here. Thank you for looking after me so well!
Andrew Mann Retreat - January 2024
Great hospitality, great food, lovely rooms, gorgeous location, easy to find.
Andrew Mann Retreat - January 2024
It was a perfect base for birding trips around south and east Devon. The accommodation, hospitality and catering were all excellent, being gluten free was not an issue at all and my room in the Pound House was modern, fully equipped with everything required and very comfortable. The staff and volunteers could not have been more welcoming and it was a pleasure to share mealtimes with them. The purpose of my visit, a birding week, Migrating Birds led by Andrew Mann, was well planned & executed. His knowledge & love of birds made each venue we visited so enjoyable & it's definitely a programme that is aimed at both seasoned birders and complete beginners alike. I would have like to be able to spend some time exploring the Sheldon Retreat grounds & local area but this wasn't possible at this time of year, when it gets dark so early. Repeating the programme sometime between May & September would be a good idea, I will definitely come again.
Andrew Mann Retreat - January 2024
Staff and supporters all very welcoming. Accommodation comfortable and well appointed. Location beautiful and peaceful. Home cooked dinners (often with local ingredients)! Because of what Andrew had organised, we spent the day watching some wonderful birds in beautiful local countryside with a really nice group of people. As someone who has travelled a lot for work and stayed in a lot of hotels, it would always be possible to say that a option of a hot breakfast would be good, or the use of better (bread machine) bread in the sandwiches would improve the offering, but this overlooks what is practical and appropriate for this type of event. For myself, and some of the others in the group, the time-out enjoying being in nature watching wildlife and with like-minded people around us is a very important element in coping with the turmoil and difficulties in our lives. I very much hope that Andrew will be holding more such events with you in the future and look forward to returning.
Andrew Mann Retreat - January 2024
I loved my time at Sheldon - my room and arrival was warm and cosy and the food was excellent. I really enjoyed the days out in the minibus watching birds and wildfowl. I hope that you run this again!
Andrew Mann Retreat - January 2024
Accommodation, food, facilities & hospitality was as usual excellent, with huge attention to detail including catering so well for those with special diets. Appreciate being able to have "space" & enjoy beautiful surroundings. Covid precautions very sensible. Perhaps consider meal times and have lunch at 1pm and eve meal at 6.30pm so more evenly spaced and allows more time in morning before rushing back? Perhaps also the option for 2 meals a day instead of 3? and going back for desert when ice-cream not so melted.
R5 New Year - January 2024
Everything was lovely, bed, company, food. Hospitality, all the staff. It was very helpful having the taxi booked for me to go home.
R5 New Year - January 2024
Thank you once again - for peace, restoration, sanctuary and stillness. I am called here at a junction of my ministry - and now - stepping into the role of Associate Minister at a new church - I feel again called and equipped for the task ahead.
Private Retreat - January 2024
The space to just be, with all of the meals and support needed. Wonderful staff and facilities.
R5 New Year - January 2024
I want to thank you for the incredible opportunity to stay at Sheldon for the first time this week. My stay comes towards the end of one of the most difficult periods of my life and the opportunity to rest, reassess and recover to some extent has been a profound gift. I leave as a friend hoping to return. With huge gratitude and love.
R5 New Year - January 2024
The retreat was very well organised, and the staff looked after my gluten-free diet wonderfully. I loved my room and the chance to roam around the ground (and beyond) between sessions.
Carys Walsh Advent Retreat Dec 2023
1. Very good retreat leader and fantastic commentary on the poems chosen. 2. Quiet and inconspicuous care of those at Sheldon - good food, attentive service, and smiles. 3. It had everything I needed for a retreat - spiritual imput, daily prayers, quiet well equipped rooms and good food, and lovely walks on and off site. A couple of helpful suggestions; maybe schedule in some discussions after the main sessions on poetry as it is good to share other people's perspectives and possibly add another session in; I could have eagerly faced more poetry!
Carys Walsh Advent Retreat Dec 2023
I found my stay at Sheldon helpful and enjoyable because of the excellent leadership of Carys Walsh, the nutrituous and delicious food and the ambience of unobtrusive care.
Carys Walsh Advent Retreat Dec 2023
It was warm, (yes!) comfortable and obviously loved and cared for. The paths within the compound are smooth and will lit - important if you are prone to tripping. The meals were enjoyable. Thank you for your love and care. I would very much have liked an afternoon session! firstly because I loved the time with Carys; secondly because it make a very long afternoon, particularly in the colder months.
Carys Walsh Advent Retreat Dec 2023
I found my stay at Sheldon useful, helpful and enjoyable because it was a time to have days in silence to get away from the busyness of Advent; to take time out, to read, pray, walk and relax. I am no poet, nor have I had much interest in poetry to date but it was good to learn - another way of discerning the divine. Name badges on staff would be helpful. Perhaps an extra session of Carys Walsh early afternoon and a short homily at the Eucharist to gather all together would have been nice.
Carys Walsh Advent Retreat Dec 2023
Space, being quietly held, nourished, healed. Spacious rhythm, access to beautiful surroundings, kindness of food prepared, thoughtful attention. Sitting with these wonderful poets, locating myself in the grand sweep of God's story with them. I really appreciated the veggi lasagne, it's all delicious, but a day without meat was a good thing. I am endlessly curious about people, so on one level lots of biographical information was great, but for the purposes of retreat and contemplation I would have liked less of that, more theological reflection on the poems and the theological underpinnings of them (when we got to that stuff my heart soared).
Carys Walsh Advent Retreat Dec 2023
The welcome and care from everyone was extraordinary. Particular mention must be made of Sarah and Esther's effort in getting 3 stranded visitors to Sheldon - hospitality taken to another level. The food was delicious, the bedroom spacious and well appointed. Lovely ground. The library is very well stocked and cosy. The retreat leader excellent. Thank you to everyone.
Carys Walsh Advent Retreat Dec 2023
It's location to an event we were attending was good.
Private Retreat Dec 2023
I had a calm and restorative stay. Those who were working were cheerful & as always I am grateful for Sheldon's ministry...
R5 Nov 2023
I found the 1-1 conversation really helpful in helping me to think about what I really want/need in my next post. The group of people on R5 made it really enjoyable. The session on labyrinths was really interesting and useful and I had the opportunity to just be. My only suggestion would be the desk/chair combination in my room were too high and didn't seem to fit together. Something at a normal height would be better.
R5 Nov 2023
It was like coming home. Familiarity has meant I can slip back into the pattern of the Sheldon Retreats quickly. Each time there is always something new and this time it was discovering the vast array of twigs out in the woods and in the fields. The staff and volunteers as always so welcoming and pleased to help. You never go hungry and the food is excellent.
Steve Radley retreat Nov 2023
When I was grieving - you sheltered me When I was hungry, physically and spiritually - you fed me When I was frightened - you protected me When I needed solitude and sanctuary - you guarded me. Thank you all from the bottom of my heart and soul.
Unfortunately working out the bins was too much for my fried brain...
Private retreat Nov 2023
The team of staff and volunteers really made me feel welcomed and at home. Every comfort was offered with care and love without being intrusive. The food was beautifully prepared and served. It was satisfying to know that it had been mostly grown or sourced locally; and the drinks were fairly traded as well as delicious. The library was well stocked with current/up to date books and a lovely nook to in which to retreat to read. The last minute e-mail to help me navigate the road closures and arrive safely was a blessing. The art room is beautifully situated and a real gift of a space. Some of the materials in the art room would benefit from being re-stocked. Sheldon has become a home from home where I have felt sheltered, cherished and refreshed. I look forward to finding an opportunity to return next year. I did not think to pack a hair dryer, was only available on request? {web editor: yes hair dryers are available on request}.
Steve Radley retreat Nov 2023
There was some gentle, warm hospitality in such lovely, beautifuly decorated and furnished accommodation. Space to walk, to be, to think, to read and pray. The time learning about and experiencing the labyrinth was a real highlight. Thank you for another blessed retreat. The chair and desk in my room could have been more compatible (PH4). The chair wasn't high enough to use for a computer or to write comfortably. I understand the high window! Not a problem.
R5 Nov 2023
I was looking for a peacefuly place where I could be alone after a busy time supporting family members through illness and bereavement. I found what I was looking for here. Thank you! I was disappointed that I couldn't enjoy the dark skies here in the Devon Countryside because of the many lights on site. Is there a way that balances visitor safety and reducing light pollution? e.g. fewer lights; downward facing lights; switching off of the lights at, say, 10 or 11pm.
Private Retreat Nov 2023
We were able to speak, thankfully not about work! The room was very well appointed and I particularly welcomed the cleaning materials to clean the washbasin. The staff are very helpful and friendly. My first meeting was with Dawn who was confident and obliging. The Fat Pigeon bar was a good ice breaker and the food delicious and varied. Thank you for a wonderful retreat, time to think, pray, read and create artistic works without interuptions or guilt. It was my first visit but I hope to be back soon.
R5 Nov 2023
The past 5 days have been exactly as I hoped they would be. The weather has been particularly kind, but within the setting atmosphere of Sheldon, I have had time to think, to pray, to walk, to rest, to read, to be quiet, but above all, to feel at peace. I am most grateful.
Private Retreat Nov 2023
It gives space to rest and relax with no expectations. The setting and the community provide an environment that is both accepting and subsequently restorative.
R5 Nov 2023
Lovely food, wonderful atmosphere, craft ideas and company ideal in the shed. I received all of the 5 R's in abundance and the bar is great too. Thank you.
R5 Nov 2023
I found my stay at Sheldon enjoyable because of the following; good quality of welcome, no shoptalk allowed, excellent food, comfortable and warm rooms with lovely duvets and great sense of hospitality. A suggestion to look at your car charging costs as cars have different size batteries; so a 'full charge' for one is different to another.
Steve Radley retreat Nov 2023
Sheldon provides a safe space - peace and quiet in beautiful surroundings, with gentle support and solitude, yet not isolated. Stillness, yet also - a chance to exercise. A womb-like feel, healing and restorative, without having to explain anything.
Private Retreat Nov 2023
The Roost is comfortable and homely and warm! The food is delicious - and I appreciate the peace and quiet. It's good to know the community members are around to help if needed. The shower is brilliant. I could have stayed much longer! - But I need to get back to churches and family!
Private Retreat Nov 2023
I found everything at Sheldon amazing - accommodation, facilities, food and hosts. Could not recommend it higher, a really wonderful place in which to rest and connect with God.
Steve Radley retreat Nov 2023
The peacefulness, daily services, labyrinth and very helpful 1-1, the old chapel is a beautiful place to stop and be. The community were very kind and welcoming and the facilities were simply fantastic.
Private Retreat Oct 2023
I loved the laid back feeling, choice within structure. I really appreciated the quality of your buildings, and the way you look after your land. I absolutely loved the Art Centre and the joy of being creative again. I loved the servant heart of all who cared for us. It was greatly enhanced by the group I was with. This only thing and it is just my feeling; I had a lovely room, Room 9 in Long Barn, lovely view of the cross, but it doesn't get the sun this time of year, and some times the room was a little on the cool side.
R5 Oct 2023
I spent the first 3 days alone in the quiet, peaceful environment which was really beneficial. Then I was able to join with the other good, like minded people at meal times on the R5. I loved my times with Sue Ashby in the Art Shed -the fun I enjoyed at my new artistic attempts. In my opinion, nothing could be better with all that Sheldon has to offer.
R5 Oct 2023
So much care and attention has been given to all aspects of your hospitality..
R5 Oct 2023
Every facet of the week was perfect for us - Clare's Lodge was comfortable, warm and homely. We were able to relax and step aside from our daily routines and fit with the rhythm of Sheldon. Wonderful! Thank you
Private Retreat Oct 2023
Fantastic hospitality - light-touch welcome and clear instructions and timetable. Excellent facilities and beautifully kept grounds. Delicious food - I love that the decaffeinated coffee is as good as the regular stuff. Prayerful atmosphere. 1 to 1 sessions felt safe and helpful. Art facilities and facilitator were a blessing.
R5 Oct 2023
There is always a warm welcome. However I am feeling when I arrive, I know when I leave I will feel uplifted and restored. Thank you again from my heart.
R5 Oct 2023
Thank you for all you do to make a few days at Sheldon such a special time. Your thoughtful, sensitive care and provision somehow, without words, speak eloquently of God's love. The stocked larder was excellent. As it says in the welcome information, it is indeed a blend of healthy eating and 'treats' - perfect! As well as being a time of rest and restoration, these days have given us an opportunity to focus on the relationship between our faith and care of the environment. Where better to do this than in a place where reverence for God's creation has been understood and lived out for many years. Thank you again.
Private Retreat Oct 2023
Hen Run Roost - Fabulous space, clean, warm and everything I needed. Love the underfloor heating. Art Shed fabulous as always.
Private Retreat Oct 2023
Lots of space, generous, delicious hospitality. Having my own place felt like such a gift after the past 6 months - Tonic. Labyrinth with Claire was a real highlight, having been very unsure because of group activity, profound gift. Just my own expectations; After the silent retreat in March, the chatter, as happy as it was, a struggle (even more grateful for my own space). This isn't in anyway a complaint, more noticing in myself how much I have need quiet since being ill. Sheldon increasingly plays such an important part in my spiritual life. I have found it to be deeply healing this week. As ever, a deep sense of cherishing and care. Gift. 'A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap', Luke 6:38. How this week has felt for me.
R5 Oct 2023
Being able to dip into the art sessions was superb. There was enough input to get me started, but then space to run with the ideas and develop them. Space to be! No expectations of anything to be done, participated in or completed. Just as much as you wanted to do. Tea/Coffee station in the Art Shed would help; we got so involved in our art that we didn't stop for drinks.
R5 Oct 2023
Beautiful view, peaceful and quiet atmosphere in a well equipped, comfortable centre. I found the R5 retreat perfect for me, with company at meals and plenty of personal space in between. I particularly appreciated the care over my dietary needs, and also the no clergy shop talk rule (as a non-clergy person!). I also particularly appreciated the desk and chair in my room, as on retreat I like to spend a good bit of my time writing or drawing - my knee problems make chair height very important, as pain results from chairs that are too high or low. I occasionally brought a dining chair from the long barn dining room into the long barn lounge (e.g. for the labyrinth talk), the chair at my desk in the long barn was just the right height and this really enhanced my stay (in Long Barn). I also appreciated the air monitoring and filtration system, and the thoughtfulness behind that in these Covid-aware days, which added to the general sense of this being a "safe place" to be - in more ways than one!
R5 Oct 2023
As usual wonderfully looked after by community and volunteers. Delicious food and super comfy bed. Very cosy. I've not been on an R5 before - I usually come alone and stay in one of the cottages. The R5 felt more like a House party than a retreat, but I do feel more rested as I prepare to leave. Charmaine was an absolute blessing - really encouraging and delightful, 'creating' a really supportive atmosphere in the shed and enabling me to be creative in ways I would never have done before. Claire's talk on the labyrinth was also interesting - but walking the labyrinth as a 'cloud of witnesses' together in silent, prayerful companionship was the perfect way to celebrate All Hallow's Day. I would never have considered doing so with others but there was something truly wonderful about being held in prayer by those who had finished their walk as I continued mine. It would be nice to have tea/coffee making facilities in the Art shed.
R5 Oct 2023
You gave me space to 'catch up' with myself without fuss. It was just the job, - especially in your beautiful surrounds...
Private Retreat Oct 2023
I have found my stay here at Sheldon, a most wonderful peaceful time. I am relaxed and can not sleep anymore. The staff are pleasant, they help in many ways to make you welcomed. The food is excellent and came to me, in nice warm plates. I thank all staff for what they have done.
R5 Oct 2023
A chance to take a step back from "ordinary" life and a space to hear the Lord, just be me. Warm and comfy. Love the library and a chance to see some of the latest publications. Love the art shed. Loved opening the fridge and enjoying the goodies, honey and mustard chicken. Minor Points - Better selection of tinned goods in food cupboards would be nice.
Private Retreat Oct 2023
Thank you so much for all your work, care, prayer and kind presence. This is a marvellous place which has given me a refreshing few days. I especially enjoyed the library and the walks. The Lord has touched my heart.
Private Retreat Oct 2023
With a grateful heart for all you have done for me this week. I have gained so much from my time with you and look forward to returning one day. May God continue to bless you all and the amazing ministry you offer.
Private Retreat Oct 2023
Such a beautiful location and wonderful facilities. This 3 day retreat in the middle of my sabbatical has been a lovely haven. I have sensed God's presence and been bathed in his peace. The ministry with Sarah was sensitive and helpful. The lodge was beautifully equipped with everything I could wish for, and the stocked larder was amazing - such lovely meals which catered to my dietory needs perfectly. In total, a taste of heaven! Thank you so much. I look forward to coming here again. I also loved the labyrinth and prayer walk around the grounds. Such a blessing!
Private Retreat Oct 2023
We needed a relaxing break. We got it. The stocked larder supplies were very delicious. All very tasty. You think of everything. All the staff were very helpful...
Private retreat Sep 2023
Such gentle & loving hospitality - so that I could just 'be' & receive the love of God and hear his call. The beautiful surroundings & the Art shed & the lounge set aside for us all contributed to an ability to glory in creation and find freedom in worship. Oh and the cakes - wow! and the food wow!. Thank you all so much...
Ordination retreat Sep 2023
As ever, it was lovely to be left completely to my own devices! Sheldon is wonderful as it is. The only thing I can think of is that it would be good to have an oven glove to get the food out of the oven! {web editor :this has been noted and provided} .
Private retreat Sep 2023
Thank you for accommodating me at (relatively) short notice. The Pigpen was perfect for me on my own - comfortable and everything I needed. Wet room very well-designed -did not flood ( unlike some others I have experienced in other places). It has been a blissful time- garden beautiful, woodland walk restorative, lovely to be able to meet some sheep, pray whilst walking the labyrinth, so peaceful. Time to rest and be safe & calm. Thank you staff for showing me gentle care & friendliness, and for coffee on my last day & freshly baked cookie.
Private retreat Sep 2023
I felt cared for by the community. I really appreciated the stocked larder and this time really appreciated the care of the estate and the many places to reflect and know God's grace. Thank you!
Private retreat Sep 2023
I know I could trust the catering team with my dietary needs. Thank you!. So pleased about the ventilation ! How wonderful not to have to sit in an over - warm, airless , stuffy room. Great to put on my boot and walk the fields! Thank you much appreciated. I would have found my stay more enjoyable if the mattress wasn't so soft!, if there were sheep bulletins - where they are for those of us who want to visit them , names on signs for fields...
Clare Herbert retreat Sep 2023
Food, accommodation and information were of the usual high standard, and reasonably priced. The silence was honoured. The medieval chapel is astonishingly good for prayer. The retreat leader had no books to sell but plenty to lend. A sad situation was handled with great kindness. I would have my stay more helpful if we had offered morning prayer with the community at 8am , the hot water in my room had been a little hotter!.
Clare Herbert retreat Sep 2023
As always welcoming, peaceful & Holy space time to read, walk, play in the art room & pray thank you for wonderful hospitality.
Private retreat Sep 2023
It feels safe and well - organised. The team made me feel welcome and cared for. Everything happened punctually so it felt calm & stress free. A guided walk for those wishing to explore beyond the grounds but didn't have the confidence to explore alone. This could be conducted in silence.
Clare Herbert retreat Sep 2023
Very good input , lots of space in every sense. Wonderful hospitality and attention to detail. Art room & library are both great resources. Loved my room with a view.
Clare Herbert retreat Sep 2023
The beautiful surroundings - grounds. Hills & woods and the deep sense of peace. The care and attention to every detail of hospitality. The simple kindness of this place.
Clare Herbert retreat Sep 2023
Really enjoyed being on a led retreat at Sheldon - and being so well fed and watered- delicious meals - thank you. Liked my room with lovely views. Mattress felt a bit lumpy - and back played up after the first night. But back fine thereafter. The walks in the hills behind as good as ever- and enjoyed the benches and the views and the air. It would have been nice to have a little chat in the bar on the last night as well as the first ( and going back to silence for the meal. But that's how the retreat was set up. Thank you also for looking after us all with monitoring the air). It was a bit of a challenge to come away from Sheldon.
Clare Herbert retreat Oct 2023
Thank you for all your hard work, creating such a cosy and beautifully clean guest accommodation ...
Private retreat Aug 2023
When I walked into Linhay Lodge and saw the teddy bear on the sofa, the homemade cake on the table, the handwritten note - I felt, for the first time something that I have never experienced since going into training for ministry at 21 as part of the push to “increase” vocations - that someone cared whether or not clergy on ground-level “make it”. It brought tears to my eyes. Thank you - I really cannot thank the community of Sheldon enough - to have the space to relax without being asked to minister, to recharge, to eat such delicious home-cooked food, to walk with fresh air, to enjoy a massage, and to feel the love of the community and God was a great gift.
Private retreat Aug 2023
As always, the accommodation was lovely - comfortable , clean & everything one needs. Made very welcome on arrival & given the space I needed. Sheldon is a wonderful oasis of peace & prayer. I also enjoyed the community's service of the rededication & hog roast on my last evening. Thank you to everyone!.
Private retreat Aug 2023
I made new friends and had a lot of family time so I really enjoyed it. I would have found my stay more enjoyable of we played team building or icebreaker games at the start to get to know everyone quicker.
Family holiday week Aug 2023
We found our stay useful, helpful & enjoyable because we wouldn't have been able to afford a holiday otherwise. This year we got to meet some really interesting people. Sheldon is like a second home and we love coming here. We would have found our stay more helpful if there would have been some introductions first night & more organised in the evening, e.g. pub quiz etc...
Family holiday week Aug 2023
Another fabulous family week. Such a peaceful place. Great to see old friends and meet new families. So safe that our son felt happy to have a little wonder on his own. And the fantastic Sheldon's got talent show. Cant wait to come back - wish we could stay forever!!. Thank you to all at Sheldon...
Family holiday week Aug 2023
We love being here & being cared for and looked after. Thank you for the dietary sensitivity, we always feel safe here. We could stay much longer...
Family holiday week Aug 2023
I absorbed all that Sheldon is, all it embodies day by day, receiving, I believe , all that God brought me here for. Rest, beauty, calm, hills, view , perspective, care. His gentle restorative touch through each of the team. Wisdom, listening, attentive , proofing, discovering, unearthing, massaged into every part body, mind, heart, soul & spirit, nourished and replenished with delicious food prepared for me. Thank you...
Private retreat Aug 2023
Everything runs so smoothly you don't have to worry about anything. The food was delicious, the massage was amazing...
Simon Parke retreat Aug 2023
Beautiful sacred space to 'be' with God & myself. Challenging space well held by Simon. Well led, searching, interesting retreat time. Good pace, Great food - loved the healthiness. Opportunity to walk, the labyrinth, the fields & surrounding countryside & get closer to nature. Guided walks helpful. I would have found my stay at Sheldon more helpful if there were 1 or 2 extra slightly longer guided walks from Sheldon itself for those of us with no car.
Simon Parke retreat Aug 2023
The retreat was peaceful, restorative ,thought provoking, containing enough to allow reflection & inner exploration. We found it incredibly helpful. The welcome, accommodation, food ( deeply caring & nurturing), made us feel very welcome. Thank you for all you do. Thank you for the extra days, it gave us a really peaceful buffer before we move on. The larder and genuine kindness is a great blessing. I was sad that Simon was not able to end the retreat with a mass/communion - but understand other anxieties. Interesting personal emotional reaction to re0visiting Covid restrictions, but fully understand the necessity. Thank you again
Simon Parke retreat Aug 2023
I needed a break of this kind in this years unusual rhythms. I so appreciated the flowers in my room once again- particularly the Dahlia with curled petals. The hospitality including the food was outstanding as ever-tastes of summer. I appreciate all that is done to keep Covid at bay , all that is prayed over and prayed for. Thank you. Observation : unlike a number of others present, I was not familiar with the regularity with which Simon invites the voices of others into daily silence. For that reason & because of the restlessness of some wove come , the silence has not been allowed to deepen which feels at present a loss. However as always Sheldon has been a place of birthing, restoration, nurturing & comfort.
Simon Parke retreat Aug 2023
The beauty of the space, inside and outside. The sense of being looked after so that I can focus on mu spiritual journey. Everything is provided. I enjoyed the silence and tranquilly punctuated by the sound of the sheep baaing and the laughter of the community in the kitchen. I appreciate the loveliness of those who work towards providing and maintaining this space. Also I would like to thank the team for adapting to and containing the brief breakdown in silence in such a kind way and practical way.
Simon Parke retreat Aug 2023
The beauty and peace of this place. We loved our Pigpen because it is so well fitted out and wonderfully well cleaned and maintained - and we really appreciated the view and that sweep of grass is in front of us. Great also to have the freedom of your grounds...
Private retreat Aug 2023
I had a clear agenda for the retreat and there was space and structure to meet all my needs for this time. I am so grateful for the friendly and caring staff who made me so welcome. I shall definitely come again...
R5 Aug 2023
Sheldon is utterly beautiful and peaceful. It doesn't clobber me with an imagery or spirituality which is not my own. That matters a lot to me- gives my soul space to be itself. Above all I like being as an adult, trusted to decide how to use the time for the best to suit my own needs not someone else's idea of a retreat. It's helpful that staff are plainly available bit on the other hand not fussing or intruding or imposing. Thank you. I would have found it helpful if there were clearer identifications of the rubbish bins outside and inside...
Private retreat Aug 23
The utter peace, quiet and beauty everywhere at Sheldon . The prayer at the front of the Welcome file has been so apt. Just for a while to put the responsibility of what I'm carrying to one side and slow down enough to see the colours in the hedge, has been invaluable. Thank you so much for living your grace filled vision...
Private retreat Jul 2023
It was wonderful to return to Sheldon and experience the kindness & care & the prayer behind every aspect of my stay, and in such an unobtrusive way. I have felt a deep sense of being held by God since I arrived. I greatly appreciated being in the Pig Pen as it meant I didn't need to battle with stairs. The room was comfortable and cosy and I really enjoyed being able to sit and watch the bees, butterflies, swifts and rabbits from '' my own '' bench. The retreat itself could have been designed especially for me. It was wonderful to hear so many of my feelings and concerns being expressed - I felt normal!. Christopher's humble sincerity his understanding of ministry & the effects it can have were truly a blessing...
Christopher Chapman retreat Jul 2023
It was a much valued time apart to rest , be with God , be fed and inspired by the talks from our Retreat conductor. I found our retreat inspiring and challenging and I am leaving feeling refreshed & challenged to make some changes in my lifestyle and to take better care of myself. Thank you to all the Sheldon community for looking after us so well - the food, the comfort and the peace & quiet and the setting . I wish I would have stayed longer! Look forward to returning one day...
Christopher Chapman retreat Jul 2023
The accommodation was modern, clean, comfortable. The food was tasty, well balanced & goof portions. The staff & volunteers were helpful, smiling & attentive. The content was relevant & gently presented. Silence was a gift too, knowing there was no obligation to make friends!. On a silent group retreat, I find myself at the end of the week wishing I could have connected just a little bit more with other pilgrims on the journey. One idea maybe to have the tea-time as a silence - free space...
Christopher Chapman retreat Jul 2023
The silence was held well, was non-threatening. The members of the group were all very able at communicating without words in a supportive way. The room in PH was very comfortable and welcoming - lovely furniture and the welcoming vase of flowers. The care of the community & volunteers, a lot of unseen of course but the seen care at meal time was gentle and so loving - thank you. Thank you for a safe place to be held in prayer and love while listening to what God might want to say. A safe and nourishing staging post for the journey...
Christopher Chapman retreat Jul 2023
The peace, facilities and space that guests are given on private retreats to allow us to ' do our thing in our way!'. I was unable to log into WIFI with either phone or tablet using the credentials supplied in the welcome pack. I just used mobile data instead. Just thought it was worth pointing for benefit of other...
Private retreat Jul 2023
We were left alone to find peace, but knew the team were there if we needed anything. We benefited greatly from the therapy & massage sessions. The food was lovely. The art shed was amazing! Thank you. We would have found our stay more enjoyable if you were closer to Blackpool. The only negative thing about the trip as the journey...
Private retreat Jul 2023
Perfect! Silence, freedom, prayer and a very well stocked larder. What more could I want?!
Private retreat Jul 2023
I’ve been to Sheldon several times,and have enjoyed and valued experiencing different kinds of retreats, so in May, but with some trepidation, I arranged a visit for two nights with two members of our clergy team and a group of parishioners.Our time was wonderful in every way.We had eleven residents and five people came for a day.Most had not been to Sheldon before, and all were entranced by the peace and beauty of its setting, the excellent accommodation and by being together to pray, study, worship and to relax. At the end it was unanimously agreed that we book another visit next year for 15 residents and to stay for three nights!
Parish retreat June 2023
We had a lovely week at Sheldon (June 19 - 26) recently. First with the R5 week, and then with stocked larder. I really enjoyed the 5R days, meeting other people for a chat and shared meals. The stocked larder was great too! The staff and volunteers were so friendly, and made us feel very welcome. This week was our main holiday outing for the year, and thank you so much for enabling us to have a lovely and affordable time away. Sheldon feels a safe place to be. I also very much enjoyed the countryside, with the buzzards in the next field and the swallows flying overhead in the evenings.
R5 and private retreat June 2023
The community & volunteers were so welcoming and really looked after us all. Sue, the artist in residence, was absolutely fantastic and made the art shed a much more creative space for those who hadn't come with a clear idea of what they wanted to achieve. I would have found my stay more helpful if there was some basic information/suggestions somewhere on ways to use the labyrinth space - perhaps a board by it. For those who aren't familiar with the concept...
R5 June 2023
Everything about my stay has been wonderful- my reason to continue returning. The resident community are always kind and helpful, also the volunteers. The meals excellent. My fellow guests were all compatible & we enjoyed fun & fellowship together. The quiet times alone walking in these beautiful grounds have given me the peace with God which for me is so beneficial. Sue, resident artist inspired me to be creative, shared laughter! Always good!. Thank you all!...
R5 June 2023
I found my stay at Sheldon enjoyable because I can be in an unpressurised environment. Always great, and terrific volunteers!. I would have found my stay more enjoyable if there was more shade out...
R5 June 2023
The welcome was great, the freedom to order my day was great, the peace and quiet was great. The food as ever was generous and tasty. The room was simple but I did miss the comfy sofa. The worship was helpful. Thank you. You have a lovely thing here, it doesn't need changing, hold on to your humanity and faith...
Private retreat June 2023
Everything about my stay in my lovely Pig Pen has been wonderful indeed!. Peace calm, no intrusion. A feeling of the Holy Spirit around. The beauty of nature. Staring and ending the day with prayer. I cannot thank you enough for taking me in at a moment of crisis in my life...
Private retreat Jun 2023
There was a welcome & help when I arrived. With others having a silent retreat, there was a very real sense of God's presence & peace which enabled me to relax, rest & take unhurried time with God, enjoying being with Him & hearing what he had to say. The accommodation was great, comfortable & eery detail thought of a tribute to the work of the community.
Private retreat Jul 2023
The team were so flexible & adaptable in making it work for me & offering what I hadn't yet worked out I needed. The glorious weather & background of prayer helped too. I would have found my stay more helpful if I had understood it was OK to use the charger.
R5 May 2023
As ever the combination of daily prayers, friendship, good food, fresh air, natural beauty, an excellent library, a peaceful environment, has been very therapeutic, helped too by wonderful weather. I very much appreciated too the workshop on the Christian use of labyrinths - this was well presented & very helpful. I am very grateful to all the staff & volunteers at Sheldon for your great welcome & hospitality. Once again - it has been an inspiring & memorable week...
R5 May 2023
The Pig Pen, welcome and hospitality were as usual, perfect. We love the Pig Pen as one of us is having increasing problems with stairs. In addition, this time we especially appreciated the Labyrinth session with Clare and Charmaine in the art shed who was inspirational. Thank you so much for a wonderful week...
R5 May 2023
Richard led the retreat in a gentle, inspirational and encouraging way. The hospitality was wonderful - not having to do anything meant such a lot. Thank you!
Richard Carter retreat May 2023
The peace, the welcome, the food, the care, the surroundings were all wonderful as always. The Pound House room which I have not stayed in before was very comfortable and nicely appointed. You cared for my allergy problems perfectly again as always. The rooms in the Pound House are great but there are some disadvantages; the windows are very high, so you can only see the ends of the trees and the sky. The desk in font of the window makes it impossible to draw the curtains for short people like me and the chair at the desk is too low for it, making it difficult to use to write at. I think in the winter with low light levels, the rooms could feel rather depressing...
Richard Carter retreat May 2023
The retreat conductor was so good and through his talks I fleet a real deepening of my faith and spiritual life. Food service as care were as wonderful as always. Best retreat ever. I would have found my stay more enjoyable if I had been in the Long Barn. It is lighter and the shower is better, also the desk here in my room is too high to sit and write at...
Richard Carter retreat May 2023
The peace and healing of the place. God is here in the loving care & harmony. Chance to let go and see things with fresh eyes. Hard to improve - Covid restrictions new. A thought - have something at reception where if going out for a walk, ( out of grounds) can leave name , time & walk number & log back in just in case of problems...
Richard Carter retreat May 2023
My stay has been a lesson in the importance of true hospitality in showing others that we serve a generous God. Thank you for all that you shared with me and your loving care...
Richard Carter retreat May 2023
Richard Carter offered us a wealth of materials often form his own experience but also in art and poetry, to encourage and enrich our prayers and spirituality. His commitment to an openness and availability to God and to others was impressive. As always the hospitality of Sheldon was warm and helpful, with lovely meals and beautifully cared for surroundings. Prayer in the strong but understated Chapel was always good and helpful. We would have found the retreat more enjoyable if the programme had been like an induction into a programme of spirituality and more like a traditional led retreat. We were offered long sessions with many words, some of them involving full scale guided meditations. While the material offered - in words spoken and written handouts - will no doubt give great resources for the future, it would probably have been better to curtail the subject matter and give shorter address, with more time for individual meditation. It was all a bit too much. If the silence had continued until the final morning; 3 days is very short..
Richard Carter retreat May 2023
The atmosphere is wonderful, peaceful, efficient, friendly and Holy. The Pig Pen was a total joy, thank you all for the love poured into the very fabric. The retreat was life transforming for me. I am looking forward to my next visit. Thank you all so much...
Richard Carter retreat May 2023
Something of the wideness of God's mercy here... Proper freedom to re-connect with the one field that has the treasure in it. Thank you for your quiet generosity and background prayer. Just letting me be still, natural. So natural to be in solitude , but never severed from the body of which I am grateful to be a part. Thanks to your art shed I was able to complete some things. I will continue to remember you through prayer and hope to return...
Private retreat May 2023
Claire's Lodge was very peaceful and comfortable. I especially appreciated the use of the sanctuary, This really was a great blessing. Also being able to join morning and evening prayer a help. The walks were very clear and a joy to follow. Thank you for the care and comfort that us provided here. Very much appreciated...
Private retreat May 2023
As ever, everything has been so well thought out. The first time I have has a private retreat rather than followed a programme. The stocked larder option was perfect and it was perfect and it was great simply to have the space to be, walk, read, sleep & reflect. Thank you! I missed not being able to interact a bit socially ( but that is me), so I did miss the fact that the bar wasn't open - not so much for the wine! but I would have valued on little bit of social time. But that is the nature of a private retreat rather than a led programme...
Private retreat May 2023
The art shed is a wonderful new addition!!. I had a wonderful time. The wild flowers were amazing too- wild garlic, bluebells and beautiful ( so many) orchids!. I owuld have found my stay more enjoyable if there was no noise outside the Coop. There is a machine that runs for 30 seconds at a time then powers down only to restart 10 seconds later. During the day the noise is imperceptible with the noise of life but at night ( even with the windows shut) it is audible & stopped me from sleeping on the 3rd night when the tiredness had worn off. [Webeditor: thanks for flagging this up - we have identified the problem and the heating engineer will be repairing shortly] Apart form that I loved the Coop!! ...
Private retreat May 2023
I appreciated the space , the privacy , the confidentiality, the beauty & the surroundings. The ability to be led by God in a private retreat which wad such a blessing. The kindness & care of the housekeeping staff & particularly checking on me after the thunderstorm & resetting appliances without my needing to request this. The smile from the same team - 2 lovely ladies - thank you. Excellent directions for finding Sheldon indeed for the local walks. Thanks. Found the morning prayer quite formal & not my spirituality - too wordy & not enough space feeling rushed- but maybe this is the way things are done here & I know I had the freedom not to engage. Given that somewhere like Sheldon is not my natural home it is still a place I would consider returning to. Thank you for your ministry & may God bless you as you serve him and those you encounter.
Private retreat May 2023
Peaceful, comfortable, quiet , just what I needed. Really appreciated how well equipped the Hen Run was. Loved the Art shed and Labyrinth. I would have found my stay more useful if there were bigger bowls & glasses!!. A very minor thing but you do feel weird eating pasta/porridge out of a salad bowl..
Private retreat May 2023
The Pig Pen was brilliant - a little world or home all of it's own. A very well stocked larder & thought out kitchen & having stocked larder was great- the cooked meals were delicious and I don't have to buy anything else whilst here. The grounds are lovely to walk in & I did a number of the other walks from or near Sheldon. The chapel and daily services are prayerful and peaceful. All in all a little bit of heaven in Devon.
Private retreat May 2023
The peace and quiet. The people are so friendly and helpful. The grounds are beautiful , I love the way that the gardens are so natural and not manicured. It is so good t be able to watch the birds and rabbits as I sit quietly outside the pig pen. If I start saving today i should be able to come again next year.
Private retreat May 2023
I had space & permission to be myself & to look after spirituality & practicality. I loved the beauty of the surroundings, the freedom to come & go and the very sunny private patio. I was nervous about being silent/quiet but the relaxed & gracious set up at Sheldon made it feel very relaxed...
Private retreat May 2023
I had space to 'be' , in comfortable, safe, beautiful , relaxing, surroundings. I am thankful for amazing views to relax in, lovely paths and grounds to stroll in - well placed and plentiful benches for contemplation and rest. 1-1's were helpful, yet challenging leaving me with food for thought. I appreciated the maps of the grounds, the Art Shed to play in and the library too. I really enjoyed the Chapel times bringing some focus and pause in the day...
Private retreat May 2023
I find my stay at Sheldon enjoyable because of friendly & helpful teams, space, Art shed and food. I would have found my stay more enjoyable if the night lighting outside was a bit dimmer ( not really a deal breaker).
Private retreat May 2023
It was my first visit to Sheldon so not knowing what to expect. But I should not have worried because everyone was so kind, helpful and welcoming. No request was too much and their attention to detail was remarkable.
My ensuite bedroom was spacious, clean, comfortable with great views of the surrounding countryside. I spent several hours just sitting watching baby rabbits playing. Food was simple, well cooked and wholesome.
Surprisingly I really enjoyed the Art Shed with Charmaine our resident artist for that week. She was so encouraging and made each visit enjoyable and memorable. I even learnt to crochet and create beautiful works of art. It was so much fun.
I arrived sad, exhausted and broken due to recent family bereavement. Found rest, spiritual support and new friends. Thanks to Sheldon community staff and volunteers, I am finding my joy again.
R5 May 2023
I felt very looked after and welcome. The accommodation and catering are wonderful. Comfortable, warm and well equipped rooms with a wonderful view and nourishing delicious meals that catered kindly without fuss for my gluten & dairy free diet. I would have found my stay more enjoyable if the meals where everyone ate the same because they were gluten, dairy-free and vegetarian felt especially inclusive. I would love to encourage gluten & dairy free cake baking!. The cakes looked so delicious that were baled here and there was some sadness at not having a home made cake that I could enjoy ( but I was very grateful for he shop bought alternatives provided)
Margaret Silf retreat Apr 2023
Margaret Silf taught, led & challenged in a delightful way. Lots of stories very relevant, such great humour. Big thank you for ( in no particular order) hot water, ensuite, hot radiator, soft towels, comfy bed, lighting, view, colourful garden flowers everywhere, delicious food - such a balanced menu - proper coffee, warm welcome, thoughtfulness , beautiful cards in the shop. Great walks, peace, quiet, restfulness. Would find a rail of hooks on the wall and a towel rail for the hand towel, helpful...
Margaret Silf retreat Apr 2023
Sheldon is a very special place. My first time as a guest on a led retreat. Food was delicious and i felt loved and cared for. Thank you do much..
Margaret Silf retreat Apr 2023
Easy to book & pay, peaceful, time alone option to join in community prayer, comfortable ensuite room with smart TV & WIFI, delicious plentiful stocked larder, beautiful countryside for walking and suggested walking route, relaxing massage, encouraging & challenging 1-2-1 session, space ,peace, birdsong. Facilities - library, art shed, labyrinth, grounds, shop with gifts. I would have found my stay more enjoyable if the WIFI hadn't gone off in the pigpen during part of my stay walked in library & reception, we didn't have to wear face coverings in chapel & massage ( but I understand covid is still very much around). Thank you for your hospitality and a great stay!...
Private retreat Apr 2023
First time on a private retreat in Pig Pen. Found the Pig Pen a beautiful place to stay. Cosy & warm, comfy bed , excellent cooking facilities. Lovely meals provided with stocked larder. As always Sheldon is a wonderful place to recharge reconnect & 'just be'. Because I am terrible at reading small print, I did not discover food in freezer compartment until looking for ice for a drink. Having read the catering policy I see it is mentioned, would it be worth including also in food supplies section? A wonderful Easter break- thank you!...
Private retreat Apr 2023
To leave the distractions of general busy life behind for a few days. To have a place to completely unwind, get your breath, hear birdsong uninterrupted, to enjoy the nature around. To enjoy 'quiet time' multiplied. There is plenty of space to read, to listen, in comfort, lovely little hideaways. Good for the mind , body and spirit. I very much recommend it to anyone who seeks some quiet, is happy to let the mind slow down, to be open to some solitude and to be inspired by what's around you. It is like coming back to basics, eating well, sleeping better, enjoying the surroundings and being thankful for the opportunity to totally enjoy God's creation and company.!
Private retreat Apr 23
All expectations have been more than met and the standards are very high in all areas. Thank you, especially for the space to play the violin out of the way. On Saturday, 3 of us arrived for 8am prayers. Perhaps more than a single reference on page 3 of the folder to '' weekdays'' might be helpful. There was no problem - we lit the candles and led the office between us...
Private retreat Apr 2023
Sheldon is a place of recuperation & restoration. Thank you.
Private retreat Apr 2023
The grounds and facilities were wonderful. Pig Pen was comfortable and well equipped. We enjoyed the peace and tranquillity. My husband has difficulty getting around, but enjoyed listening to the birds. I enjoyed walking around the grounds. Watching the lambs with their mothers was amazing. Art shed well equipped. Helpful to spend quiet time in grounds and chapel - oasis of calm. Opportunity to rest , pray & refocus. Community made us feel welcome. My husband has never been on a retreat, but felt comfortable here - self catering & TV etc. Thank you. We have been more than happy with everything...
Private retreat Apr 2023
I was privileged to have attended the Margaret Silf retreat. She gave me a lot to think about. Sheldon is just so peaceful surrounded by all the beauty of nature be it the birds flowers landscape and somehow you and all the people at Sheldon have incorporated this feeling of beauty and tranquillity into the whole place. The chapel was truly lovely. and the prayers there so carefully chosen. So thank you. to you and all the sometimes behind the scenes volunteers.
Margaret Silf retreat Apr 2023
Great balance in timetable/programme allowed time to be together with others but also freedom to do '' own thing'' . Kind unobtrusive staff, wonderfully 'present' in all aspects of hospitality. Sensitive to & aware of nature of ministry. Healthy and delicious home made food was a treat!. Long Barn spacious, clean with balcony chairs desk & spectacular view!. Small practical point - arrival notes sent ahead could make need to bring own towels for R5 clearer. Thank you...
R5 Apr 2023
It was a very welcome rest. The team looked after us so well. The estate was beautiful. The food was absolutely delicious- so fresh. It's so quiet and peaceful here. Large room with chairs to sit in and a good view. There's very little that could be improved, but I did find the mattress saggy. ( I tried both in the room). I prefer a firmer mattress. Having said that, I slept well enough. Thanks you very much for my stay - for you hospitality , for all the effort you've put in - it's been a really refreshing week.
R5 Apr 2023
Walks in lovely bird song & surroundings & care from the Sheldon Community - lovely room with a view. Peaceful worship times. I would have found my stay at Sheldon more enjoyable if the lovely mealtimes weren't spent in silence. Living alone I really look forward to getting to know people. I'm quite new to the area so this was definitely not what I needed. As I'm not a retired or burnt out minister, this silent retreat wasn't for me. I didn't realise that most of Sheldon retreats are silent. I guess i should have checked. I enjoyed meeting & hearing Margaret, but again I would have liked more inter-action during the sessions.
Margaret Silf retreat Apr 2023
I found my stay at Sheldon enjoyable because of peace and space. The utilities and the larder well stocked and finally the welcome & helpfulness was lovely. I would have found my stay more enjoyable if I'd known that the windows did not need a key!...
Private retreat Mar 2023
The grounds/woods are one of the most important elements for me. Can wander, feel safe, enjoy the beauty. Creative leaflet to go with labyrinth is very helpful. Colouring in the room - didn't know I would enjoy this. Thank you for the library & for keeping it stocked I found ' liturgies for hope' very timely & moving. I much appreciate use of the sanctuary. But there is something strange & gritty going on with the carpet! Maybe a cleaning product?...
Private retreat Mar 2023
Plenty of space to and time to unwind and reflect in beautiful surroundings, with unintrusive but invaluable support from the community. I would have found my stay more enjoyable if perhaps an clearer guide to the ground rules of a silent retreat e.g. ; functional speech ( pass the marmalade, thank you etc) is ok, just no conversation, some ideas for what to do in the silence , what not to be embarrassed about doing ( e.g. reading, walking), perhaps also teach the BSL signs for ' thank you' and ' you're welcome'...
Brother Sam retreat Mar 2023
It took me out of my regular comfort zone and suggested possibilities for alternatives that I was able to explore.
Brother Sam retreat Mar 2023
Warm welcome as usual with so much thought given to your comfort. Very well organised place to stay, cleanliness is amazing and if you have covid anxiety every possible step taken to keep you safe. I was completely able to relax...
Brother Sam retreat Mar 2023
Every detail is carefully covered, explained and supported. The hospitality is excellent and the accommodation first rate, especially now there are ensuite rooms. It is good to see how well Sheldon has developed over the years, how beautiful the grounds are kept and how much they offer to so many people who come to stay. The community, staff and volunteer teams , under pinned by a wave of prayer, make this special place. I have no complaints.
Brother Sam retreat Mar 2023
The peace & quiet, comfort - excellent facilities, friendly staff, unobtrusive, yet there if I need them , lovely food!. I would have found my stay at Sheldon more helpful if; The loop system were better, i.e. the Long Barn and the Chapel. But thanks to having very good hearing aids...
Brother Sam retreat Mar 2023
Peaceful surroundings and the opportunity to switch off from active ministry for a few days. It offers time for reading and quiet reflection and to bathe in the beauty of God's creation. The larder facility enables time to rest and not worry about the provision of food etc. Many thanks...
Private retreat Mar 2023
There was a very warm welcome and plenty of ''space'' both in terms of time and physical space to either be with people or be on your own , even if you couldn't get outside of the weather. Also the option to go on long or short walks and having the labyrinth. I find the evening office with the community at 5pm a little early to join in. Maybe compline be something to explore?
R5 Mar 2023
The hospitality is unparalleled. The quiet sincere welcome is greatly appreciate. No pressure - just space to attend to ones own needs in a loving, prayerful context. The accommodation is just first rate and food delicious. I loved the art warm space & valued the artist in residence. Brilliant!. Nothing you could improve on. I cannot thank you enough for your understated deeply kind and creative space.
R5 Mar 2023
As always so welcoming and friendly. Lovely to be back especially after such a long time. Retreat time, some nice stories and interesting points...
Martyn Percy retreat Mar 2023
A place of safety & healing. Generous, loving hospitality. Challenging , affirming content. Thank you for your deep, wide, abundant ministry...
Martyn Percy retreat Mar 2023
As usual I was very comfortable and well cared for. It was very good that I was under no pressure. I didn't get as many walks as I would have liked because of the weather …
Private retreat Mar 2023
Stocked larder, had Sheldon home cooked pre-prep meals that I could easily reheat and nice desserts/cake +plenty of fruit +real coffee. Underfloor heating in the Pig-pen - I was wondering why my feet felt actually warm for a change then I realised.! Good to have a long overdue massage. Walks/scenery - except I had my head in the directions too much!. I would have found my stay more enjoyable if there was a cosy chapel/ prayer room. Thank you for making it a comfortable & welcome stay. It went too quickly.
Private retreat Mar 2023
My stay at Sheldon offered time away in the most peaceful surroundings to recharge, reflect and pray. Thank you for your kind welcome. The advice and care were hugely appreciated.
Private retreat Mar 2023
We have been able to switch off and relax, without responsibility. Everything we needed was provided in the lodge. We would have liked another shelf in the bathroom for sponge bags etc. hank you all for our stay with you...
Private retreat Mar 2023
A hug thank you for your warm welcome this week- the warm, comfortable accommodation, fresh flowers, home-baked cake, delicious meals, fantastic art facilities , helpful worship and wise counsel, lovely familiar walks and always a 'must' the labyrinth. Thanks too for the practical help and the loan of a hat having lost my own on the way here. The time has flown by, but it was just what I needed and I'm returning home refreshed and recharged...
Private retreat Mar 2023
Was told to do 3 things i's enjoy - That was excellent. Clare's lodge was perfect - comfortable, homely, the stocked larder was AMAZING!. Delicious, nutritious, & very varied. And no preparation needed. Sofa & bed comfy, a bath ( deep joy!) & such beautiful views. Beautiful walks all around the grounds and beyond, good library, wonderful labyrinth with glorious views in all directions, deer in the woods, so many birds. And the art room was wonderful even though I'm a complete novice. Sanctuary also a place of stillness & prayer.
Private retreat Feb 2023
Everything about Sheldon whispers in your ear ' you are loved'. From the warm comfortable rooms where no need is overlooked, the beautiful view from the windows, the wonderful home cooked food and the gentle, unobtrusive care of the community. Particularly enjoyed the art room and Sue's generosity & encouragement. Appreciated time just to be and was very grateful for my one.to.one. Thanks again Sheldon, I wish I could have stayed longer. I did find breakfasts difficult at first - too much noise for someone who needs quiet in the morning. I'm not suggesting any change at all it was only something I noticed and it did me good to be out of my comfort gone for a few days! I soon got used to it.!
R5 Feb 2023
A perfect combination of time alone with excellent company at mealtimes. Community & volunteers - a wonderful welcome and care throughout the retreat. Room was comfortable, everything I needed and beautiful view. Food was delicious, healthy and often local. Wider surroundings- fantastic winter sunshine was perfect for winter walks- the grounds and sheep were a delight and thank you for the helpful walking guides. Art shed a revelation - what a space, and Sue was a wonderful encourager. 1:1s - I has wondered how this would work, without usual time to develop a relationship with a spiritual guide but Anne's attentive listening and wisdom allowed me to dive straight in and pull treasure from all my thinking and praying. Bless you for the thin place which is Sheldon...
R5 Feb 2023
I found our stay at Sheldon enjoyable because I was pampered , comfortable, warm, relaxed , I loved the coffee bags. It would be good to have access to the library on the first day of the retreat...
R5 Feb 2023
I found my stay at Sheldon interesting because of the subject and how it was introduced to the group, the lovely surroundings, the kindness and care of the Sheldon team and the delicious food - great as always ...
Icons retreat Feb 2023
Sheldon provided room and space to breathe, to step back from everything. to find my own rhythm. There was space to rest, to wander and to dwell with God. Whilst discreet, I felt held and supported. Sheldon gave a place of safety and calm where the only person who knocked on the door and brought food rather than asking for food!. I would have loved to be able to stay longer, as I stopped I realised how very necessary it was , and how much more healing and time is needed. The only thing I would have liked in the accommodation was a bigger mug! Thank you!...
Private retreat Feb 2023
The food was good a, catered well for allergies and generous portions. Comfy bed with 2 pillows, beautiful grounds. Nice to know some of it was intentionally quiet. Lovely couple leading the workshop. It was a bit warm and airless at first but once I turned down the thermostat it was better. I was expecting a little more spiritual input, but that's not to say I didn't get anything out of it.
Icons retreat Feb 2023
I needed the space to reflect on my ministry and what God has in store for the future. The whole atmosphere was so welcoming that it spoke to me of God's love and provision, wrapping around me and inspiring me on the journey. The number of '' volunteer helpers' was humbling and I really appreciated the way that this made time for them to be with us and form a loving community around us, as well as the practical considerations. The ' no clergy shop talk ' rule was Godsend. It made it possible to appreciate each other as people. The surroundings were idyllic, beautiful countryside, a cosy, well stocked library, the art shed and shop.. everything open and available, portion sizes at meals not overwhelming but seconds and fruit/biscuits always available. It was so nice to spend time doing nothing. Thank you so much too for the availability of counselling which I found so helpful. I imagine there is a room in heaven which is just like Sheldon. Thank you so much for such a life giving experience and for all that everyone out in. Low-key worship with no pressure was so refreshing. Hard to find anything that would improve my stay, except perhaps the mattress was rather soft, just a minor pint, but overall my stay was fantastic, may thanks...
R5 Feb 2023
I don't usually offer feedback because I always find things satisfactory and I keep returning for more. This week was extraordinary. It won all the chocolate brownie points - but I'm not sure why. Perhaps the creative joy of the art shed contributed. Thank you...
R5 Feb 2023
It is strategically located away from the 'madding ground'. The environment, staff, and atmosphere are conducive to spiritual enrichment and indeed the environment enables one to lay aside burdens they bear when they come here. Sheldon feels like modern day ' cave of Adullam' - A place where those who are distressed , discouraged, disappointed & disillusioned in life/ministry can unburden & be restored. Excellent facilities, keep up the good work.
Private retreat Feb 2023
A warm welcoming space and good accommodation. It was good to have time of rest, reflection & prayer. Thank you for being here, for your care & for all you do...
Private retreat Feb 2023
I found my stay at Sheldon useful; It provided a safe space to reflect Helpful : nothing was too much trouble for Sheldon community. Provision of supportive elements such as massage therapy were easy steps to access. Daily prayer times, use of Art Room, library, extensive outdoors. Walking routes -well planned & easy to follow. Enjoyable : Very comfortable spacious ensuite bedroom. Superb meals, excellent provision for G.F. diet- so thoughtful. Just a delightful place to come & be. People treated as individuals & valued. Thank you team. It would have been helpful to be able to let some fresh air into room, but patio door could not open/ or partially open[webeditor : the is a hook on the outside to hold the door open].
New Year R5
Brilliant and valuable as ever. Noticed a few bits and figured you wouldn't unless you're told; standard lamp blown, only a few teaspoons, microwave smells like hot plastic, blind is hard to use, antibac surface cleaner missing, i couldn't find the Wi-Fi password, the tray is partially melted. Not complaints just feedback. { web editor : feedback noted and all changes have been made}.
Private retreat Jan 2023
Thank you so very much for your welcome and care. We have had fun, quality time together, reading, seeing deer, squirrels & birds, walking, space, peace, laughs, story telling, playing in the snow, crafts, cooking, sunrise, games, star gazing, climbing steps, scenery, night walking, seeing hedges and trees covered in frost and lovely accommodation.
Private retreat Jan 2023
It was so lovely to be here in the winter, having always visited in the summer before. Such beautiful views, with the low winter sun on the hills. The Hen Run was toasty warm - that fabulous underfloor heating and wonderfully insulated walls and roof meant that all my fears of freezing (and all those extra layers I'd brought, just in case) were put to one side. It has been a wonderful time of retreat, with helpful 1-to-1 time, and lots of space and time to be with God. What a gift the Art Shed is, too. Thank you to all the community and staff - your hospitality and welcome wonderful as always. Sheldon is like home from home.
Private retreat Dec 2022
Thank you all for another very enjoyable and helpful retreat. I think the time-keeping in the programme is good for me!. I look forward to my next visit to Sheldon...
Private retreat Dec 2022
It gave me space after a very stressful and worrying time. I felt cared for and was wonderfully well fed. The volunteers were excellent and very helpful. The retreat with Magdalen was interesting and I am enjoying on which it was based. There had been a smaller duvet. A 10.5 is extremely hot and uncomfortable. I eventually slept under the duvet cover and one of the blankets. Not very satisfactory but certainly more comfortable {web editor: there are lighter duvets available , just ask at reception} .
Magdalen retreat Dec 2022
The warm, friendly and helpful attitude of the community members & the volunteers, the comfortable & warm accommodation, and the excellent wholesome food; & the beautiful, well kept and peaceful surroundings in an unspoilt Devon valley; & the high quality of the care provided & the leaders and their programmes.
Magdalen Smith retreat Dec 2022
Rules about not discussing ministry, isolation - peace and quiet, the massage, the food, Access to the grounds, walking paths, benches for reflection. Eating alone- often in retreat centres there are group meals & an expectation to share - eating on my own has been a joy. The 1:1s to express my concerns & check on any progress before I left. I have felt so welcomed but also given the much needed space to wander, think and reflect. There is no pressure to ''join in '' that I have felt in other places. I will be recommending Sheldon to colleagues & others, as a place to rest and reflect, where you are supported to encounter God in whichever way is appropriate for you & for God.
Private retreat Nov 2022
As ever, it's been a peaceful, shelter and refuge, a place of restoration of the soul. The food has been utterly delicious, the team so kind and servant hearted. It's a place where I feel loved. I would have found my stay more enjoyable if the bed had been firmer! I realise it's hard to cater for all 'mattress tastes' but this was very soft & the bed very creaky!. { Web editor : bed board available if mattress is too soft} Otherwise absolutely wonderful. Thank you, thank you . What an amazing ministry you have...
R5 Nov 2022
A wonderful setting, even in bad weather. The sessions in the Art shed were an unexpected joy. Walking the labyrinth in the evening by the light of the full moon, gazing up at the stars and listening to the owl hooting was a wonderful moment. All needs were met, thank you very much.
R5 Nov 2022
Safe- plenty of covid precautions, space to wonder & to be & to see wildlife, fun crafting trying new things , sharing knowledge , relaxing into our work, place was clean , tidy helpful & caring staff and volunteers, simple - this retreat did not use too many words, some do. I shall be looking out for the next one of these! Thank you , thank you , thank God for you. Room light switch was not easy for me to work.
Crafting retreat Nov 2022
Excellent hospitality as always. Two great teachers with endless patience & passion for crafting. The opportunity to 'play', try new things out before committing to buy new equipment/ materials. The only thing I missed was sharing worship with the community. This is my first led retreat so not sure if this is usual or covid related but on 5R's always loved the feeling of 'joining' the community for a few days. Thank you for a great week!.
Crafting retreat Nov 2022
It was a haven of rest and peace away from the pressure of busy life where I could relax, the creative , learn new skills and make new friends. It has been lovely to be back here again, to be reminded of what I have been missing!. It would be lovely if there wasn't such a long gap between Ann's crafting retreats. Thank you so much for your generosity, hospitality and grace.
Crafting retreat Nov 2022
Apart from the trustee meeting, you made it physically manageable especially the wonderful Tamworth set up and wet room! Thank you. I expect you already know , but the wall clock is running slow, and with a continuous noise ( not just a tick). { Web editor : wall clock has been changed}...
Trustees meeting Nov 2022
Thank you so much for all the support and care in the background. I had a wonderful and deeply rejuvenating rest. Blessings.
Private retreat Nov 2022
Provision of the perfect balance of support and separation, comfort and simplicity , otherness & homeliness. Most of all peace stillness. Many thanks to all who make this place and ethos happen.
Private retreat Nov 2022
I learnt - crochet, knitting, patch work , star making. Reflective prayer time was great. Anne was such a patient teacher and inspirational teacher. All good up to Sheldon's usual high quality rooms clean and comfortable. Food yummy. Course leaders excellent reflections / prayer as well as practical skills. Only thing was air purifiers - I know they are necessary but they were intrusive and made the room cold. I love coming to Sheldon , it's been there for me in the good times , the bad times and the fun times. Thank you all so much for your precious ministry. Love the No clergy shop talk rule...
Crafting retreat Nov 2022
It delivered on every level; Body - comfortable, warm, light and pleasant surroundings, Mind - Good conversation , relaxed ,no pressure, time to think & ponder, Spirit - very helpful 1:1 with Anne. 8am & 5p, worship good. Art shed with Sue fed me in ways hard to put into words, but all good. Many thanks, it was a tonic & has given me things to work on...
R5 Nov 2022
The fading light brings nameless fear this year. The heating conundrum lurks on the threshold uninvited. And yet, here i am walking on paths strewn with golden hallelujahs of leaves. Blown along familiar territory, I find lichened twigs to collect: a reminder of pure air, mutual relationships, survival even flourishing strategies. And then, as usual, I came across those reliable residents - sheep : curious to find if I bring food today. Eye balling me up & down in their very comforting sheepishness; still reminding me of family dogs ready to stage the great escape given half a chance. Abiding here is such a pleasure: easily embraced and always a blessing. Thanks very much again...
R5 Oct 2022
Space to rest and retreat and ponder and pray in beautiful surroundings. Once again Sheldon has held out loving arms and embraced my battered and bruised spirit and allowed it to breathe in reviving air. Having space to talk was helpful. Thank you. The balance between the silence and talking worked for me. Thank you.
R5 Oct 2022
As always Sheldon so welcoming. It always feels like coming home. Comfortable accommodation, delicious food and caring community. I am still grieving the loss of my dear husband, but I knew coming here would lift my spirit. Bless the community for their compassion and hard work.
R5 Oct 2022
Everything you provided was just right for me ; flexibility, standard of accommodation, walks folder, very friendly and helpful staff , beautiful surroundings, very helpful 1:1 sessions. Two very small points about the perch the main door doesn't stay shut, the outer door mat holds water when it rains, even when everything else is dry.
Private retreat Oct 2022
Everything provided for a relaxing & restoring break. The well equipped art shed was such a blessing, as was the beautiful location, caring & attentive staff & delicious food. A haven of peace...
R5 Oct 2022
The place was tangible from the moment we arrived. There was quiet and space to listen to God and process what he said. I was comfortable in a lovely room with plentiful food, surrounded by beautiful scenery. The volunteers were friendly and welcoming. I would suggest bird food stations on the lawn opposite the pound house. Watching birds feed can be relaxing and therapeutic and help appreciate the diversity and beauty of creation.
R5 Oct 2022
The peace & calm & beauty. Places to walk easily into woodland to listen to birds. The art shed was wonderful especially with the positive guidance of the artist in residence - a real bonus. Good to share with other guests at meal times & not be in total silence. Warm & welcoming community members & volunteers. Comfortable room & fabulous & plenteous food! Thank you for a wonderful stay.
R5 Oct 2022
You have thought of everything guests would need to know! You have worked hard to ensure everyone's health & well being by your precautions & organisation of mealtimes. I have had a much needed rest.
R5 Oct 2022
Undemanding, friendly & beautiful place to be. Good showers,! Good food. Layout of tables in dining room worked well.
R5 Oct 2022
Community members/ volunteers were helpful & so welcoming. The attention to detail was excellent; from comfortable, spotlessly clean accommodation to delicious food to thoughtful & comprehensive covid precautions. As someone who hasn't done any art since school days, it was great to have the unobtrusive, practical support of the artist in residence. I much preferred the table arrangement at meal times instead of long tables; so much easier to talk in a small group of 4. I would have found my stay more helpful ; if there was a bit more (specific) information in the pack in our rooms , and of the gate to the copse had been easier to open and close, very difficult for a short person to reach over top of the gate & lift it slightly in order to work the bolt.
R5 Oct 2022
We were so well looked-after as always. Everything was very well organised and we felt very comfortable due to excellent arrangements to mitigate covid risks. The dining room procedures worked well & we liked how the tables were arranged. Food was delicious & well planned. Special thanks to the volunteers who worked so hard throughout our stay & coped in difficult circumstances when the numbers unexpectedly reduced. We were very happy in Berkshire Pig Pen. Bed seating very comfortable & warm room. Wet room convenient & helpful to have. We enjoyed using the art room which is a fantastic facility with an artist (or would-be artist) could possibly want in order to be creative. The sessions were quite productive. It was a great idea to ' experiment' with an artist - in-residence & her input was much appreciated. Thank you everyone for all your hospitality and care we are very grateful to have Sheldon to come to for refreshment & restoration.
R5 Oct 2022
Beautiful place, well set out , wonderful well planned grounds. Good food & a great space to be. Thank you. I fully appreciate the need for covid caution but personally on occasion I found the talk of covid out of kilter to society. I do understand though that others found it reassuring so am merely logging that...
R5 Oct 2022
Sheldon retreat centre was beautiful and had a lovely sense of peace and tranquility - as well as feeding us well! Location: amazing, such a nurturing and protective environment, wonderful ethos of ecumenical loving Christian living, excellent rooms, great food, amazing outdoor environment etc. Perfect location for an ordination retreat. Thank you for the care and love you put into making our pre-priesting retreat so special. You prayed, smiled, loved and provided wonderful food and space.
Exeter diocesan ordination retreat Sep 2022
Wonderful - more of a luxury break than a retreat. I felt truly spoilt & loved. The larder supply, & generous attention to detail was fantastic. I loved walking & praying in the surrounding area & returning to my sun deck each day. What a place of prayer and refreshment. I feel ready for the next chapter. Encouraged, inspired & refreshed.
Private retreat Sep 2022
Thank you for the care and love you put into making our pre-priesting retreat so special. You prayed, smiled, loved and provided wonderful food and space. Thank you deeply. I will be back!
Ordination retreat Sep 2022
The peace and quiet amongst beautiful countryside with only the sound of birds singing. I did not feel guilty doing nothing- just being. Delicious & plentiful homemade cooking from locally produced meat, vegetables & fruit from Sheldon garden. Thank you all to the team...
R5 Sep 2022
The beautiful countryside, the sense of peace and calm, the sound of nature, sense of community. Lovely welcome and an incredible massage which so helped me to get rid of so much tension that had built up in my body over the last few weeks. My aim was to be at peace, reflect & remember and I have done all those things in this wonderful place. it was perfect...
Private retreat Sep 2022
Comfortable room, very good food, beautiful grounds and space to relax and reflect. The pattern of morning prayer and afternoon quiet prayers was good. I especially liked the Eucharist and morning prayer. Good conversations and no ''shop talk''! Helpful staff and volunteers added to the sense of tranquillity. This was my 2nd visit to Sheldon. A very minor point - I found the WIFI seemed to drop out a lot during my stay...
R5 Sep 2022
An enjoyable and relaxing visit. The community members were extremely helpful and friendly. Any problems were dealt with immediately and efficiently. Meals excellent. Thank you. With my mobility problems it was quite a challenge to walk around the area. The main paths were fine but the 'gravel' area needed care with walking sticks and some of the woodland path were too steep. However I did manage to get to the labyrinth and down to the theatre using two sticks...
R5 Sep 2022
Everything is done for you, you are free to rest, relax, read, walk, watch TV- just be, in the presence of God, always there in the background and in the friendship and support of the community and the volunteers. I would have found my stay more enjoyable if there had been the 11am coffee break which used to be a feature of the R5. It encouraged us to get together briefly mid morning and I found it lovely having that break on my own...
R5 Sep 2022
Thank you so much for your kindness, grace and hospitality. We've enjoyed a tremendous time and have been very well cared for. Thank you for making our first visit to Sheldon amazing!
Family Holiday Week Aug 2022
It's been a time to sit, ponder, with no rushing of to the next place, collect thoughts, enjoy the nature around me. To be creative , read plenty, write, eat well. I have found more nooks & crannys, seats and pathways on the walks. Everything has been really good. Thank you for the flowers on the table. The French doors did not lock very well...
Private retreat Aug 2022
On arrival Sheldon gives you a big HUG!!. It is good to meet new people and see old friends. Everyone is accepted for who they are. We have good quality family time together, Sheldon is home from home. Perfection is too hard to improve on.
Family Holiday Week Aug 2022
Many thanks for the provision of a beautiful, safe place to disconnect and begin the process of making sense of the past few years. You have a truly stunning location and a significant ministry...
Private retreat Aug 2022
Thank you for another amazing week at Sheldon. I always learn so much about myself, others and the love of God when I'm here and this week has been no exception...
Family Holiday Week Aug 2022
Despite only being here for a short time, I felt more refreshed in every way than I thought possible. Helpful things included (but not restricted to): Kind and efficient booking & reception, well thought out accommodation with everything I needed, wonderful food- healthy, often local, delicious, chapel, labyrinth, paths &seats, ethos of prayer, care & respect.
Private retreat Aug 2022
I had time to think, I had time to breathe, I was wonderfully fed & found the space I needed.
R5 Aug 2022
I found my stay at Sheldon enjoyable because; fellowship over meals, superb food, very comfortable accommodation in lovely section, space in the programme to do own thing and helpful focused 1:1. I would have found my stay at Sheldon more helpful if; some discretion was allowed about talking shop - it would have been helpful to be able to share stories of encouragement. Morning prayer felt rushed, bar was open after dinner for drinks & discussion...
R5 Aug 2022
Excellent facilities & wonderful location, caring & generous community, space for reflection & recuperation, art shed & message, excellent food, being able to talk to others with 'no clergy shop talk' , one to one sessions. Thanks so much for a really good break- & for allowing me to stay a extra day!...
R5 Aug 2022
I found my stay useful, helpful & enjoyable because; having a room with a view makes a big difference for me, super food, a real servant-hearted spirit among the staff & volunteers. I would have found my stay more enjoyable if; there was more ventilation through the upstairs of the building when very hot/humid, there were lighter summer duvets, the bed was a little less creaky...
R5 Aug 2022
Thank you so much for this perfect little house- we've been totally happy and relaxed here. The location is wonderful of course and we couldn't believe how well our Pig Pen was designed, how generously equipped and stocked, and how well cleaned and maintained. Far nicer to be in than any hotel you care to mention! We look forward to visiting again.
Private retreat Aug 2022
We felt cared for by all the things the staff & volunteers did & also the way they were. There were activities to encourage community spirit, things were explained well to us. We had such a special week. Thank you so very much...
Family Holiday Week Aug 2022
My stay at Sheldon gave me the time to rest, study what might be helpful to do in the future at home. Even with Covid the time has been useful and I've been able to 'reset' a bit. Thank you for your quiet support, which I've really appreciated. My Roost was very comfortable with all I needed & more, including biscuits which I hadn't intended to eat while here. Thanks again...
Private retreat Jul 2022
I love this place. There are many reasons for this but one of them is walking the Sheldon Labyrinth, it has become an important part of my continuing spiritual journey. I feel at home when I arrive at Sheldon. There is an immediate sense of welcome and care. The provision of an excellent Art Studio is brilliant, and on this R5 retreat I was in there every day. But honestly it is worth going to Sheldon just for the food!. I find the beds in room 8 of the Long Barn are not very comfortable - mattresses too soft. Otherwise every fine. I hope to come back soon. It has become an important place for me. One other thought that it might be helpful for people to know. As someone who has been married a long time - one is used to going places with a partner, such that it can be difficult for people to imagine going anywhere on their own. Sheldon is a really good and safe place to be as a person on their own.
R5 Jul 2022
It was lovely to have so much free space for reflection and prayer. The food was lovely and it was nice to have meals with the other guests. The scenery is beautiful too! Would have been nice if the bar was open for a bit after supper
R5 Jul 2022
Beautiful setting & such friendly staff & food was lovely and sometimes unusual. I loved the Gloucester Pig Pen - everything perfect but one personal need. Being slightly disabled I would have appreciated a drop down grab rail for ease of getting off the toilet - I'm always afraid I may bring the sink off the wall. Not sure if this can be rectified because of the lovely laminated wall! I do hope so as I'd love to come back. Thank you for everything...
Broken Rites group Jul 2022
I found my stay enjoyable because of the warm, sensitive, gentle but almost invisible welcome & care for us during the weekend. Attention to all our needs, and even provided ice cream to eat during our film night. Excellent food with an emphasis on fresh produce. A calm relaxing atmosphere spaces to relax & country walks.
Broken Rites group Jul 2022
I thoroughly enjoyed my stay at Sheldon. The comfortable rooms, excellent food, caring staff and beautiful surroundings enabled me to relax and enjoy the company and support of fellow broken rites members. Thank you.
Broken Rites group Jul 2022
Thank you for such a healing and peaceful stay with wonderful food. We didn't sleep under the duvet at all so I have not stripped it. The toaster is little temperamental- it doesn't always click down or pop up! Thanks again...
Private retreat Jul 2022
Thank you for silence, paths around the fields, benches in quiet places, views , dark bedroom , scented plants in gardens, mature cheddar, beautiful home-cooked meals, fresh vegetables - lots of them, home-cooked bread, careful attention to recycling & minimal use of plastics, beautiful morning prayer, the library, fresh flowers on arrival, my wonderful accommodation with views across the hills. Thank you.
Private retreat Jul 2022
I felt held, welcome and safe from the moment I arrived. The welcoming touches in The Coop were beautiful. and I had everything I needed. The massage with Philippa and 1:1 with Sarah were the loving human contact I needed, and they really enabled the prayerful- journey I have been on. I'll be back!
Private retreat Jul 2022
The whole layout, facilities & surroundings just amazing. It's the peace you immediately feel on entering the building. A relaxed & God felt presence in the main building. Loved that we could leave the table & not do the cleaning up or dishes! Very rare for vicars/ministers wives not to help! Bedroom are just perfect. I would have found my stay more helpful if I had done my geography properly & not thought we were in Cornwall! Thank you all, for everything!
Broken Rites group Jul 2022
I found my stay at Sheldon enjoyable because of the quiet calm of the place and the staff. The ability to wander around the site and the feeling of safety in being the only group present. A printable map with directions ( not google earth) a better signpost would have been helpful...
Broken Rites group Jul 2022
It is one of the thin places, the surroundings are beautiful and peaceful, the food is great, the team are friendly, helpful and not intrusive. Thank you for an amazing few days. I feel very refreshed.
Clare Herbert retreat Jun 2022
The space and time and beauty of the place were just what I needed. Clare's leading was sensitive and insightful- stimulating and challenging and so full of wonderful resources. I came away with a sense of possibility of a future and a renewed connection with God. Particular thanks for kindness of understanding my needs when I struggled to sleep the first night... and the generosity of the offer of a Linhay Lodge for sleeping- such an enormous bonus to my stay to have the extra space and the view.
Clare Herbert retreat Jun 2022
A beautiful area, a warm welcome. Wonderful facilities, very good provision of food , private garden & chapel. I am greatly indebted to the Sheldon community. May God bless you all.
Private retreat Jun 2022
What a gift this space & your hospitality was has been - thank you! You've thought of everything that one might need. The food was delicious & thoughtfully provided. It has been a time of rest & restoration & recalibration.
Private retreat Jun 2022
It was lovely to be welcomed back as an old friend. ( from before the Long Barn was rebuilt!) and to find the same values of generous hospitality and welcome. The retreat attracted, being a bit left-field.
Private retreat Jun 2022
Comfortable & peaceful. A warm welcome from the start, community members so friendly & helpful you feel at home. The retreat material & leader was excellent - inspiring! Delicious food!. I really don't think it could have been better, only in that I would like to stay longer!
Steve Radley retreat Jun 2022
Sheldon has for me following my 2nd stay become a very special place. An oasis of peace & blessing. I had become burned out & very seriously depressed. At the end of that long journey I found Sheldon to be an 'easy' place to be. Hospitable, warm, caring place with all needs provided for. Staff available if needed but in a gentle quiet & not in your face or directive way. The routine is gentle & the grounds are balm for the soul. The owls, rabbits & bird song & sheep all make the retreat. The retreat was absolutely top notch. Sadly my last stay this year but I will be back next year I hope and continue to tell people about this special place. I cannot put into words how much it has helped my recovery from depression. Many thanks.
Steve Radley retreat Jun 2022
Delicious food, lovely touch of flowers in room, such a beautiful environment, all the furniture & windows in the Long Barn makes everything feel light & airy, friendly & helpful team. I would have found my stay more helpful if maybe a few leaflets of suggested trails to follow with distance... helpful when one is living by a timetable of meals & sessions. Also helpful for those who find the excellent map of the grounds difficult to follow on the ground.
Steve Radley retreat Jun 2022
The retreat leader was experienced in the theme, presented clearly, directed the range of exercises in photography with skill and encouragement and fulfilled my hopes of spiritual direction. The guest accommodation and provision of meals excelled in every way - the massage was wonderful.
Steve Radley retreat Jun 2022
Everything was laid & nothing too much trouble and I could relax completely in comfort and rest up.
Steve Radley retreat Jun 2022
I found my stay at Sheldon enjoyable because it was a very safe environment and you were free to do as you wished. I enjoyed the surroundings, birds, flowers etc, the company at meal times. The food was excellent very well presented & cooked with care. It would have been nice to have had a light near my bed when it was dark for getting out to go to the loo. Apart from that it was very enjoyable and I hope to return again before too long.
R5 Jun 2022
My stay at Sheldon has given me space for rest and reflection, the opportunity to do some sustained reading, and spiritual inspiration through worship, prayer, meditation, natural beauty and in other ways. As ever, your hospitality, welcome and friendship have been superb, and I am very grateful...
R5 Jun 2022
This is a perfect space, quiet, undisturbed, in beautiful surroundings. The Perch has everything I need, well-equipped + furnished +fresh flowers a nice extra touch! Thank you for your care in providing such an amazing place & space for retreat...
Private retreat May 2022
A perfect start to my sabbatical. I was a bit wary about spending so long in a retreat place on my own as I've only been with groups, but it was exactly what I needed. The most beautiful place where God clearly is I felt safe and loved and blessed being here. Wish I was staying longer. I hope to be back. Far beyond what I expected.
Private retreat May 2022
I needed space and time to allow me to mark the act of retirement and to begin to put myself together again after 21/2 years of a variety of serious stresses. You have quietly given me that. Thank you ...
Claire Robson retreat May 2022
It is a familiar and special, thin place. A place for quiet and stillness. The hospitality was outstanding. The talks, stimulating and thought-provoking even when the thoughts that were provoked were not directly related to the words spoken. I would have my stay more enjoyable if the afternoon talk was at a different time to community prayers- although I do understand why that may be the case ( Covid et al)...
Claire Robson retreat May 2022
It is a great place with great people who very carefully look after their guests. Keep doing what you do so well. Thank you for everything.
Private retreat May 2022
I found my stay enjoyable because of the excellent input by Claire, your wonderful Sheldon welcome, hospitality, the beauty of the countryside, the birds, the silence, the peace the time to rest and release, the excellent massage. So glad the silence continued until Friday. Thank you as always...
Claire Robson retreat May 2022
I needed space to be quiet without general chit chat. A place to be still, reflect, prepare. The pigpen accommodation was perfect - I brought my own food - So ate when I wanted, slept when I wanted and had the added bonus of Spiritual Direction on the 1st day and the best Swedish massage ever!! on the 2nd day- I feel rested and ready...
Private retreat May 2022
Very peaceful, comfortable, well equipped room, great instructions & guidance. Really appreciated decent sharp cooking knives. Toilet seat hinge was broken when I arrived. I decided to live with it. Thank you
Private retreat May 2022
The order of the day gave me time to sit in a beautiful space and process some difficult situations. Claire was brilliant at holding the space for us and Benedict’s rule has been very helpful.
Claire Robson retreat May 2022
A private retreat at Sheldon was just what I needed. The room was clean and welcoming and I felt peace descend as I arrived. Fresh flowers were a lovely addition and Jan's massage was a real highlight, restorative and helping me to sleep well. I found the nature so beautiful. I felt close to God in this prayerful place and lots of my worries and health issues seemed to fade into the background. Thank you to the team. May have been nice to have a garden chair in the private courtyard outside my hen run
Private retreat May 2022
Sheldon was a real haven for me to take time out to be still and reconnect with God and seek him for the future. It was a time of restoration. I really appreciated the time spent in my ministry appointments to talk through issues. I loved the freedom to be able to walk in the beautiful countryside surrounding Sheldon. Thank you to everyone at Sheldon for doing what you do to allow God space to work in peoples lives. The walk guides in the boot room were great.
R5 May 2022
Being able to lay down my titles and roles. I parked in the car park and be me, rather than what I do enabled me to take the time I needed to rest and be restored. The quiet prayerful atmosphere surrounded by the magnificence of God's creation have restored my soul. Thank you.
Private retreat Apr 2022
We did enjoy our stay with you. The quality of the food was exceptional as well as the standard of accommodation. I slept most of the first day. Did not realise how tired I was ! A wonderful place to recuperate and pray....
Bath & Wells retired clergy retreat Apr 2022
Thank you for your generous hospitality over the last two weeks. The space you have created for me has helped me feel safe and rediscover so much I had lost about my ministry. Thanks you all. Such space is created by much hidden work both practical and spiritual. Thanks for being willing to be part of that work.
Private retreat Apr 2022
Wonderful as usual. Peaceful and plenty of space to walk with God - rest in his presence.
Bath & Wells retired clergy retreat Apr 2022
The beautiful surroundings. It has been truly wonderful to hear the birdsong throughout the day. The accommodation at Mary's Lodge is superb. Thank you to everyone for your ministry here at Sheldon.
Private retreat Apr 2022
Provided space away from the pressure and busyness of the everyday to draw breath, to experience a time of fewer demands and to face some of the things within that lurk behind that comfort blanket. Thank you for making it a safe space, and one to which I hope to return. The covid precautions were all very reassuring, the hospitality was friendly without being intrusive, and the catering was all delicious- thank you. And the weather superb!...
R5 Apr 2022
The welcome was the same as ever, the other guests were fun and meticulous about the rule(s), the food and the weather were fantastic, the necessary restrictions were tolerable and the heating coped well with the ventilation. I would have found it useful if the 'back gate' at the far end of the Sheldon Copse was easier to open from the outside...
R5 Apr 2022
What can I say? In the timeless words of Arnold Schwarzenegger ( and with hope in my heart) I'll be back!! . Ten out of Ten.
R5 Apr 2022
The wonderful location, the lovely team, the closeness to nature and the freedom and space to ''be'' have given me the rest & thinking space that I needed. Huge thanks to Hillary and the team for holding such a considerably boundaried space. Thank you for a wonderful week.!
R5 Apr 2022
A big thank you to you and all the team for making my first visit to Sheldon such a special gift. I felt enveloped by love, prayer and grace - a nurturing and nourishing haven. Every blessing on your ministry in all its forms
Praying the Psalms retreat led by Megan Daffern Mar 2022
I found my stay at Sheldon enjoyable because it gave me the time and space to just 'be'. I love the peace and quiet among the woods & fields to enjoy GOD's beautiful creation - especially now with the spring flowers appearing, snowdrops, primroses & daffodils etc. Good food and friendly Christian people make the 5 das an ideal relaxing stay - especially the Tuesday massage!. Thank you to the team. You have all made my 85th birthday a very happy one!
R5 Mar 2022
It has all been absolutely brilliant - everything is done with such warmth, kindness and gentleness - so rare these days. Food outstanding as ever & fellow travellers on the road such varied interesting and delightful company. Bless you all! Thank you so much. I would have found my stay more enjoyable if ; for an old lady- name tag for everyone for 48 hours would have helped...
R5 Mar 2022
I was running on empty when I came. I now feel human again Thank you. Don't show people where everything is when they are struggling with a case that they can hardly lift across gravel. I retained nothing!
Private retreat Mar 2022
I wasn't sure whether I needed a holiday or a retreat, but I've had both, thanks to the quiet & welcoming hospitality I've received here, the beautiful surroundings, & the space & comfort to both do my own thing, and also enjoy the company of other similar souls. Thank you. I enjoyed an afternoon in the Art Shed ( a brilliant idea) doing some calligraphy and noticed that some of the inks were running low and some of the felt tips were a bit dry...
R5 Mar 2022
Always warm, courteous welcoming from reception staff & volunteers. Delicious food, excellent details to viral protection of air central. Don MacGregor's course was inspirational, very well presented & researched. He is a good communicator and along with Jane, his wife gave a very necessary course. Thank you for another wonderful retreat in your delightful, peaceful environment. Best wishes & love to all at Sheldon...
Don Macgregor retreat Mar 2022
I found my stay at Sheldon helpful & enjoyable because of friendships sometimes made, peaceful different and also because of the 5Rs. It's lovely. I love it.
R5 Mar 2022
Many thanks for a wonderfully refreshing and restorative time. Hope to be back again at some point in the future!
Private retreat Mar 2022
We would like to thank you all for your valuable and important ministry. We thank God for you in this place of peace and encounter with the living, loving Lord. We especially appreciate the 'Art Shed'. With our sincere thanks and prayers.
Private retreat Mar 2022
To be able to be here when I have a renewal source of energy at a time when things are so chaotic at home has been wonderful and indulgent! Always with my thanks...
Private retreat Mar 2022
What I value about the hospitality at Sheldon is the way that you manage to make us feel cared for, without intruding in anyway. I came needing space & that is what I got. It is a very fine balance & you all do it very well. Thank you.
Private retreat Mar 2022
It was so quiet!. I've been able to pray & read & write & think with hardly any interruption. Just wonderful. Thank you so much.
Private retreat Feb 2022
Thank you for a lovely stay. The lodge is wonderful, so warm and comfortable. All the food was delicious. God bless you all...
Private retreat Feb 2022
We found our stay useful/enjoyable/helpful because, custom Sheldon OS explorer map, the labyrinth, the sanctuary, the art shed, local walk sheets, WIFI, king size bed, freedom to self-cater, freedom to bring other half, utility room to dry raincoats/boots, amazing surroundings. I would have found my stay more useful if : There wasn't a bedside table on one side of the bed.
Private retreat Feb 2022
As ever, such warm and comfortable accommodation. Good food- the bar - lovely surroundings!. The retreat guide was so considerate and inclusive and got the tone just right for a group of weary clergy!. I was able to relax and re-charge and I am very grateful!. I would have found my say more helpful helpful if ,there were bigger water jug for meals - offer of extra coffee at breakfast perhaps. But considering the restriction of operating in a Covid - safe manner it was all exemplary.
Christopher Chapman retreat Jan 2022
Sheldon is familiar; reliably welcoming & comfortable. The lead retreat was very nourishing as ever. I really appreciated there was a place for me given my availability.
Christopher Chapman retreat Jan 2022
Chris Chapman excellent! Lots to draw on during and beyond the retreat. Great resources to re-read. Led with gentleness, humour & wisdom. I feel refreshed! Lovely food both stocked larder days & during the retreat with the group. Hen Run fabulous. Art room ...wow! I felt like a kid in a sweetshop! Really added to my retreat.
Christopher Chapman retreat Jan 2022
I hadn't realised it was nearly 5 years since I last visited Sheldon as it felt I hadn't been away. It was lovely to spend time visiting all the familiar haunts and to find some new treasures to explore. You know when you have had a good break and been well looked after when you don't want to leave! The retreat itself was excellent and just what I needed. Just the right amount of input and time to reflect and just be on our own. All the changes put in place due to Covid just worked and I really liked the addition of the hospitality tray in the bedrooms. It was so good not to have to think about where the next meal was coming from and the team of volunteers made us feel welcome and cared for - thank you. Sheldon is a very special place and I am always recommending it to friends I know in ministry. Thank you.
Christopher Chapman retreat Jan 2022
The peace and calm at Sheldon are very special and the accommodation warm and welcoming. I really love room 8 with the balcony and the beautiful views and I felt very at home and relaxed. I felt very secure with Covid measures even though one of the group tested positive. Christopher was gentle and thought provoking and I found the morning and evening prayers calming and supportive. I liked the non-demanding programme which gave me a good amount of time for walks. The food as ever was delicious and I loved the massage as I always seem to turn up to Sheldon with tight muscles across my neck. I also appreciated the bar for some silent companionship and a drink to go with supper. This has been a very helpful and desperately needed retreat and I have got a lot to reflect and pray on. As usual and despite Covid-19 Sheldon is like a spiritual and emotional hug. I did find my shower made the bathroom floor very wet although it did dry quickly. It was hard to find a place for the bathmat which didn't result in it being in a puddle, For a silent retreat I would like to suggest having some portable book holders available to use at the meal times which would make it easier to read and eat.
Christopher Chapman retreat Jan 2022
Just a note to say, thank you ever so much for a perfect private retreat. It really was ideal in every sense. I appreciated the warmth of welcome and cosiness of the pig pen, together with the valuable space to be left alone. I know you are very experienced in this kind of hospitality, but it really was wonderful and I very much look forward to returning.
Private retreat Jan 2022
Pig pen immensely cosy and warm. Lovely to have everything in one place. Grounds and Chapel is always open. Peace and quiet was more than I expected at this time when there is some work going on -thank you. It would help in terms of shopping, enroute to know which items I could expect to find in the kitchen cupboards when self- catering. Washing up would be easier if there was a cutlery drainer.
Private retreat Jan 2022
... very many thanks for everything this week. I really, REALLY didn't want to leave! It was just what I needed - some time away, to think and rest and start recovering. Huge thanks to all the team at Sheldon for making us feel so welcome and part of the family, and for looking after us so wonderfully and with such kindness. Everyone's been so lovely. I still feel I'm no closer to knowing what the right thing is to decide about [...] but I'm sure God has been working under the surface over the last few days and, as you said, a decision/way forward will evolve. Sheldon is a really special place, I'm so glad to have found you!
R5 January 2022
The peace & quiet, the amazing grounds with all the nook & crannies to be in, the walks which were very well laid out & described and all the facilities in the room, everything I needed. A small blanket for my knees, to save on heating would have made my stay more enjoyable...
Private retreat Jan 2022
It was everything that I needed. I valued the gentle space and caring environment. It would have been useful if there had been some tissues in the chapel. Otherwise all was excellent!...
R5 Jan 2022
It was just what I needed - time away to think, rest and start recovering after a very difficult month. It was a perfect place for this, with a really special atmosphere. Many thanks to all the team for making us all feel so welcome and part of the family and for looking after us with such wonderful kindness. The food was fabulous - also just what I needed ( as I've been struggling with food / exercise attitudes recently). Really lovely retreat centre - lovely rooms. Beautiful location - I definitely made the most of the site & surroundings area, as I love being out in the beautiful countryside, running & walking. It was perfect - thank you!.
R5 Jan 2022
You really do 'retreat' into calm, quiet and time to catch up properly with God, and also to be kind to yourself. I was originally in the Coop but the flush was on holiday in the bathroom! I am very grateful that the kind Sheldon people placed me in Mary's Lodge. It's good to experience a different place at Sheldon. I appreciated all the thoughtful touches. The good weather has been such a blessing and I ventured further up through the fields, to sit and watch the sheep, the mist in the morning over the valley. A chance to replenish the spirit mind and body. Thank you.
Private retreat Jan 2022
Just to say a huge thank-you to everyone who helped make my stay last week so uneventful (!) and refreshing. I knew I needed a break - while I was with you I enjoyed having the break, and now I'm back I realise both what a difference having it has made, and how much more I really needed it than I thought. There is something very special about a bunch of people who just get quietly on with helping others. God bless you all.
R5 Jan 2022
It is an excellent venue with peaceful, rural setting and range of buildings fitted out to a very high standard. The catering team was exceptionally personable and provided delicious food. The community worship at the start and end of the day, along with the meals, provided the perfect ' punctuation marks' to a time of individual reflection. The library is an especially valuable resource. Inevitably Covid regulations, put a significant brake on opportunities for exchange with others on retreat. While appreciating the importance of the Covid controls, I felt their imposition was a little excessive. For example, at no point in the pandemic has the person speaking/reading in our church services kept their masks on. Secondly, there was little opportunity given for members of the group to introduce themselves in a way which might of highlighted common interests with others. Thirdly, other members of the community were not introduced to us, creating a rather impersonal atmosphere. So it felt like we were very much external guests rather than being (temporarily) integrated into the community. Despite this, I am very grateful for the experience of the retreat which allowed me time to reflect on my life within a Christian 'atmosphere' - enhancing a process which will continue.
R5 Jan 2022
Loved the art shed - such a wonderful creative space. Enjoyed the labyrinth & woodland / field walks (thank you for the map). The staff serving us were amazing - generous, kind and humorous, & the food was excellent. The content of the retreat helped me to find a part of myself I had lost. Also loved having the flowers on my table in the dinning room, and in my room.
Christopher Chapman retreat Jan 2022
The accommodation was very high quality- warm, comfortable, well-equipped and quiet. Thank you for facilitating my stay at short-notice.
Private retreat Nov 2021
Thank you. It is the perfect place to unwind and to enjoy ‘ quiet time ‘extended. I understand that you want to let God be God, and this allowed me to just kick back and make the most of the peaceful surroundings. To come away from from the hustle & bustle of the world for a while is a real tonic. Your team are thoughtful in approach, with all that’s needed.. little touches such as a small vase of flowers on the table, the cleanliness, & general comfort. I made the most of beautiful mornings and evenings we had in between the stormy weather, there is plenty to see & walk to. I think I would have ventured further around the estate if I’d had company.. next time! I spent some time in the Art room.. had the whole place to myself! The medieval chapel was a favourite place of mine to just sit & ‘be’. So, thanks once again. I intend to book again when I can.
Private retreat Nov 2021
I want to say Thank you to the community of Martha and Mary at Sheldon. Over the past 40+ years this place and these people have been my 'safe space. Or maybe more true, as it says in Psalm 18 v 19...'a broad space.' This visit, at this stage of my exploration of the ministry I am called to has been special once again. Care, without intrusion, accommodation that made me feel genuinely special, a stocked larder which met all my needs (although if I'd eaten everything my motorbike suspension would have given up on the way home.) A rhythm of prayer and reflection helped me shape my day and the variety if spaces for reflection and stillness meant that I could use this special time well and encounter the one who sees and 'gets' me. Thank you. Blessings on the special space and community that God has crated through your costly commitment to your calling.
Private retreat Nov 2021
I found my stay at Sheldon, useful- time to be still and quiet + learn to be alone, something I am not good at, helpful - I arrived then fell ill (short, sharp, stomach bug). It was a comfortable room, & very pleasant for recuperation & recovery. The fridge & cupboard contents made life very easy. Also the food was great. Enjoyable- having a lovely picture window, with a view of the clear blue sky, good selection of local walks and an OS Map! It was a perfect place- thank you for making me feel welcome.
Private retreat Nov 2021
Beautiful countryside & well cared for walks/grounds. Care & attention to physical surroundings including accommodation. Skilful & prayerful massage- such a gift. I would have found my stay more useful if long handled matches in Chapel of Christ the Servant ( thanks for finding some) Even longer would be good... Another soul-restoring retreat - thank you all.
Private retreat Nov 2021
The beauty and tranquility of the surroundings and the magnificent views from the Lodge were everything I could have hoped for. The one-to-one sessions were rewarding and even with little other human contact I felt cared for and secure. It was reassuring to know that community life was carrying on all around and to feel the rhythms of both prayer and natural world. Definitely balm for the soul.
Private retreat Oct 2021
Thank you. Outstanding and very generous accommodation, gorgeous home cooking and beautiful surroundings I feel privileged to have been able to re-connect with myself, as much with God in this place.
Private retreat Oct 2021
Space to stop and be and change gear at the start of my sabbatical. Loved the grounds - places to sit/labyrinth/walks. Jan's massages! Peaceful, comfy, well equipped. These are not big things but, location of benches marked on map [Webeditor: good idea] and a slotted spoon [Webeditor: done] and maps in folder need topping up [Webeditor: done]
Private retreat Oct 2021
Thank you for the wonderful care and rest I received among you last week. I don't think I have slept so well ever as I did with you.
R5 Sep 2021
Thq 4 a lovely stay :-). Beautiful, peaceful place (apart from noisy other guests on 2 occasions!) Chance to unwind, blessed with lovely weather, very nice food (apart from nutty museli & bakewell tart - had said I had a nut allergy - but rice crispies supplied instead - thq. [Webeditor: that's a serious oversight on our part - apologies - we're normally very hot on dietary requirements].
Better if ... (1) other guests respected the need for silence for retreatants more [Webeditor: again, our apologies - we do our best to ensure that differing needs of guests are balanced and respected but didn't succeed here.] (2) the worship leader didn't wear a mask (you don't have to while leading) it would be easier to hear. Suggestions: little table beside outside bench. Holey spoon for serving veg.
Private retreat Oct 2021
The Community provided us excellent accommodation and the use of comprehensive kitchen facilities for our family and friends [on the occasion of our son's wedding taking place nearby]. It all worked extremely well for us and our guests warmed hugely to the hospitality they experienced. Everything was clean and in very good order. Given the wonderful location as well, we can't recommend it highly enough to others.
Self-catering extended family group Oct 2021
Thank you so much for your hospitality, and for providing this safe space for rest, refreshment, restoration and healing. My stay at Sheldon has been just what I needed. And I hope to come again-many times. I hope and pray that you will stay safe and well over winter, as covid cases rise again, and that you will be able to safely remain open as a place of refuge. Thanks again and God bless.
Private retreat Oct 2021
You all care for us quietly in the background. I found the 1:1 very helpful, enabling me to express my loss and begin to re-centre my daily walk with God. Prayers in the chapel were an opportunity to share quietly in the heartbeat of the community. I am no glad I came and experienced Sheldon in it's late summer/early Autumn setting.
Private retreat Sep 2021
I have been looking for suitable place to retreat for some time and now I have found it!. I had three requirements; somewhere comfortable, beautiful, where I would be left alone. I found all three in abundance. Thank you so much, especially for the space that you create that I was able to inhabit. I loved the attention to small details like the small arrangement of flowers on the table, that together made it an entirely stress free experience. I felt under no obligations or responsibilities, and as I ponder the next stage of ministry, this enabled me to be unburdened and confident in what I have to next. Thank you to everyone who made this time possible. It's a mark of a real community who make it look so effortless but are working hard to make it happen behind the scene. I will certainly pass on information to others who I know would benefit and I do hope you will be able to welcome me back again.
Private retreat Sep 2021
The Long Barn was the perfect place to have a family celebration for our silver wedding. We cannot overstate how delighted and impressed our families were with the quality of the building and also the beauty of the grounds and surrounding countryside.People loved the walks through the woods or around the fields. The children enjoyed playing on the grass while adults sat on the patio drinking or peeling veg.The rooms downstairs gave plenty of space for folk to mix without being on top of one another even when all 17 of us were in the same room. The larger bedrooms with extra air beds were great for the parents with small children. The well equipped kitchen made cooking easy and the dishwasher - 4min a load- made clearing up simple. It was a real blessing for us to be able to spend time together in such a tranquil and safe setting and we cannot emphasise enough what a wonderful time we had.Highly recommended for any family gathering.
Self-catering family group Aug 21
Dear Community, thank you for being here and enabling people like me to come and find some peace and restoration. These last 18 months have been extraordinary and I'm sure each of us have struggled in different ways. I know that what you do is often unseen so you are part if the unsung heroes of this nation.
Private retreat Aug 2020
I am writing to say thank you so much for all your kindness & support during my recent retreat at Sheldon. My time with you really helped & I was grateful for the extra space in the 'Sanctuary' Chapel. I felt very well looked after & particularly appreciated the two lovely people I was with on my meal table too!. Please can you pass on my thanks to the volunteer team too, who worked so hard to look after us all. I look forward to coming back. So grateful that Sheldon exists...
R5 Aug 2021
I found my stay at Sheldon enjoyable because of the care taken to prepare the rooms, the preparation and presentation of the food and the friendliness of the volunteers and staff. Arrangements in the marquee were excellent. The led sessions were stimulating and it was good to have the companionship of the other members of the course. (Thanks also for the simplified version of the instructions on how to take the corona virus test!) and for all the extra precautions you have taken to keep everyone safe). I would have found our stay at Sheldon more enjoyable if it had not been so hot! nothing yo could do about that - but it did make the wearing of masks more difficult. Thank you again to the staff and volunteers who worked on in the heat especially in the kitchen and serving. (Sorry to keep on about the food- but when you are on your own it does make such a difference not to have to think about it but just enjoy it when it 'appears' - congratulations especially on the delicious lamb!)
Private retreat Aug 2021
We were all in need of a good break - especially this year! It was lovely to be back in the quiet, caring environment - and to have that lovely sense of being looked after. As ever, my daughter's dietary requirements were looked after superbly, which helps us all to relax. The pig pen was the usual home from home. We just love Sheldon.! It was sad for families not be able to interact this year- and I think younger families will have missed the social/fun opportunities in the evenings - but we quite liked having evenings together in the pig pen just reading, playing games ... Clergy families don't get a lot of quality evenings in work times!!! [ Webeditor: we didn't run evening events in 2021 because of Covid restrictions ].Having said that - we all said that we really missed the quiz night and the talent show!! I would have found my stay at Sheldon more enjoyable if covid had never happened!! You did a fabulous job in really difficult circumstances. We felt for the volunteers endlessly walking up and down the marquee - but everything was done for our safety and to care for us- and your love and support is so appreciated. We hope we can return next year...
Family holiday week Aug 2021
Thank you so much for all that you have done to enable us to have such an enjoyable and restorative holiday. We know it takes a lot of hard work 'behind the scenes' to enable us to have such care-free time-and we are very grateful.
Family holiday week Aug 2021
Thank you for a wonderful stay. It was a blessing to me at a very challenging time. I love the Labyrinth and was delighted to discover St Francis by the swing moments after giving up on ever finding him!. I am fortified for my ministry ahead. With my thanks and prayers for your ministry to those who seek to model their lives after Christ the Servant.
Private retreat Aug 2021
It now seems a long time ago, but our 5 days with you stand out in our memories as a blissful oasis in the middle of months of sameness.You all looked after us most warmly and thoughtfully.Our room was very comfortable;the arrangements for meals worked beautifully, the food just right and the cautious socialising widened our enjoyment of Sheldon.We want to say a big Thank you to you and your fellow members of the team.I had in mind to write many weeks ago, but idly let the weeks roll by without doing it!Sorry!It has been a thought that you would be wondering whether you got this experimental arrangement right:you did - heroically!!
R5 July 2021
Just to say thank you - for as always your careful attention to all the details ensured that my week was exactly what I needed - safe, refreshing and rejuvenating and extremely well fed!! I hope the rest of the events over the summer go well and smoothly and with no covid hiccoughs. I think the marquee is great ... and will provide a wonderful space for the family holiday weeks and other events.
R5 July 2021
Time for quiet & reflection, Incredibly speedy response to requests! Lovely food with hospitality unimpaired by COVID restrictions, Such a kind, imaginative response to COVID considerations, Quiet consideration of guests needs with wonderful attention to detail, Spaces to sit in the sun and shade, Listening for and hearing from God. It has all been glorious, thank you!
Simon Parke retreat Jul 2021
Food as a vegetarian was absolutely lovely, retreat was superb led by Simon Parke, hospitality (despite COVID restrictions) excellent. All bases covered as enjoyment & helpfulness of staff & volunteers. Sheldon looked wonderful-well done! One very small thing.. if it ever gets as hot again maybe smallish fans in Pound house because windows small & it was difficult to sleep with heat at night - but it may never be in the 30+ again!! ...
Simon Parke retreat Jul 2021
Excellent retreat leader, Wonderful meals, Delightful garden, woods and fields, Exemplary attention to detail ,Reassuringly safe COVID protocols I would have found my stay more helpful if volunteers had more sensitivity to the fact that it was a silent retreat. Obviously there needs to be some talking if meals are being served at a servery, but it doesn't need to turn into a chat or whispered conversation at the meal table, or audible conversation at tea time when taking tea with retreatants. (Obviously the volunteers hard work is much appreciated!)...
Simon Parke retreat Jul 2021
Ultra organised & safe (almost felt too safe when we has to wear masks in 30 degree heat 2m+ away from each other but completely understand with your need to reassure/protect us all). I would have found my stay more enjoyable if there'd been ice lollies & air-conditioning! The landing outside Room 5 became incredibly hot (without any windows that opened, But grateful for he room with 2 aspects to get some breeze. Thank you for everything& being OPEN!...
Simon Parke retreat Jul 2021
I found my stay at Sheldon enjoyable because of the hospitality of time and space that has allowed me to just be, to be still, to be alone feeling the support of surrounding community, to pray, to walk, to think, to reflect, to read, to write, to listen to music, to do yoga & to look at the clouds on the hills..
Private retreat Jul 2021
The stocked larder was so appreciated. The food wonderful. The grounds are beautiful & I found the 1:1 session very beneficial. The massage was wonderful. The labyrinth was used 3 times. Thank you for all that you do. I would have found my stay at Sheldon more enjoyable if I could have joined in corporate prayer...
Private retreat Jul 2021
You were so kind & accommodating, & fitted me in for a massage. Thank you!...
Private retreat Jul 2021
I absolutely loved my 5 days retreat. It is such an oasis with beautiful grounds and walks (benches to sit on at just the right spots). I had a stocked larder with delicious homemade dishes. I also had a wonderfully relaxing massage. I very appreciated my 1:1 and time to reflect in the chapels. I used some of the maps for the different walks and had great fun finding my way along bridle paths - no 11 was quite a challenge but great fun despite ending up with nettle stings and very muddy boots! I returned home feeling greatly refreshed and shall recommend Sheldon to friends. PS I thought the website was incredibly helpful - so much attention to detail.
Private retreat Jul 2021
I wanted to thank you for the amazing resource you have been. I've had a very difficult year & a half with stress related injury & burnout- not uncommon for clergy I've discovered. Staying at Sheldon has been a huge help on my path to recovery. I'm not sure where my ministry will lead in the short term but know that time at Sheldon has helped me make some significant decisions including stepping back from active ministry until the discernment process becomes clearer. Can I also thank you, & the team @ Sheldon for your input to the CDM process, sensible voices clearly need to be heard!...
Private retreat Jul 2021
Thank you again to you and all the Sheldon Community -full time and volunteers. It takes work and care to pay attention to all the practical details that make people feel welcome and relaxed- and you certainly did that.
Christopher Chapman retreat Jun 2021
The quiet restful comfortable peaceful atmosphere and wonderful reflections by Christopher Chapman. Also all needs were met as usual despite COVID precautions & we felt very safe. Being silent helped though. I would have found my stay more enjoyable if proper coffee not coffee bags which taste peculiar were served.
Christopher Chapman retreat Jun 2021
I just wanted to write to say thank you very much for my Pig Pen room for my private retreat last week. It was perfect and exactly what I needed. It was my first visit to Sheldon and I loved it. I definitely want to come back at some point.!
Private retreat Jun 2021
Not having been to Sheldon for many years, it was lovely to be re-acquainted with it's peaceful pastoral surroundings. We greatly enjoyed our few days last week and would like to thank you all for providing such a wonderful environment.
It gave me the space I needed to sort out the Jigsaw pieces of my life and ministry and to see the fuller picture. You were all brilliant particularly how you dealt with covid! .
Christopher Chapman retreat Jun 2021
I sank into the deep calm, peace ,care and safety once again that Sheldon is. Loved Mary's Lodge, with it's outlook and easy access to the garden. Lardered food wonderful- thank you! All covid procedures clearly prescribed and helpful, including Prayers sign-up sheets. Thank you to the friendliness and helpfulness of all the staff. Thanks again !:) …
Private retreat Jun 2021
Gently but challenging sessions at 10am & 5pm - good times to allow long walks/reflection during day. Clear prepared materials. Hospitality-welcome, food, map-excellent as always. Art shed an incredible resource.
Christopher Chapman retreat Jun 2021
The retreat was expertly led and deeply relevant. The centre is very hospitable & I thoroughly enjoyed the stunning location, the delicious valued meals & the opportunity for massage, jacuzzi! The accommodation in the Long Barn very satisfactory & all the arrangements, house rules reassuring & safe. I shall certainly come again!. Two pointers for LB9, There is a light bulb to replace in one of the wall fittings, it's a little dark without it!. The mattress is not the most supportive I've slept on!! And developing ridges and lumps in the middle... Inspite of this I managed to sleep well because of all the other wonderful complementing qualities of a very special place. Thank you!
P.S. Need to emphasise again how good this retreat was & so apposite to my needs. Chris is very gifted & sensitive leader & spiritual guide. The retreat did '' exactly what it said on the tin''!.
Christopher Chapman retreat Jun 2021
To all our brothers + sisters at Sheldon, Thank you! for your warm hospitality and welcome, your kindness and your service have made our stay a real time of rest and refreshment. This photo was taken on a walk through your lovely grounds- a moment of God's glory! May his blessings continue to rest in this place! With love + thanks.
Lectio Visio - Steve Radley retreat Jun 2021
Like so many people, I arrived here exhausted and in need of peace, quiet and space in which to 're-group'' and think and pray without the pressure of a time table to be followed. I found all I needed and so much more- thank you!. It's been about 7 years since I was last here. I missed the ability to keep a bird feeder topped up [webeditor; bird feeder not provided due to squirrel problem] & watching the birds; a bear in the room [webeditor; bears will be made available post COVID ] and access to the little chapel next to the linhay [ webeditor; little chapel was available, apologies for any miscommunication] - all of which I found helpful in the past. I imagine some of this isn't available due to CV-19. Having said that, thank you for being here, for the Hub and for all you have done around CDM. You're all amazing!!!...
Private retreat Jun 2021
Beautiful peaceful surroundings and a sense of quiet care. Wonderful accommodation and lovely food provided. Hope to return! Thank you
Private retreat Jun 2021
MANY THANKS for your care and thoughtfulness with the larder stock. It was spot-on!. The shelled-peas took me back to my childhood. Much love and prayers to you ALL...
Private retreat Jun 2021
Thank you for helping to make my stay such a relaxing and comfortable one. Always a privilege to come. The TV/video has a bose connection. It needs to be switched on and off several times before it remains on! (with picture)… [ webeditor; TV now changed ].
Private retreat Jun 2021
Easy to book & arrange retreat-lots of options, own space in the Coop, accommodation clean, tidy, well equipped, delicious food in stocked larder, glad to join the community for prayers some morning /evenings, lovely grounds & good info on local walks & bike rides, useful drying room, safe space in 1 to 1 conversation- wisdom ,listening & encouragement, relaxing jacuzzi & massage, peaceful chapels, useful library. I would have found my stay more enjoyable if; there were more signposts in the ground for walks and on gates into Sheldon grounds, kitchen roll was provided [ webeditor; noted by housekeeping, kitchen roll to be provided], someone had shown me round the main areas on arrival. Thank you so much to the community for making Sheldon a haven, a place of rest, peace and beauty, a place to be found by God and soul-restored.
Private retreat 2021
The generous spaciousness of this Lodge always blown me away & speaks to me powerfully of the abundant love of God for me. Great to have this time to retreat between ministries. I love the new swing seat in the gravelly garden. This is now my favourite place at Sheldon, though outside the calm in Benedict's wood is only just pipped into 2nd place. Thank you to the Sheldon community for all that you've been for me & my family over the years. 5 linhay retreats, 2 hermitage stays 7& 9 family holidays! So a big thank you. A wasp ( or maybe 2) may have taken up residence inside the window by the table in David's Lodge... [webeditor; this has been investigated by the housekeeper].
Private retreat Jun 2021
Dear Staff at the Sheldon Centre, I wanted to say a huge THANK YOU for upgrading my parents on their recent stay to a Linhay Lodge. My mum had been quite low before their stay due to her arthritis that has been causing her a lot of pain, so much so they had nearly cancelled. Thank goodness they made it to Sheldon!!. It was just what they both needed- a peaceful, restful break...
Private retreat Jun 2021
I visited for the first time in May for the ‘Grace-filled wilderness retreat.’ As I emerge from a wilderness season, I wanted to write a belated thank you.It is such a powerful encouragement to know that as clergy dedicate themselves to the wellbeing of the people of God, there is a community of lay people dedicating yourselves to the wellbeing of the clergy. So inspiring and such a sign of the love and grace of God.Also very special to have time outdoors in beautiful and well maintained grounds and to eat healthy home cooked meals with plenty of vegetables when evening meetings can make ready meals and the chip shop a constant temptation!Thank you for your gentle and unobtrusive hospitality.
Grace-filled Wilderness retreat May 2021
When I get overwhelmed by parish ministry it's hard to remember to take pleasure in the little things. At Sheldon everything is a little thing in which I can take pleasure, relax and be restored. The kindness of the community, feeling safe from ministry and churchy triggers, caring for the environment, comfortable clean accommodation, beauty of nature, wonderful walks, sheep, birds, rabbits, pheasants, birdsong, hills, peace & quiet, rhythm of prayer. Thank you, I am returning refreshed and energised to where I'm called to be. I wouldn't change anything.
Private retreat May 2021
The stocking of the larder was extremely welcome- I loved the home cooked dishes, plentiful fruit+ fresh veg, the home made puds -just a real blessing. The atmosphere of gentle kindness +peace in solitude -restful+ healing. The beautiful grounds for wandering (and to wonderful labyrinth). The 1:1 sessions skilful, deep listening and excellence of accompaniment meant everything- I am so grateful it made all the difference turning a few days away in pleasant countryside into a healing and transforming week. Quiet prayerful daily worship, low key+ undemanding, very restful + inclusive. Perhaps in non-covid times I would have enjoyed a massage...
Private retreat May 2021
Thank you all for your welcome, for working out how we can be together at this difficult time, for your prayers, for being around and so helpful, for your care of this beautiful place, for all the delicious meals. P.S. Thank you for the wonderful walking routes with photographs and directions, I had two wonderful walks; and really are geographically challenged!...
R5 May 2021
The massage, library, atmosphere, beautiful view from window. Thank you for providing the extra bedding. The shower is excellent!. There has been a lot of rain which has involved staying in more and I made the decision to leave early as the chairs in my room were too uncomfortable to spend hours in. In normal circumstances I would have gone exploring but with things still closed, not really an option. I would also recommend an extra blanket in the room if needed. Thank you for the second duvet when I asked for it!...
Private retreat May 2021
Thank you for the wonderful way you and the team looked after me, when I was feeling vulnerable. I loved being able to go to the craft shed and I did some painting, gluing, clay modelling-all so very therapeutic. Magdalen's talks were also inspiring and comforting and spoke deep to the heart.
Grace-filled Wilderness retreat May 2021
I had a really good time during my stay in ''The Coop''. I was given the opportunity to start to bring some sort of structure back into my life & continue that at home. It was also great just to offload & by the time I left I knew why I needed the retreat so much. I hope I will find/ make time to attend Sheldon again, I have been recommending it to my colleagues. It filled that hole that needed filling...
Private retreat May 2021
Thank you for the care and hospitality that you offered during the ''Grace-filled Wilderness Retreat. I was struck by the attention to detail from flowers in the room & dinning table, to lateral flow tests ( with idiot proof instructions), to individual condiments, footprints on the floor and fabulous food. You did everything you could to make our stay safe and a place of welcome. Thank you too for the prayer, the love, the cooking, the cleaning and the waiting on tables, the guiding, the shepherding, the holding. I was a little apprehensive about coming somewhere 'new' on my annual silent retreat. I need not have been afraid. I have found it a thin and grace-filled place... and I cant wait to return...
Grace-filled Wilderness retreat May 2021
Very enjoyable -peaceful stay. Stocked larder-excellent a real treat, meals delicious. Pig Pen-great comfy bed so good sleep, wet room shower great, such lovely views in front of our room with the bench outside, nice touch with flowers, very useful one to one time, art room and library well stocked. Would have liked to have met everyone else. Midday service-needed to be better advertised, more detail on map- an update as quite difficult to follow. Would have been nice to have bar & coffee area open for private retreats. Would have liked to have comfier arm chairs in our room.
Private retreat May 2021
Thank you so much, once again, for your hospitality. Like the trees overleaf this place & it's people are stabilizing. I am particularly thankful for all the ways in which you've modelled the art of of the possible with COVID in mind. Everything has been beautifully managed. The innovation of remaining in silence to departure point I regard as a bonus. Thank you also for the truly delicious meals & for allowing the usual free-range wondering & the perennial enjoyment of the resident sheep. I hope you will source much encouragement from being open for lead retreats again...
Grace-filled Wilderness retreat May 2021
I want to express my real and sincere gratitude to the Sheldon staff for the way you looked after me during my recent stay. It was much needed rest and time for renewal. While I saw very little of the staff, but so valued morning prayer each day, it was a wonderfully refreshing time. The meals provided for me were excellent and I felt wonderfully cared for simply by being in and with the community. Thank you so much.
Private retreat May 2021
All the practical provisions were excellent and freeing, the stocked larder made meals easy and the prepared ones were good. The accommodation, the garden and the sanctuary are lovely. One small suggestion- a couple of plastic food-boxes for e.g. cheese and cake might reduce the use of cling film.
Private retreat April 2021
The silence and peace are beyond compare. Beautiful walks and the art hut was a balm for the soul. My favourite place was the sanctuary, what a beautiful place for meditation and prayer. The kitchen knives need to be sharpened (web editor: knives have now been sharpened). I had an amazing stay. Thank you. Exactly what I needed.
Private retreat April 2021
Dear Sheldon Team, Thank you so much for a wonderful stay! It really is the most restful and beautiful place we've been, we don't want to leave! Is just what we needed. Blessings for your community and see you soon we hope...
Private retreat April 2021
So many thanks for providing this place with all it's quiet beauty, and spiritual ambience! It has been a wonderful opportunity to refocus, rest and restore. Feel blessed to have been here. Thank you...
Private retreat April 2021
May I thank all the members of the Sheldon team for all your care and kindness in making my visit this past week, such a very enjoyable, restorative and spiritually refreshing time. As on previous visits I have experienced Sheldon as offering the embrace of a lovely culture of kindness, hospitality and acceptance. I greatly appreciated the opportunity to share in the morning worship. The stocked larder again worked for me, though I think if I had eaten all provided I would have put on at least a stone! I know that none of this provision, and especially the positive gentleness of Sheldon, happens by accident. Such a lot of committed hard work is involved for all of you. I hope that each of you, according to your own needs, will experience that touch of God's kindness that you share so effectively with all of the guests...
Private retreat April 2021
A big thank you to everyone involved in making my retreat last week such a relaxing and helpful time. I feel so blessed by spending the week at Sheldon and look forward to my next visit-whenever that may be!...
Private retreat April 2021
I'm just writing to thank you and to let you know that I had a wonderful time during my stay in the Gloucester Pig Pen last week. It completely surpassed my expectations. The whole experience from beginning to end was perfect. I spent most of my time walking and praying. The whole area was idyllic in the warm spring sunshine. I was telling my children I have never heard so many different varieties of bird song. A real treat for me as I live right in the centre of Bristol. It couldn't be more different. I also had the delight of coming across bluebells. deer, butterflies and even a tiny dormouse. I am so grateful to have had that peaceful time with the Lord. Unfortunately, I missed most of the prayers in the chapel but managed to join the Friday 5pm. A poem was read out called the St Paul and the bear and it was very poignant for me. Once again I'd like to thank you for all you do to keep such a wonderful ministry going...
Private retreat April 2021
Thank you so much for the provision of my lovely Linhay Lodge & all it's ''homeliness'' & facilities. My time apart has helped me to re-charge my physical & spiritual batteries. I never imagined from when I visited Sheldon in the late 1970's that I would return years later thanks to the vision & hard work of individuals to make it the centre it is today...
Private retreat Dec 2020
Words are insufficient to fully express my gratitude-but I'll try! I am deeply grateful to each one of you and to you as a team, for the thought, care effort and energy you invest in creating and tending such life-giving spaciousness. So many different aspects contribute in a myriad of interweaving ways. They include: the satisfying chunk of reassuringly solid wooden gates(and the whole tending of the land), the carefully cleaned lodge with all necessary equipment, the delightfully tasting and nutritious stocked larder( marrow chutney & lime cheesecake deserve special mention-though I didn't try them together), the hospitable library, the DVDs in the lodge- which turned out to be spot on , the straightforward efficiency of all administration. Once again, Sheldon demonstrates how attention to detail and planning can serve the greater good of creating hospitable space for encounter with the living God. For this and your commitment to it, I remain deeply grateful...
Private retreat Dec 2020
I cannot thank you enough for receiving me here at Sheldon during this very difficult time for everyone. It is proving enormously restorative, and it has meant everything to me to have a place of sanctity away where I can just be myself before God. The medieval chapel is particularly special, and I feel enormously privileged to be able to sit there alone in silence. I have read the book The Fat Pigeon Flies while here, and am amazed at what the community has achieved here during these past decades. It is an inspiring story of tenacity, risk-taking/ stepping out in faith, and holding fast to an enduring vision. I was particularly taken with the calligraphy poster on p.25 which has the verse from 1 Chronicles underneath the encouragement not to be 'frightened of the size of the task'. I have so appreciated this wonderful space, curated with such care and attention. Everything is provided, making it very easy just to relax into being alive...
Private retreat Dec 2020
Thank you for the delicious meals, I have been very well fed. Thankful for the art shed and all who keep it stocked. I go home with a bundle of hand crafted gifts. I have not stayed here during winter before, but the seasonal views from the Coop have been stunning & my accommodation always warm An excellent shower (although I have missed soaking in a bath) I would have found my stay at Sheldon more helpful if : hot water bottle had been available, not used to sleeping in a single bed, the kitchen cupboards are quite high for those of limited stature - could a footstool be provided?... [Webeditor: we ditched hot water bottles for safety reasons, just ask in advance for a double bed or a step stool]
Private retreat Dec 2020
Thank you all so much for the rest, retreat and refreshment you provided for me last week. Sheldon works it wonders yet again! I am really very grateful...
Private retreat Dec 2020
Thank you for allowing me to spend the week here, for the beautiful space, the delicious food & the incredible peace. The timing has been perfect. I have met wit Jesus, slept, watched films, sang & cried & journaled & even done a little art! I feel refreshed, refuelled & re-loved. May the Lord bless & multiply this place and all of you.
Private retreat Dec 2020
Dear Sheldon community, Thank you so much for your welcoming kindness and love this week~ it's been just what I needed... and special thanks to whoever keeps the Art Shed so well stocked. I've had such fun there!.
R5 Nov 2020
Thank you very much. It is a wonderful place. It was good to be here. God is here and I have experienced it. God bless you all.
Private retreat Nov 2020
I just wanted to say thank you for accommodating me at a relatively short notice this past week. Despite not feeling very well to begin with (and therefore not able to enjoy all your lovely food!) it was good to have been with you. Thank you, as ever, for the lovely space you have created. I particularly valued the opportunity to pray in both chapels and the 1:1 sessions I had. Thank you also for helping with my bags. May God continue to bless your ministry in these challenging days, and thank you for continuing to make it possible for clergy to get away at this time...
Private retreat Oct 2020
Thank you so much for showing your little bit of green heaven in the valley. We never want to leave! Everyone's kindness is tangible and deeply appreciated. As for the Art Shed-that to me is heaven too! It is such a warm, light & pleasant space, to be & create if the mood takes one! .You have created a truly wonderful place for folk to regain their sanity...
Private retreat Oct 2020
This has been a gem of a week. Thank you for all the thoughtfulness lavished upon us. It was just what I needed. This has been more than a 5R week for me- rather a 7S, slowing down(helped by labyrinth), sewing, surrender, simplicity, solitude, silence, socialising(little & light). Your combined loving touches this week have touched my soul too...
R5 Oct 2020
On top of the lovely peaceful atmosphere here at Sheldon, allowing us to experience the peace of God, the bedsit was amazing with absolutely everything we could possibly need. It was impeccably clean, warm and comfortable with a well equipped kitchen and lovely hot shower. The home cooked meals were delicious, there was plenty of fresh fruit and thoughtful extra touches such as yoghurt and Ambrosia custard were much appreciated!
Private retreat Oct 2020
I found my stay at Sheldon useful, helpful and enjoyable because it allows me space, freedom of choice and a change of pace. The room is comfortable, I can eat as I want and when I want and of course enjoy the grounds and the chapel. I was able to get a lot of good walking in but most importantly private does really mean private! No pressure at all. Better weather would have helped make my stay more enjoyable, but in fact the weather turned better than the forecast and I was able to walk everyday. The fridge has a habit of being rather noisy in the small hours of the morning! These are small niggles... I had a great and very healing time, and was even able to sit outside reading. Clean, sensible and not obstructive COVID rules, by the way!...
Private retreat Oct 2020
We just wanted to thank you all for such a perfect stay at Sheldon. The setting was just what we needed to recalibrate and refresh. The accommodation facilities were so carefully prepared and we felt as if we had stepped into a moment of God's grace. Please do thank all your staff for making our stay more than we expected just what we needed. We are deeply grateful and especially for the extended stay- just perfect. May Sheldon long continue- and we shall certainly be back.
Private retreat Oct 2020
It was good to be back at Sheldon, though I don't think I'd mentally prepared myself for the difference in spite of all the communications. Thank you for all you have done to put our safety at the centre of the hospitality.
Private retreat Oct 2020
Wonderful having massage- so grateful you've all done the work to enable this to restart. Incredibly restorative and centring. Have kept meaning to say this the last few trips- I love that it is always so clean here without those dreadful institutional stench of bleach and polish - I know a lot of more environmentally friendly options require more elbow grease as I choose them myself but I love the sense of kind calm order that comes from the rooms being spotless. Similarly I love the kitchens/kitchenettes being so well provided for especially valuable the last few times as I've packed such a hurry that I've forgotten something important- it's always been here or has been found for me/us- the gift of hospitality here with prayer thought and discretion is wonderful I also enjoyed the walks good descriptions...
Private retreat Oct 2020
I just wanted to say thank you for our retreats last week. A very blessed and special time. My husband enjoyed the photography retreat and felt he gained a lot from it. I was able to 'do my own thing' and return home refreshed and renewed. Thanks too for the stocked larder- a really brilliant idea of top quality food. Blessings to the Sheldon Team and their ministry.
Private retreat and Light of life photography retreat Oct 2020
Our thanks to you and all at the Centre for providing us with the opportunity. It was marvellous that you were able to give us the possibility of a retreat when you did, and we are grateful for the thought, organisation and dedicated work of staff and volunteers that went into making it safe and peaceful. The leadership of Steve Radley was a rare fusion of expertise and grace and, while I will also write directly to him, I would like you to know how affirming and encouraging I found the retreat. Steve’s feedback form asks how we learned about the retreat and my response can be summarised by saying that it found us; this itself is resonant with the ethos Steve communicated, that an image is a gift of God to be received. So thank you again for being the channel of this grace.
Light of Life photography retreat Oct 2020
We came back from Devon last week and just wanted to thank you for our stay at Sheldon. It was lovely to have a change of scene and to not have to think about food shopping or cooking! Thank you to you all for all the care you have taken to make everything safe and relaxed. It was a treat for us after so many months in one place.
Private retreat Sep 2020
Just a short message to say how lovely it was to escape from the daily routine for 3 nights and how grateful I am for all the effort that you and your helpers put in to give us both a real break with delicious meals and a very special temporary home in every way. We achieved our aims of silence, chat, healing and walking and not having to plan meals.
Private retreat Sep 2020
I really enjoyed being in a pig pen and have had a very restful week. It was lovely to get away after the last few months and feel safe with all the precautions you have put in place. Excellent attention to detail as always
Private retreat Sep 2020
We had a lovely peaceful stay and Sheldon has the most wonderful atmosphere. The accommodation was so comfortable and it was all the more uplifting for the friend I came with...
R5 Sep 2020
I just wanted to email and say how much I benefitted from being with you all at Sheldon. I have returned in a much better state of mind which seems to be lasting, So thank you all for your kind hospitality and helpful worship, letting us be with other people and share the beauty of your situation.
Private retreat Sep 2020
Thank you so much for preparing The Roost for our stay with such care, giving us confidence about safety and security in the pandemic. We found the facilities of The Roost just right for our 7 nights away and we enjoyed it all very much indeed. We were blessed with superb weather and the walks we had were so invigorating and relaxing.
Private retreat Sep 2020
I really enjoyed being in a pig pen and have had a very restful week. It was lovely to get away after the last few months and feel safe with all the precautions you have put in place. Excellent attention to detail as always.
Private retreat Sep 2020
We want to thank you, not only for your usual welcome and hospitality, but also for all the care and attention you took to making sure we felt very safe staying at Sheldon. We had a lovely restful time and felt much restored on our return (which lasted at least a week!)
R5 Sep 2020
I spent 6 prayerful days at Sheldon in September and wanted to write and say how precious it was for me. The solitude and silence of Sheldon, was a Godsend, brought me to a place of depth inside. I will be forever grateful for those precious few days at Sheldon which I will carry with me for a long time and long may the good work you do there continue...
Private retreat Sep 2020
None of us quite knew what it would be like with the Covid cloud over us. But the answer is - it was wonderful. We felt both welcome and safe; and when we feel safe, we adventure. Clear and reassuring safeguards were in place, but they were somehow never intrusive. As far as I'm aware, Covid created no anxiety among the retreatants during our days together; leaving us free for rest and reflection, challenge and growth. I warmly recommend Sheldon as a retreat venue this autumn and winter. You will be looked after in every way.
Simon Parke - leading Journey Home retreat September 2020
Thank you so much for such a lovely retreat this week. For all your care and attention to every single detail, it felt a very safe and comfortable atmosphere. It was my first time to Sheldon but will certainly come again. A big thank you to all your team for their kindness and care
Journey Home retreat September 2020
Special thanks to all at Sheldon for your warm welcome and generous hosptiality at the R5. I appreciated hugely all Sheldon offered and the personal touches were just lovely. You also did so well at keeping us safe from Covid.
August R5
It was a very good space and I was immensely appreciative to those who worked to make it so. I am aware that nothing ‘just’ happens to make the space available to others and I would be grateful if you could albeit very belatedly pass my thanks on to the Team
R5 Aug 2020
Thank you all the team very much for enabling our Lodge stay over the past week. We've had a good stay despite "below average" August weather. We've got wet quite a few time on our walks on Dartmoor! We like the room very much and hope it won't be too long before we can book to stay again. PS - my 6th time here!
Private retreat August
It was a very welcome break after the last few months. You look after everybody so well at Sheldon, in a multitude of different ways. Thank you for your care and hospitality. The anti Covid safety measures had obviously been very well thought through so I was happy from that point of view.
The food was delicious as always. The fresh fruit and veg are extra good.
August R5
First and foremost, thank you. I can't tell you what it meant to be able to spend the week at Sheldon - much needed breathing and work space. The way you have set everything up to cope with COVID-19 was excellent - everything calm and smooth, gently enforced and greatly contributed to the feeling of safety and control and therefore the air of relaxation. Personally, having the tables set up that way for meals was wonderful - less socialising was ideal for me! I know others would have liked more, but it was a relief not to have to engage too much in conversation.
August R5
We are writing to thank you and all members of the Sheldon Community for the days we spent with you last week. This was our first excursion since lockdown and having been shielding for some time it was important to us that we were somewhere we trusted to keep people safe. We were impressed by the great amount of thought that had been put into ensuring that this was indeed the case. Of course we missed the conviviality of eating at one table but you made the very best of a difficult situation and hopefully it will not be too long before things can return to normal. Despite this, the special atmosphere of Sheldon was maintained. We are grateful to the community members and volunteers who worked so hard to ensure our comfort and safety
R5 Aug 2020
Thank you for providing the time & space to eat, breathe & laugh in such a natural setting. May God bless your continuing work as a community.
R5 Aug 2020
We really enjoyed our stay. As expected you applied all the usual Sheldon attention to detail to the whole proceedings and managing the new normal and we felt very safe and cared for.
Volunteer working week August 2020
Thank you so much! Delicious food, very clean and comfortable, I have felt completely safe and cared for here. Thank you all. x.
Private retreat July 2020
Just wanted to touch base and update breifly - I look back to my time at Sheldon with great fondness, and particularly the support I received. My time with you was a lifesaver. [long update] Sorry to waffle on, but wanted to let you know you have been often in my thoughts and the experience from Sheldon has provided strength in thetoughest of moments, thank you.
Email Aug 2020 re private retreat autumn 2019
It provided some much needed breathing space from the challenges in parish ministry during the Covid-19 crisis.
Private retreat July 2020
Where do I start? I can't find enough superlatives to describe my Sheldon experience. I am so grateful for the time and space to rest and recover. Every advance communication by phone and email was kind, helpful and understanding. nothing was too much trouble. I wasn't in a good place as I was planning and booking and there was always kindness and understanding as I made decisions (and changed my kind!). When covid 19 foced a cancellation and then I was finally able to rebook again it was all made easy. Sheldon itself is such a beautiful serene place that feels so prayed in. My Pig Pen was wonderful, the stocked larder food was all delicious, nothing was too much trouble (the provision of a bed board helped a lot). I loved joining the community for morning prayer and spending time in the medival chapel and so appreciated the 1:1 time to help process all that I was dealing with. There is such a beautiful atmosphere of faith, love, peace, grace and kindness. I am overwhelmed with gratitude for my time at Sheldon - the space it provided enabled me to meet with God in a way that has been healing and nourishing. Thank you all so much. Would have been better if there ahd been a bit more/clearer info about walks. I'm always nervous of walking on my own but tried one of the walks in the file, missed one of the directions, got lost and went on a much longer walk than expected. After that I stayed closer to home but woul dhave appreciated a few more signs indicating where Sheldon's land began and ended and whic paths were open. [Webeditor - noted - will see what we can do]
Private retreat July 2020
Thank you so much! Delicious food, very clean and comfortable, I have felt completely safe and cared for here. Thank you all. x.
Private retreat July 2020
We were impressed by the thought and care that had obviously gone into the preparations. ... we want you to continue to be there for those who need you and value Sheldon as a place of peace and somewhere close to sanity in this mad world. We think that your emphasis on systems that are sustainable in the long run is both right and sensible. We do not know how long this pandemic will last but feel sure that many people will not be easy about social contact until there is an established and safe vaccine. Being guided by the principle that actions are governed by the needs of the most vulnerable could mean that social distancing, hygiene, etc. will continue longer at Sheldon than elsewhere.... It was great to be back and we look forward to our next visit.
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to share your new procedures and routines for Sheldon's guests. You have all put in an enormous amount of work to get it right and it showed.!We thought it was very well planned and that any prospective guests can have confidence that Sheldon is a safe place to physically be. The Community have done a great job in planning a safe way forward within the guidelines.
'CoronavirusTrial Run R5' with volunteer guests
Your wonderful attention to detail gave me space to do my own thing, provided wonderful meals, comfortable rooms and a haven of peace. Thank you.
R5 December 2019
The quiet, unobtrusive but at the same time thorough way that everything is arranged for the welcome of all guests. The kindness that pervades the place, towards everyone.
Retreat led by Andrew Nunn November 2019
It was well planned, we had the choice of attending workshops and worship, and it all felt very relaxed. The food was excellent, and having the bar open beforehand for a drink and a chat is lovely. It's also good to sit with different people each day, and to have staff, volunteers etc sitting with us. The layout of Sheldon is very compact and easily accessible. The Art Shed was well used (due to the inclement weather)! We stayed in the Berkshire Pig Pen which was very comfortable and warm. (We like the underfloor heating!) The grounds are beautiful, great that wellies are available and all the planned walks in the Boot Room are very helpful.
The worship is very quiet and peaceful and well led - just what we needed. We did not use the library - but it seemed to be stocked with some interesting books. The Eye of the Beholder - very much enjoyed this, very informative, excellent presenter and great to have the extra session. Gentle Touch - again very good session - well run. Massage was very relaxing, lovely to have a jacuzzi beforehand. Very pleased with the quality of the food. A good and varied menu was chosen for the week. All the staff and volunteers were very kind and helpful. Thank You!
12,000 mile service November 2019
I’d be grateful if you would please pass on to everyone involved in the provision of hospitality at Sheldon last week my appreciation of the warm welcome, the delicious food, the prayer in the Chapel, the efficient administration and the care generally offered by both the community and the volunteers. It was my first visit to Sheldon, and – as I said in my feedback form – I had decided by the end of Monday evening that I’d hope to be back!
Retreat led by Ian Mobsby October 2019
I’m struggling to find the words to describe my experience of Sheldon last week. It’s not just the warmth and generosity of your hospitality, your attention to detail, your awareness and care of the natural world or the cycles of time that you create through regular prayer and mealtimes…. Somehow it’s much more than all of that. I guess it can only be expressed in saying ‘being held in love’, which indeed was very lovely. This enabled me to find contentment whilst engaging with the loss and grief of my working world. So thank you.
R5 October 2019
It's now a week since our 12,000-mile Service - hardly seems possible as the days went blessedly slowly for us at Sheldon but have raced by as we plunged back into the fast-flowing river of ministry here. We thought of you all as we ate some excellent slow-roasted Sheldon lamb! We both so enjoyed our time and all the loving care we received. We realised - and have realised now - how tired we were when we arrived, and how the ban on shop talk made the mealtime gatherings much less demanding. The massage from Jan was amazing. I shall definitely take her advice to try and get one of these every 6 - 8 weeks although it will have to be a day off as I was terminally relaxed and unwilling to make any effort to do anything all afternoon ... We shall keep Sheldon in our prayers and for all of you in the constant hard work that you all do to make the community the place it is. In our tiredness we give thanks for the 'two large slices of heaven' which described the 12,000-mile days.
12,000-mile Service September 2019
You provided a wonderful space in which we could all (and all ages) find rest and fun. We particularly appreciated the generosity of spirit of all those helping - towards the children and the adults - nothing was too much trouble and the children's inability to sit still/eat all their meals was gracefully and brilliantly ignored. Thank you!
Family holiday week 2019
For a couple of years I have struggled to come to terms with the fact that spinal stenosis has rendered me increasingly disabled. After a career in the charity sector I have felt somewhat ashamed to feel somehow diminished as a person. I hoped that that the peace of Sheldon would give me the space to confront this issue in prayer. However, I had not expected just how much the whole Sheldon experience would affect me. You seem to have thought of so much to produce accommodation offering both safety and comfort, with such lovely food. However, even more important was the fact I realised that here my disability was less important that who I actually was. The wonderful volunteers helped unobtrusively when needed. In such an environment I could enjoy the company of the other participants where no-one said "what's wrong with you?" or gave me "that look" of rather pitying sympathy. I left with my dignity restored and profound gratitude that somewhere exists that can give such inner healing. Thank you so much.
R5 July 2019
Thank you so much for an excellent R5 – great to have the space and the warm friendly welcome and the brilliant food and the wonderful room and the good group to be with and the prayer times to share in and the beautiful grounds and surroundings. So pleased to be with you for the five days. And the library and the Long Barn bookshelves too: on my last full day I was reading Brother Roger of Taize, Spike Milligan and David Sheppard/Derek Worlock – certainly varied!
R5 July 2019
Peaceful and restful as always. I had the stocked larder option which was lovely food that all I had to do was warm through and add vegetables to have very tasty meals and healthy! I do like Wi-fi and a tv. Although it’s good to get away from these nice to have options and choices and limit them myself.
Private retreat July 2019
Our retreat was exactly what we needed - a peaceful, spiritual haven in beautiful countryside in a lovely part of the country. The facilities were excellent, the community members friendly and there when needed. Thank you
Private retreat July 2019
It was well worth the very long journey. Really helpful and special time on the R5. Warm but unfussy welcome. Really appreciated flowers in the room and the hospitality tray. Sharing meals I hadn’t had to think about was sheer joy (and bliss and rapture). Times spent with Sarah were encouraging and really helpful. Very thankful for those times. Loved times spent in both chapels: times in each alone and in the Mary and Martha for Morning Prayers (just right) and the Evening reflection and shared silence.As the days went on, really appreciated the no clergy shop talk rule. It really does protect us. You can think people are in a good place but a bit of a scratch of the surface reveals all sorts of insecurities and agendas. It also protects us against the kind of driven, competitiveness and boasting that can be part of us all. I was also very grateful for the ‘no ministering to each other’ rule. As someone who can pick up hurt and need very easily and with a pastoral heart that kicks in, it was a relief to be given permission not to respond - to just pray and gently walk away. There is a deep wisdom, focus and centredness at Sheldon that is a real gift. Thank you. Only problem… A comment and not a complaint that the floor in the shower got very wet and stayed so - right up to and including the toilet area. Think it needed a bit more of a slope or something to drain the water away? [Webeditor: we think this is a new problem and on the list to discuss with the architect - thanks for mentioning]
R5 July 2019
Useful/helpful/enjoyable because ...
- beautifully equipped and situated art room open all hours, with ideas for things to do if you lack inspiration
- lack of timetable, privacy of accommodation
- stocked larder was great
- reception was easy to access in case of any needs
- many spaces to walk outside even just on Sheldon land
- zero gravity recliner
- huge windows
- jacuzzi and massage
Better if ...
- sleeping space had been separate from living/eating space, but I knew this when I booked - ok in summer when you can sit out but would avoid in winter
- I had realised people might come through my back garden (in the coop), I assumed it was private [Webeditor: this surprises me - I'm wondering if it was one of the team watering the plant tubs?]
Thank you
Just in case you need more ideas (!) - how about ideas in art room for helping people make things with natural items found on walks, and either in boot room or a separate shed/summerhouse ideas for helping with nature connection
Private retreat (Coop Hen Run) July 2019
My stay in the coop was so comfortable and well equipped, lovely view from the garden. I arrived mentally and physically nearly broken and leaving mostly mended! Very many thanks to everyone here for all your ongoing healing and very hard work.
Private Retreat June 2019
Thanks to the team who have all been warm, gracious and cared for our various foible. Rooms and food all good. Really valued and appreciated the thatched-roof chapel. Liked the new drinks in room, including nicely designed tray/ drawer. In the bath/ wet room: shower water spreads farther than expected, so first time mat got rather wet! Observation - not complaint. The metal loo-brush holder gets wet every shower - may be worth having a plinth or water-proof 'boot' to prevent rapid rusting. [Webeditor: investigating this one - seems to be a new problem. Perhaps the floor has moved by a few mm. Have put a squeegee in there for now and see if we can resolve]
Seeing the Light in Life May 2019
The welcome, the warmth, the comfort, the nourishment in many ways, the feeling of 'being home.' A place that gladdens my spirit.
Seeing the Light in Life May 2019
The peace and beauty on site helped me slow down. Long walks on the Sheldon land helped me reconnect with God. Varied resources (chapels, community prayers, prayer labyrinth, retreat lectionary in room etc.) gave structure to my retreat. The massage and jaccuzi left me feeling completely relaxed and utterly cared for. The room was (mostly) comfortable, a good size, with everything I needed for my stay. Pleasant but discreet staff and volunteers - very helpful and gentle. Loved the Art Shed! A perfect space to do some creative bible journalling. With doors open: sublime! It would have helped if the bed had been slightly bigger. I found it quite hard to get comfy in a single. [Webeditor: all our singles are 3' wide. No problem to ask for a double if you like plenty of bed-space]. It would not put me off coming again though. I felt thoroughly rested and blessed by my time at Sheldon. I can't thank you enough for making this place what it is. May God bless you as you continue your ministry here.
Private Retreat May 2019
The opportunity for solitude, reading and praying time. Surroundings and Linhay lodge were conducive to relaxing and 'doing my own thing.' Staff were very helpful and supportive. Can't think of anything that was missing. Thank you.
Private Retreat May 2019
Having recently lost my husband, I wanted to be away from our home at Easter because of all my memories of Easters past. The surroundings were beautiful, the accommodation very comfortable and the people very kind. I would have found my stay more helpful if the restrictions on topics to talk about had been a bit less restrictive. I do understand the necessity for them in view of the fact that you predominantly care for clergy and their spouses, but I felt almost panic-stricken at first wondering how I could start a conversation with a stranger. Things improved as time went by but I think I transgressed once or twice! The person who introduced herself to me as the housekeeper was very kind in making it possible for me to have breakfast in my own time. I really appreciated that.
R5 April 2019
It was a good mix of worship, input and relaxation. Helpful to have the freedom to join in, or not, be alone or with others. At all times I felt "held."
12,000 Mile Service April 2019
I am rarely 'looked after' and this has been a truly relaxing and refreshing time - and as always - no pressure.
12,000 Mile Service April 2019
Being at Sheldon helped reconnect body, mind and spirit. The peace and beauty of the land, walking in the woods, praying in the labyrinth, using the art room, receiving a massage and a healthy stocked larder, all made for a very renewing and restful experience. Thank you. I feel like I learned to breathe again! The stocked larder was a fabulous way to let go of day-to-day worries and know that there would be a simple, healthy meal to enjoy at the end of the day. The care and attention put into giving adequate space and privacy (+ no clergy shop talk) combined with a deep sense of prayer and support, if needed, made it very easy to settle into a pattern of rest, prayer, walks, reading and pondering. From a busy city life to be awoken by birdsong and the lush green trees was a beautiful gift.
Private Retreat April 2019
The surroundings, the wonderful countryside and the wildlife, particularly the large selection of birds. It was good to feel safe, and to enjoy the peace and calmness. Will certainly return again.
Private Retreat April 2019
As always your hospitality was second to none. The new wet room in Berkshire Pig Pen was excellent. Thanks again for a wonderful week - our first Easter at Sheldon! We loved being here to share the Holy Fire and Easter Eve Communion. We would have found our stay more enjoyable if the lovely log seat up by the Labyrinth was still there. (It was good to sit and contemplate after walking the Labyrinth).[Webeditor: good thought - will pass it on]
Easter R5 April 2019
It provided a much-needed break with just the right amount of social interaction, greatly aided by the team. I particularly appreciated my room, the food, the labyrinth, chapel, watching the lambs. Everything at Sheldon speaks of God's love. It makes me feel like a real person again.
Easter R5 April 2019
Your community met my need at a crossroads in my life. Thank you. I think it is the rootedness of your community that helped especially. I was particularly grateful for your level access shower!
Private Retreat April 2019
The whole atmosphere of peacefulness, quiet and respect for the needs of one on a retreat. Caring and gentleness from those who work here. And, of course, the sheer joy of the beautiful environment. The very high standards of the accommodation. Thank you.
Private Retreat April 2019
The accommodation is clean, comfortable and spacious, the grounds are wonderful and well maintained and the staff unobtrusive, but helpful. You have given the opportunity in this glorious place, to have quiet and stillness amidst the beauty. Thank you. [It would have been helpful if] the Prayer Walk leaflet have been offered on arrival.
Private Retreat March 2019
Everything that was provided was so thoughtfully set out. The Pig Pen was immaculately clean, comfortable, warm and inviting. The grounds are so beautiful, watching the birds and being one with nature has been a healing and restoring experience. Thanking God for all.
Private Retreat March 2019
Angela Tilby was excellent - an unusual and interesting theme. You looked after us wonderfully well - warm, comfortable accommodation and good food (and plenty of it!) lots of free time appreciated, especially the long afternoons - time to read and walk. Silence appreciated. [It would have been helpful if] a water glass was provided in the bathrooms. [Webeditor: yes, we're currently rolling out water glasses for every bathroom and hospitality trays for every bedroom.]
Discerning the Angel March 2019
Someone from the Community was on standby as I arrived at Reception and helped by taking care of my heavy trolley case and showing me to my accommodation. My bed was wonderfully comfortable and the en suite bathroom had clearly been recently refurbished with brand new shower and fitments. In the upstairs chapel the standard print Night Prayer booklets are difficult to read, especially if the lights are dimmed for compline. One evening I was pleased to find a large print copy which was much easier. [Webeditor: sorry - we'll print some more large copy versions.]
Discerning the Angel March 2019
There was space within the programme for reflection and walking, so time to digest the workshop input. Wonderful hospitality and welcome thank you.
Enneagram Workshop March 2019
The environment was restful and relaxing. The course content was stimulating and gave a lot of food for thought. The art room - ohh the art room!! This was my favourite!! What a joy just to be able to play! The room was comfy and hospitable - the welcome was good. The rules were great to have in place (no clergy talk). I know drinks were readily available but I would really have liked some hospitality in the room - a kettle and a couple of mugs for instance. [Webeditor: yes, we're just in the process of rolling this out and putting hospitality trays in every room.] The course was very didactic. I would have appreciated a bit more variety in the delivery. Thank you.
Enneagram Workshop March 2019
[This week] offered a safe space just to be. No obligations - no 'I should' 'I ought to' which in turn I could tell myself. No shop talk - again which I could insist on in my own 'chattering mind.' Wonderful generous care and service by the community and volunteers ... You preserve a beautiful space with authenticity and love.
12,000 Mile Service February 2019
You put so much thought and care into everything. Your hospitality is superb and the accommodation is all extremely comfortable and of very high quality. Whatever I needed was there, already thought of before I knew I needed it! There was just the right balance between space and activity and it was all very permission-giving, nothing obligatory, everything completely optional.
12,000 Mile Service February 2019
Relaxed atmosphere - appreciated the spirit of a silent retreat without the legalism of one. Tasty home cooked food - even enjoyed things I thought I didn't like! The setting - I felt so connected and loved by God through creation. Walk sheets were so helpful. All the extra bits were great too e.g. spare towels, hair dryer etc. Loved Margaret Whipp - made us feel at ease so quickly. The range of spaces to encourage encounter is great - the outdoors, labyrinth, art shed, chapels, library, loads of comfy corners inside and out.
Finding your Inner Ignatius February 2019
Good company, good food, good weather, golden silence and surely God's goodness and mercy following me.
Finding your Inner Ignatius February 2019
Friendly, welcoming community. We especially appreciated the Art Shed, well thought out, something for everyone. Thank you. Plus the food was very good and we enjoyed the opportunity to just be.
R5 February 2019
It was peaceful, restful and relaxing. I managed to slow down, to sleep again and to feel connected. It helped me to get my life back into perspective so I could look forward again. And the food was wonderful.
R5 February 2019
This was just what I need - peace, quiet, beautiful surroundings. I wish I could have stayed longer. Thank you for making this possible.
Private Retreat February 2019
Thank you for creating a very special place, where we have been able to relax and meet with the Lord. The Roost has been so well equipped, warm and such a blessing - everything "ministers". We are refreshed and recharged.
Private Retreat February 2019
It was complete relaxation with congenial company, rural surroundings for exploring on foot, and varied and interesting meals and snacks. One could be active or idle, it was a pleasure to admire the view and watch the wild birds. Grateful thanks to all the Sheldon team. It was a joy to start the new year with a communion at 8.30am.
New Year Time Out January 2019
I have had a wonderful few days, doing nothing, laughing a lot, eating well, visiting Exeter, lovely people, all staff lovely. I feel I've been looked after. Thank you so much.
New Year Time Out January 2019
The retreat was led so well, with such sensitivity, humour and patience. The meals were so delicious and the possibility of walks fantastic, even when dodging the showers. The chapel is a very special place for prayer - and the little medieval chapel a haven of quiet and depth of feeling. The daily Eucharist for our retreat was at the heart of it all, thank you!
John Pritchard Retreat November 2018
Rooms were well equipped and private. Meals were 'homely' and well prepared. Staff, particularly in the kitchen, were excellent and the chef team under Tim were exceptional with their willingness to accommodate special diets. Whole facility clean to a high standard.
John Pritchard Retreat November 2018
Time and space to 'be'. Time to reconnect with God and recharge spiritual batteries. Lovely people - guests, community and volunteers. Perfect mix for me of social time and time alone. Beautiful facilities and surroundings (and food!)
12,000 Mile Service November 2018
It gave me time to consider who I am. The 'one to one' sessions in particular were very helpful. The jacuzzi and massage were very enjoyable and relaxing. The workshop on 'focus' was very helpful - something I will use a lot.
12,000 Mile Service November 2018
I write to thank you for your wonderful hospitality and holding when I came to Sheldon on my private retreat. Although I only saw you in passing it was just great to know that I wasn't simply in a quiet venue like a privately booked holiday cottage, but that I was part of your community and was being held in the love and prayer that goes with that.
Private Retreat November 2018
Thank you so much for your powerful ministry and selfless love. It's enough to trigger God's healing process in those of us who come to Sheldon sometimes battered and bruised by "friendly fire" in the cause of our Christian service. The Lord bless you all.
Private Retreat November 2018
The peacefulness of this place enabled me to be free from cares. Good food. Prayers and chapels available. Great company of community and visitors. Thank you.
R5 November 2018
It was just what I needed - space just to be with no demands placed upon me - to read, sleep, walk, pray. I can go back feeling that the next months are manageable rather than insurmountable, and I have had the time and space to begin to work out how my pattern of life might become more sustainable. It will always be a work in progress!
R5 November 2018
I had the freedom to be, to play, to explore, to do things that I enjoy. I like the space at Sheldon. I like the labyrinth.
Private Retreat October 2018
It gave me the space I needed to seek out God's plan for my ministry through prayer, private reflection, reading and being in nature. The rule of 'no clergy shop talk' meant I didn't have to worry about having to keep explaining who I am and my journey. Although, having the opportunity to verbalise my thoughts and my journey with a team member enabled me to clarify where I am. It has been a wonderful experience.
12,000 Mile Service October 2018
The 1:1 sessions helped me deal with my problems and the underlying attitudes I carry which needed to be healed (that continues). The care and loving kindness of the team and volunteers is incredibly refreshing and restorative. Everything was excellent. I am very grateful to the team, community, alongsiders and volunteers.
12,000 Mile Service October 2018
Such a beautiful, peaceful setting (and wonderful weather!), lovely grounds, excellent information, great selection of walks, OS map, very comfortable and reasonable accommodation, the Art Shed - fantastic materials brilliantly organised. Just what I needed right now.
Private Retreat October 2018
Sheldon has a magical peace that is quite unique. The time and space to just be left alone to pray or recharge the batteries is made perfect by the caring and dedicated staff here. Walking the labyrinth is a wonderful uplifting experience that will draw us back to Sheldon many times in the future.
Private Retreat September 2018
I enjoyed the balance between led content and restful silence. Margaret's insights were inspirational and it was lovely to wander around the woods and countryside reflecting on wheat had arisen for me. I love the morning and evening worship in the chapel with its thoughtful liturgy and gentle pace. I also enjoyed the food and was grateful for the cheerful and careful attention to my special diet. Everything was perfect - thank you.
Margaret Silf Retreat August 2018
Warm welcome, clear information, good accommodation - actually superb! Quiet, reflective atmosphere with lots of spaces and space. Food excellent, catering for all needs. Coffee and tea making facilities and biscuits etc. easily accessible. An excellent place to rest and restore.
Margaret Silf Retreat August 2018
Lovely people, great practical arrangements, really helpful timings and clear plans e.g. for meals, such care and attention to detail, beautiful setting.
Family Holiday Week August 2018
Thank you Sheldon for a brilliant family holiday week. This is our eighth year and we still love it. So much wonderful space to explore and unwind in. Great food and staff. It's been a family fun packed week. See you next year!
Family Holiday Week August 2018
As always, I was given space, lovely, clean accommodation (I loved my Hen Run!) with everything I could possibly need, a warm welcome. I have so enjoyed my stay. Sheldon is such an oasis of peace - much needed! Thank you all.
Private Retreat August 2018
Thank you for a lovely stay this week. Meals great - and couldn't have had better weather. Thank you for all you do.
R5 July 2018
This has been a wonderful and invaluable gift from God. Much needed! Everything about this place was conducive to physical and spiritual rest. Jan's massage was fab! Thank you so much to the Sheldon Community for making this such a special place.
Private Retreat July 2018
I found my stay at Sheldon helpful because of the space to be in solitude and silence with God and no demands on expectations. It was a time for me to let go and let God, to be embraced in the depths of his love and to have my soul restored. I could just be and be present to God. I find the labyrinth very helpful and also the peace of the Linhay garden. Also really helpful to be somewhere where my special diet could be catered for rather than having to be self catering and to have to think!
Private Retreat June 2018
The sessions were excellent - a good balance of scholarship, reflection and challenge with really useful questions and prayer exercises. The best I have experienced for a long time. It will very much enrich my ministry and lead me on. The whole place/ people was/were very restoring and it was very comfortable with excellent food. Thank you so much.
Another Christ Retreat June 2018
It was perfect (the weather helped) the peace and beauty of the place, the care of staff and how well cared for the rooms, buildings, gardens and whole site were.
Another Christ Retreat June 2018
The beauty of the countryside was wonderful. The room was very comfortable and the food lovely and plentiful. Everything was done to make my stay as easy as possible, so without being directed, it was easy to hear from God.
R5 June 2018
My stay at Sheldon gave me space and time to reflect, rest and relax before I move on to a new appointment. Many thanks for another wonderful retreat. I very much appreciate all that Sheldon has to offer. God bless you all in your continuing ministry.
R5 June 2018
Thank you for all that you offer here at Sheldon - the warm welcome and good hospitality, for thinking of our needs and for the simplicity and gentleness which pervades. Thank you for leaving me alone to do what I came to do, to have rest and quiet with God.
Private Retreat June 2018
We have particularly loved ... the umbrella on arrival - in a huge downpour; the beautiful grounds; the attention to detail; the art room - AMAZING; the peace; the feeling of love; the bird song; the wealth of books and use of the library; gallons of hot water!; cute sheep; freedom; rest; the flowers on the table; the gentle presence of hospitality and service; ecological and fairtrade awareness. We LOVE Sheldon!!
Private Retreat May 2018
We have had a truly amazing retreat. It's been so lovely to return after 4 years (too long!) The place has such a peaceful feel! We really loved the art room - what a delight. A place to try out new things or return to old loves. A place for creative expression. A real gift. We hope to return very soon!! Thank you so much for your gentle and prayerful companionship on our retreat.
Private Retreat May 2018
There was no pressure, freedom to just be.
R5 May 2018
Stripped of my role, where I come from, my denomination, I discovered other aspects of myself, and subsequently other people in more depth than I anticipated. Having my own room, my name on the door, the flowers on the table all made me feel valued and welcomed. I've been fed spiritually and physically.
Seeing the Light in Life May 2018
Excellent welcome, food, grounds, peace and the addition of good weather. I couldn't have asked for more, and a good photography retreat.
Seeing the Light in Life May 2018
I felt held in the love of God expressed through creation and the community (and volunteers). I was enabled to be still, connect with some deep personal history and encounter God. It was something of a surprise, but I feel so grateful for this part of my journey. The 'house rules' are very important - thank you for insisting. The food, hospitality, attentive care were very cherishing. To receive such grace was incredibly restorative.
12,000 Mile Service April 2018
Warm hospitality, beautiful surroundings, attention to detail re comfort and facilities, freedom to dip in/ out, whole experience has been refreshing and restorative.
12,000 Mile Service April 2018
I found my stay at Sheldon helpful and enjoyable because of the peace and tranquillity, and the beauty of God's creation and signs of new birth. To have the space to think or pray, and to listen to God in this 'thin' place. Thank you for the nourishing meals and the comfortable accommodation, and Community prayers.
Private Retreat April 2018
Sheldon is, as ever, a place of warm and welcoming hospitality. It is well-run, well-maintained, clean and comfortable - every detail is covered. Stephen had clearly put a great deal of thought and care into the material he shared with us. Grateful thanks to the great team of staff and volunteers who make all this possible.
Stephen Cherry Retreat April 2018
This was an excellent retreat. I had read one of Stephen Cherry's books as well as Dame Julian's Revelations. I found Rev. Cherry's commentary and elucidation of the Middle English text quite fascinating and enriching - I had read the book as a literary text rather than a theological one - and found the entire experience extraordinarily interesting. Every session was lucid, clear, enlightening and I particularly enjoyed the readings ... The food is great here, the community very kind and supportive. Thank you. Sheldon is a very special place - the landscape is stunningly beautiful (as are the sheep) and the weather actually pulled itself together! I feel renewed and restored. I went for wonderful walks which did me good, and I liked/ felt supported by having a regular programme of talks and prayers/ holy communion. I am very grateful to this place (and all who sail in her!) - thank you.
Stephen Cherry Retreat April 2018
It's becoming a home-from-home, having been here 3 times now. It is good, safe space to rest and recharge. And talk to lambs, and 'play' in the art shed, and look at the primroses, and sit in the garden, and contemplate in the sanctuary ... Just wish I could stay longer!
Private Retreat April 2018
Gentle, encouraging and very helpful workshop leader. Excellent food. Relaxing safe atmosphere. Comfortable clean rooms with everything that was needed. Measured, calm and inspirational worship. The rhythm of life here is peaceful, unhurried and prayerful.
Low Sunday R5 and Writing for Pleasure Workshop April 2018
Your wonderful hospitality restores my soul! I particularly valued prayer in the labyrinth that enabled me to resolve some issues I'd brought with me. I shall return home refreshed and in good spirit.
Low Sunday R5 April 2018
Here was time and space and resources to stimulate reflection and creativity. There was no pressure to conform to any timetable or daily pattern. It has been a time of refreshing.
Private Retreat April 2018
I came exhausted physically and mentally and emotionally. On high vigilance. The calm of the surroundings and the people running this place. The 1-1 and the jacuzzi/ massage attended to all my needs. The lovely food stocking my fridge meant I ate regularly and healthily. Thank you so much. I leave feeling rested and with new energy. My body has relaxed beyond belief and I've found time here also to play - the art shed was also an invaluable resource in my recovery.
Private Retreat March 2018
The peace of this place, wonderful facilities and amazing loving hospitality provided "time out" from normal daily concerns allowing me to participate fully in the course on offer. Walking alone in the woods at dawn was deeply spiritual! Something I will always remember. Thank you so much for everything.
Black Sheep and Prodigals March 2018
Sheldon was an ideal place to hold this retreat as we were surrounded by the beautiful countryside - the sunshine was a bonus. I found the course thought-provoking and inspiring - much to think over. Thank you for allowing me once more to enjoy staying in your very special place - to be surrounded by the beautiful Devon hills, the peace, the comfort, the good food and the welcome is a spiritual joy.
Black Sheep and Prodigals March 2018
I learned a great deal about the Enneagram personality indicator, and think I discovered more about myself - but also found the amount of information given confused me rather. It was good, though, to return to Sheldon and to share with like-minded people. The hospitality and accommodation was superb, as usual. Many many thanks, too, for the extra days of hospitality due to the snow - so generously and graciously given. God bless everyone - and thank God for Sheldon and it's community. I was only sorry the weather found country walks difficult!
Enneagram Workshop March 2018
It's warm and comfortable in beautiful surroundings. Good conference facilities, attentive staff and lovely food.
Servants and Stewards February 2018
No shop talk - what an inspired set of rules! Hard to stick to but well worth it. Comfortable well equipped accommodation - plus lovely food - what is there not to like. Sheldon is a peaceful, God-centred place, a 'holy bubble' to shut out the demands of the world. A place to truly be at one with God's creation - and be pampered as well!
12,000 Mile Service February 2018
This is a place of holy, open space. You take such beautiful, thoughtful care of your guests. It's good to have the opportunity to do consecrated nothing.
12,000 Mile Service February 2018
Sheldon provided a place to pray, rest and walk in God's creation. You have constructed a Holy place where you can feel the peace of God.
Private Retreat February 2018
This is a truly wonderful place to step back, pray, read and re-charge emotionally, mentally and spiritually. Thank you for making it special and for the beautiful cleanliness and the little special touches.
Private Retreat February 2018
R5 - just the right balance between sociability and alone-time. Library was helpful, and chapel times.
Work party - great to work alongside others in a sensitively structured setting - i.e. you make the decisions, we just enjoy a sense of achievement!
Both - prayerful, loving hospitality, great food, very special Candlemas celebration.
Candlemas Workparty and R5 February 2018
I relaxed as soon as I got here. A breath of fresh air in a busy term. I feel like I've been here a week - not just a weekend. Your hospitality and attention to detail was staggering.
Private Retreat January 2018
Once again my time here has been a huge blessing - time to stop, think, reflect, reassess and prepare for what's next in a peaceful Christ centred atmosphere - thank you. Thank you for catering for my gluten free meals.
New Year R5 January 2018
The kindness and care of the community and volunteers. The very best of home made/ home grown food. One-one sessions - v. v. grateful for these. Massage sessions - relaxing, I knew what to expect after the first session, steadily the same and unobtrusive. A safe place at a vulnerable time. A sacred place knowing there is the rhythm of daily prayer. The different spaces to inhabit, including the labyrinth and the Art Shed. Thank you.
Private Retreat January 2018
Just what was needed after a busy time with family, concerts, services etc. Beautiful surroundings, comfort, peace, warm welcome, amazing massage, comfortable accommodation and delicious food - loved all the fruit and veg and enjoyed the traditional casseroles.
Private Retreat January 2018
The warm welcome. The quiet under-girding prayer. The superb and flexible accommodation - we used the Long Barn, with its lounge, kitchen and sun porch - people loved it - especially the picture windows ... meditating while looking out over a beautiful winter landscape. Being able to walk as well as talk and be quiet - the winter woodland trails, and the labyrinth, that delighted and fascinated several of the group. Prayer as a journey IN, then OUT - on the 'Godincidences' of turning points and reversals on their life's journey. Jan's intro was wonderful - a cheerful chatty glimpse of the whole history of the Community of Mary and Martha and the characters old and young who make you up. Thank you.
Parish Advent Quiet Day December 2017
We found our stay enjoyable because it provided the perfect venue for our large family get together - comfortable beds, en-suite rooms and plenty of space to eat and relax, play games including a murder mystery! We have had a fantastic time and are grateful for such a venue. Thank you.
Family Celebration December 2017
I found my stay very helpful. I could hear God clearly through His word. Very quiet and peaceful environment. My purpose for coming was successfully achieved. I loved it.
Private Retreat December 2017
The quiet. The facilities are excellent and the staff helpful and unobtrusive. It was warm and comfortable. Many thanks indeed for all your help and assistance ... Our folks still went out and enjoyed walks between showers.
Parish Quiet Day December 2017
It has been a very busy year and the peace of this place has been a real blessing. I leave feeling much relaxed and refreshed - spiritually and physically. Thank you. Just what I needed.
Private Retreat December 2017
Peaceful and quiet - setting, uninterrupted.
Relaxing - comfortable, massage, able to lie in!
Reflective - time and space to read and pray.
Expansive - able to run and go for walks.
Beautiful - helped by the weather.
Private Retreat December 2017
This week gave me time to re-connect with God. Time alone, time in prayer left to just get on with it. No expectations. My visit was relaxing, prayerful and inspirational.
12,000 Mile Service November 2017
I was me, not defined by my role or title, merely a disciple, as were we all. It was very liberating. I really enjoyed the lack of an agenda and expectations and loved my time in the art shed. I particularly enjoyed walking the labyrinth as I prayed.
12,000 Mile Service November 2017
I felt so well cared for spiritually, physically, mentally and emotionally. The retreat was the most helpful and valuable I've ever been on, with exceptional input and space to reflect. I was carrying a serious anxiety ... but I felt I couldn't have been in a better place than this to be waiting for news. I'm grateful to the whole of your community. Hearing the names of those of my friends being prayed for during the week gave me a great sense of connection with others through prayer.
Janet Morley Retreat November 2017
The programme was perfect - content, sensitivity, amount, timings, creative - absolutely wonderful and very helpful. Worship was simply lovely. The unlocked doors really helped get me in a new place. It might be helpful to remind people to bring a big towel. Another sunny day would have helped! [Webeditor: Information about whether or not guests need to bring towels is on the booking confirmation email, but we're always happy to provide one when people forget or don't realise they've been asked to bring one]
Janet Morely Retreat November 2017
Simon Parke was very good - I think the best retreat I've been on. Lots to think about. He was also obviously very caring about all the retreatants. Accommodation as wonderful as ever - warm rooms, excellent meals, caring staff. Details of local walks greatly appreciated. Upkeep of gardens and woodland fantastic!
Simon Parke Retreat November 2017
A fruitful, albeit challenging, retreat. People are happy/ mutually supportive here. You affirm your guests - and you are a happy and wholesome community. There is a 'healthy' atmosphere. A request - a few more (non sheep) postcards suitable to send to children please. [Webeditor: Thank you for your feedback. We will certainly look into adding a wider range of child-friendly postcards in future]
Simon Parke Retreat November 2017
Sheldon has been such a blessing to me in a time of need. The guidance, healing, restoration and rest, the Lord has given in abundance through His beauty in this place - the grounds, the building, the people. I had a stocked larder which was so wonderful. I even produced a 'work of art' in the brilliant art shed and I'm not 'art inclined.' I go back home with a new found joy, lightness in my spirit and restored hope. Thank you everyone. I will be back. Anyone who comes here surely can only sense His presence and so go home changed.
Private Retreat November 2017
It is so peaceful and quiet. The rooms are warm and cosy and spotless. I could quite happily live here for the rest of my days. The grounds are stunning. Every last detail has been thought out. The art materials brought me real joy at being able to try my hand with different materials. I feel refreshed and revitalised. I particularly enjoyed watching the birds feed from my window.
Private Retreat November 2017
The members of the community were all very helpful when we needed them. They were friendly, but sensitive and discreet when we met them around the place. The food [stocked larder] is lovely. There is plenty of it, and it's no trouble if you ask for extra of anything. The home-made food is particularly enjoyable - compliments to the chefs - the soups deserve a special mention. You are to be congratulated!
Private Retreat November 2017
Space, beauty of surroundings, warm hospitality, worship, silence, good combination of silence and chat, lovely leader and good spiritual input, great to have the space to be creative, to try new things and the massage was just heavenly!
Contemplative Crafting Retreat November 2017
Wonderful venue, location and facilities with generous hospitality. Anne and George were brilliant in retreat leading and inspiring creativity. The sessions were absorbing and refreshing at the same time.
Contemplative Crafting Retreat November 2017
Our visit was helpful and enjoyable because of the environment, the ambience and the friendliness of both staff and other guests. The community's efforts in lowering greenhouse gas emissions is notable and very commendable.
Church Weekend Away October 2017
It was so peaceful and supportive. The accommodation was excellent; nice and warm, too. The food was fantastic - and perfect for my dietary requirements. Lots of resources and clear instructions. Massage and 1:1s were most beneficial. I had a wonderful week, thank you.
Private Retreat October 2017
Very well-appointed accommodation in peaceful surroundings, with lovely attention to detail and all our needs met. It is so easy to be silent for reflection and to come away feeling refreshed and renewed.
Andrew Nunn Retreat October 2017
I have loved being in the home of Mary and Martha. The loving kindness and care for us is expressed in everything: the beautifully prepared rooms (and flowers), the lovingly prepared meals, the gift of space and corporate silence and prayer, the grounded wisdom, the hospitality, the warmth of welcome, the culture. Thank you for the Art Room. Thank you for the Hub.
Andrew Nunn Retreat October 2017
I enjoyed watching the birds feeding from the bird feeder - it helps me to remember that God feeds us all and provides for us all. It is so helpful to be somewhere where you are out in the middle of nowhere. Away from the bustle of town and village life. The 'letting go.' The being able to leave your room unlocked which is a massive thing. It helps you to put your trust in God and people again.
Andrew Nunn Retreat October 2017
We were met on arrival, booked in and shown around the Pound House - and how to make drinks! When the whole group were together we were given all the necessary information and then left undisturbed. A lovely lunch was served followed at 3pm with tea and cake. For us all it was a perfect retreat. Thank you all so much.
Pinhoe Prayer Breakfast Group October 2017
A happy and blessed stay at Sheldon - as always. You get the balance between hospitality and individual space just right. The Pig Pen had everything I needed for self catering and it was good to join with you in Community Prayer.
Private Retreat October 2017
I came here for many years when I was in full-time ministry as an oasis in a very hectic life. This is my second visit since retirement and it still means a lot to me. It's a safe place where I feel cared for and can work out issues and plan the future. As a single person there is a particular sense at being looked after that is very welcome. Well worth the 340 mile journey that I now have to make!
R5 October 2017
My stay at Sheldon gave me time to rest (only here did I realise how tired I was) and relax and enjoy mouth watering home cooked food and meet some wonderful people. As always Sheldon exceeds all other places of relaxation.
R5 October 2017
My stay in the Pig Pens was fantastic. What an amazing resource - I have been so comfortable and loved the facilities of the room and indeed the whole complex.
Private Retreat October 2017
Thank you for all that the Sheldon Centre gave to me in the few days I spent with you. Acceptance, a willingness to stay and listen were the spiritual, emotional gifts you gave. Practical help with food and shelter added to the sense of being 'held' within the love of God.
Private Retreat October 2017
I found this week useful because it provided a safe place away to consider the way beyond the ministry post I am in. Helpful because of the 1:1 time to unload recent history and be encouraged that I have experience to offer in a new post. Enjoyable because of the welcome and care from the Sheldon Community and volunteers, as well as the always lovely environment. My visit was affirming, reassuring, life-giving.
12,000 Mile Service October 2017
A wonderful space. Aware of being prayed for. Well appointed Hen Run, nice and quiet. We were self catering and ran out of a few things - it would be helpful to be able to buy fruit/veg/cake from the kitchen or shop - sometimes there has been a box of surplus veg which is good. [Webeditor: It's always worth asking, and sometimes we have garden or other surplus, but we don't have enough demand to keep an actual shop running]
Private Retreat October 2017
So uplifting - the peace and solitude. All lovely as usual.
Quiet Day September 2017
Sheldon is the perfect refuge - one can be totally oneself - a rare luxury.
Linhay Lodge September 2017
I came on the recommendation of colleagues and because I wanted a breathing space before an interview for a new post. I'm blown away by the peace, beauty and comfort, and the sense of being held in prayer. Thank you so much for your ministry and may it continue to be as richly blessed as it has blessed me this weekend.
Linhay Lodge September 2017
Lovely location, surrounded by green fields and trees. Very quiet (at least until we arrived!). Every facility that we needed. Warm welcome given. An ideal opportunity for us to get to know other members of our congregation better and to develop our Christian community.
Parish Weekend Away September 2017
The utmost care that is taken for every aspect of my stay - the room, the food, the caring staff, the beautiful surroundings - it provides a backdrop where it is possible to meet God in peace and beauty.
Private Retreat August 2017
I have felt cherished. The lodge is comfortable with lovely homely touches. The surroundings are beautiful - such an atmosphere and ethos of care for the environment, so evident with the abundance of wildlife. I have been nourished physically and spiritually - such peace. The Retreat Lectionary has been particularly helpful. Thank you for the prayer and care which has gone into making Sheldon what it is.
Linhay Lodge August 2017
Peace and quiet, beautiful views, space to walk and wander, holy places to pray. Nothing was required of us, no deadlines to meet or schedule to follow. The hospitality was SO thoughtful and generous and flexible. We think that you have just about got it perfect. One suggestion would be to have some facilities for exercise, e.g. an exercise bike/ gym.
Linhay Lodge August 2017
We felt loved and cared for. Everything we needed was here. The Art Shed - Wow - Brilliant. Sheldon is a perfect holiday, a fabulous refuge for those of us in ministry.
Clergy Family Holiday Week August 2017
Another fantastic week filled with fun and laughter, meeting old friends and new. A great safe space for our children to explore with such a sense of freedom. Wonderful food, helpers and scenic views. So lovely to spend quality, family time together. That's why we keep coming back and will be back again next year, and for many years to come.
Clergy Family Holiday Week August 2017
I found my stay enjoyable because of its glorious setting in beautiful countryside and the peaceful, encouraging and reflective atmosphere. The facilities made the stay a wonderful experience - lovely rooms, coffee and tea making easy and biscuits! The community members were so helpful. The food was nutritious and lovingly prepared. All in all, a special experience.
Maragret Silf Retreat August 2017
My accommodation in the Pig Pen was ideal. Everything I needed was provided. I was far older than the others and they were so kind. I had time to think - watching the birds enjoying their nuts was a highlight of the week. So peaceful, the programme was well thought out.
Margaret Silf Retreat August 2017
It is blissfully relaxing. We loved the Roost - its secluded privacy and french windows, ease of use and general comfort. Thank you, lovely Sheldon people, for facilitating all this and creating the atmosphere.
Private retreat August 2017
My stay had all the great features that make me return - quiet (and community), beauty, space, practical care and an extraordinary sense of being led and taught by God. This time I had the added joys of the Art Shed. Thank you!
Linhay Lodge July 2017
My stay has given me space to pray, rest, read and reignite my desire to follow Jesus. Thank you all for your welcome and quiet service.
Private Retreat July 2017
We love the peace and quiet, the possibility to explore places we hadn't been before. Comfortable, really well laid out and thought out accommodation. Great views. Effective and pain relieving massage. Space to just be with no pressure to 'do'.
Linhay Lodge July 2017
I found the combination of relaxation and refreshment together with the stimulus of engagement with Erica Longfellow a good balance. Erica's thorough planning and preparation made the two day programme informative and spiritually strengthening. The small size of the group enabled sharing at an intimate level. She is a delightful leader who gave an assurance of trust and 'safety' within the group.
R5 and Unruly Women July 2017
The care and consideration taken generally, and the attention to detail in the pre-planning and delivery of the whole experience. Specifically, Erica Longfellow is such an interesting, stimulating leader. The small group worked well.
Unruly Women July 2017
I found the Art shed quite overwhelming at first with so many materials on offer to use. But the space was so conducive to creativity, that I soon settled in and just had so much fun. This is a very valuable resource and I can see by the work left on the walls how much it is appreciated by all who spend time there.
R5 July 2017
This was the 3rd and final visit to Sheldon of my 3 month Sabbatical. I found the level of care and attention to be just what I needed. I felt supported and looked out for, whilst just being able to do my own thing.
The food was, as always, was very good and punctuating the day with meals and snacks was very helpful for me, especially being with other people. I found that the community at Sheldon were focused on what I needed and I am very grateful for this. A big thank you to Sheldon Community and also to the volunteers who gave up their time to serve.
R5 July 2017
By way of thanks, I would like to share a poem I found in your library one wet afternoon:
A gentle place
In the learning of love
You'll need a gentle place
To which you can go
When the wounds seem too much to bear.
A place where the speaking is honest,
The confusion is acknowledged
And the hurt is bathed.
When you know your life is hugged
You are there....
Simon Parke -The Learning of Love
Linhay Lodge July 2017
Sheldon exemplifies loving service and this was so evident throughout the week. Thank you for the warmth of welcome, the attention to detail and the freedom from stress and pressure. Mark's retreat inspired, challenged, confirmed but also opened my eyes in fresh ways. First class!
The Splash of Words Retreat June 2017
Even though I knew that a retreat at Sheldon, led by Mark Oakley, on the subject of poetry would not disappoint, it exceeded all expectations. This week has been transformative! A journey through poetry that was personal, informative, inspirational - touching the soul again and again. I was surprised and delighted that for the most part it was a silent retreat. Excellent facilities, dedicated staff and volunteers create a peaceful welcome and wholesome meals. Delighted to discover the Art Shed and once again indulge in a wonderful therapeutic massage.
The Splash of Words Retreat June 2017
My stay provided the perfect opportunity to get away and spend time with God. The Lodge provides everything you need. The grounds are perfect to wander around and explore. I particularly valued the garden and sanctuary as areas that could only be accessed by those on private retreat. Thank you.
Linhay Lodge June 2017
I came to Sheldon for the first time last year - & still remember that 'wow' on arrival, of thinking: people who don't even know me care enough to provide all this for me. This year, I knew what to expect and so came looking forward to something familiar and good - & Sheldon has more than lived up to that expectation. I particularly value:
- The sense of 'settledness' here, which is very soothing - I feel safe & secure here at a very deep level
- The practical things, like the standard of cleanliness - such a blessing to enjoy as my Rectory is never that clean!
- The fact that Sheldon is about caring for mind, body & spirit - the whole person
- Talking to the sheep
- Watching young birds tuck into the peanuts
- Sitting in the Linhay garden (the Med. garden looks lovely this year)
- Getting to know a new resident Bear, as I'm in a different Lodge this time
- The food, esp. the stews, & the provision of extra fruit as I'd asked for no puddings
- This year the Art Room was a brilliant discovery, even for one who doesn't think she is very 'artistic'
And whereas last year I wanted complete solitude, this year I felt able to join in prayers & go for a massage - so even in a small way, it's been lovely to get to know the community a bit better.
Private Retreat June 2017
Sheldon has become my spiritual home from home - from the moment of arriving I feel its healing touch beginning. Accommodation that is just right, looking out at a view that lifts the spirits and the quiet, unobtrusive upholding by the Sheldon Community. Truly you are a wonderful gift to the Church.
Private Retreat June 2017
I just wanted to thank you for a brilliant weekend retreat with you. It was just what I needed - time, space, quiet and solitude to think, to pray, to be, to listen, to enjoy the beauty of creation. I came away refreshed and with the sense that I had heard God's still, quiet voice that is so hard to hear in the busy-ness of life, and so have a clearer sense of "what's next". (although selfishly another 24 hours would have been amazing!) What perhaps touched me more than anything was the kind thoughtfulness of the way you do things at Sheldon, such as the coffee in the fridge, packet of biscuits, wine glasses, cafetiere, etc. It's that extra small stuff that communicates something of the Father's love. Thank you! I have every expectation I'll be back!
Private Retreat May 2017
I came more tired than I realised and left feeling rested and relaxed with some new ideas to try. Working in the art shed was pure joy. I found it a friendly, non- threatening space, either alone or working alongside others. When painting with acrylics, said the helpful guide book, the brush strokes are part of the picture and meant to show. I began to think about letting others see the "brush strokes" in my life when things were difficult rather than hiding away or pretending everything was "fine".
I wondered what it would be like, this Easter, being a guest rather than part of the volunteer work party and whether I would feel out of things. It was made easy because the distinction between guest and volunteer was clear (guests could walk away from the washing up!) and there was still the feeling of "family" which I have always enjoyed about work parties.
R5 April 2017
The utter peace - not just the wonderful surroundings but the 'prayed-in' peace. All equipment we needed (though more up-to-date hob-plates whenever they need replacing!)Thank you! A huge thank you!
Linhay Lodge April 2017
Space to think and pray. Especially liked that there is no mobile signal.
Private Retreat April 2017
The staff were helpful, caring and unintrusive, but also around when needed. The menu was varied and delicious. The weekend gave us all the time and space needed to relax in peace and tranquillity. There was nothing we would have changed, the whole weekend was wonderful. Thank you so much and we all look forward to seeing you all next year.
Women's 12 step retreat March 2017
We enjoyed the space and setting - but also the proximity of towns and city. We need enough people!The hour with Carl was very helpful, especially following on where I was at my last visit 2 years ago.Thank you to everyone who made out visit possible! God bless you and your ministry.
Private Retreat March 2017
The Linhay Lodge was perfect - particularly the view! The stocked larder was ample and enjoyable to eat. The space to do my own thing without anyone around. Nothing could improve it at all. Thank you very much.
Linhay Lodge March 2017
The retreat leader was excellent!
Food was brilliant... recipes I will try at home. Jacuzzi was such a treat - what a great addition. I was able to rest & reflect & face some of my own challenges - in a supportive environment.
Ian Mobsby retreat March 2017
When I come to Sheldon, I'm not always sure what I need, but God knows, and somehow I usually find it!
The vegetarian food has been very good this week. Thank you for the care and sensitive approach and for the prayers which are offered. It makes Sheldon a very special place.
I think it's great that Sheldon runs programmes like the Enneagram event which has been so popular this week. However, had I realised that Sheldon would be SO busy this week, as a result of the workshop, I probably would not have come this week. After a couple of meals with the large group I took the option of meals on a tray - for which I was very very grateful. [Webeditor: yes, it turned out to be exceptionally full and busy - we have re-thought this particular combination for 2018 so it doesn't recur.]
R5 March 2017
The comfort and level of service within the accommodation were excellent. The beauty and tranquillity of the surroundings allowed us to focus calmly and in depth on ourselves and our next steps in life. Getting away from our busy schedules, communicating with like minded people in informal settings and enjoying healthy food and fresh air was just what we needed.
Ladies' 12 step retreat group March 2017
I love the Sheldon rules, it made it possible to chat without bringing work sneaking into my retreat. It was useful to have wifi so I could Skype with my husband.
I'm finding it hard to suggest any improvements! Maybe a bit of quiet background music at meals? Makes it easier to keep quieter in a big group sometimes. Although I liked sharing meals, I will try one of the lodges, pig pens or hen runs next time. I just wanted to make sure I had enough people time. This is the first retreat centre I have been to and straight away wanted to book another visit.
R5 March 2017
I was given the space, privacy & freedom to use my time here as I wished, without any expectations placed on me. The facilities were perfect for my needs & the quietness & solitude exactly what I was needing!
The beauty of the grounds were a balm & if it were possible I would have loved to stay longer!
Private retreat March 2017
It has given me some much needed respite from the busyness of parish life. As ever, Sheldon's beautifully maintained surroundings and generous hospitality have been wonderfully restorative, and I am returning home with renewed energy & vision.
You have provided for my every need, including a bath towel, which I realised (on my journey here) that I had forgotten! And the art room is fantastic! Thank you so much to all staff and volunteers - and particularly the members of the community - for providing this unique place of rest and healing.
Enneagram workshop March 2017
There is a relaxed. warm & welcoming feel about the place & people. Non-threatening/non-intrusive atmosphere. Spotlessly clean accommodation, good food & amazing countryside. Excellent course tutor. Couldn't improve it! Many thanks for all the hard work that goes into maintaining such a retreat.
Enneagram workshop March 2017
I was exhausted when I arrived at Sheldon after a very busy few weeks. I received such great care and gentleness at every contact with the Sheldon staff who were practical, sensitive and caring from welcome to leaving.
My 1:1 with Sarah was tailored to me and giving me strategies and thoughts to make the best of my time there but also helpful things when I got home. My massage was wonderful. Such care was taken by Jan in such comfortable surroundings.
It was just perfect. Thank you so much for all that you have done for me.
Private retreat March 2017
A fabulous place which will become a new retreat place for me. The level of comfort and space and sense of holistic care is exactly what I needed. Offering Jacuzzi & massage helped enormously. Every comfort had been thought of.
Private retreat March 2017
Lovely welcome. Quiet space to do my own stuff. Conversation that was welcome. Kind and comfortable Linhay. I would have found my stay at Sheldon more useful/helpful/enjoyable if I'd had a few more days to be here and even more of the daffodils had been out in the woods!!
Private retreat March 2017
So good to be here again and to receive such solid support at this time of unexpected anxiety. Thanks for the love and peace.
Private retreat February 2017
The directions given were very clear and helpful. We found the place without any detours! Thomas' Lodge is very comfortably and tastefully furnished to a high standard. Lots of thoughtful touches - flowers/welcome cake/bits and pieces in the cupboard under sink in bathroom... The food is REALLY good. Wholesome, tasty, home-made, varied... really lovely to have so much home-made/home-grown stuff. And congratulations to the person who must have EXCELLENT spatial awareness to fit all that food into a small freezer compartment - hats off to you! We have found the community members and volunteers to be helpful and friendly, and any requests we made were dealt with very efficiently. (The green request forms work well!) Sometimes having lots of notices around can seem quite brusque and impersonal, but you've even managed to have a gentle, kindlier tone in the many helpful notices that are scattered around.
Jan, the masseuse, was very gentle and reassuring to a first-timer! The way she explained everything calmly was helpful and put me at my ease.
This is a very tiny thing, and, had we asked, you would no doubt have helped us out - some washing up gloves would have been helpful. [Webeditor: yes - do ask and we'll always try and help with extras!]
It is difficult to see how our stay could have been improved. Thanks very much to all.
Private retreat February 2017
I found this week useful - for 'processing' in a non-judgemental atmosphere - uncomfortable at times, but necessary in order to discover myself again & new direction. Helpful - because I received time 1:1 - listening & spiritual guidance. Enjoyable - because hospitality/care, beautiful surroundings, opportunities to walk, no pressure to join in anything, NO CLERGY SHOP TALK!!, the art shed.
I found the 'space' quite difficult to start with & also the sociability of the meals - but those were my issues, nothing to do with Sheldon! I'm very glad & relieved I came, but it took quite a lot of courage. The no clergy shop talk helped enormously & the clear 'no pressure to attend anything'. A 'buddy' for meals was really appreciated as I felt most vulnerable then. I would have liked a pair of binoculars to borrow to enjoy the birds from the balcony of my room.
3 words to sum up my visit: safe, enlightening, space to grow.
Accommodation comfortable & really well thought out in everything that was provided for us with such care. Grounds and site - fabulous. Worship - I opted out totally. Taken by Surprise workshop met me in just the right place. 1:1 time opened my eyes to art as a way of 'processing' stuff. Just right blend of gentle challenge, spiritual guidance, empathy & good humour. Food wonderful especially the soups. I felt cared for throughout, & prayed for when I couldn't (whether by name or not doesn't matter!)
The no clergy shop talk was absolutely right - but it felt strange at first! The art room was amazingly well equipped - a lovely peaceful space. THANKYOU to all the team for being channels of God's love in so many ways.
12,000-mile Service February 2017
Everything is excellent. Hospitality is so incredibly generous. Whole week so freeing. Time was my own and on day one I thought "my word, what will I do!" No problem "filling" the day with "me time". I have loved it. I am going home encouraged and refreshed. "no clergy talk" BRILLIANT!
My room in the Pound House was very comfortable, thank you so much. Grounds and site beautiful, easy to get about, being on the flat! Worship gentle, helpful, refreshing. Library - hardly used :(
Workshops: Focusing - very insightful, used it throughout week. Sound & Silence - very exciting, we made a very good sound! Taken by Surprise - total surprise, found wonderful poet, filled me with JOY!
Extremely helpful 1:1 with Anne, so many thanks. Massage with Philippa was a real treat, loved it. Food all excellent, wonderful variety, balanced menu. Fat Pigeon very good start to the evening meal. Art Room - very special, am no artist but went most days to play!
It has been a wonderful week, I look forward to coming again, have connected to The Hub.
12,000-mile Service February 2017
Comfortable and warm Pig Pen (Tamworth). Well equipped and comfortable facilities in Long Barn.
LDMT Study break February 2017
It gave me much needed space to look at important issues and seek God's guidance. My discernment was helped and made more enjoyable through the workshops that I attended and the learning from them will go with me. The ability to have a Jacuzzi and massage, far from a frivolity was deeply therapeutic and should not be underestimated. The 1:1 conversations were so appreciated as they offered challenge, as well as a sense of being deeply listened to. Overall hugely helpful - thank you. 3 words to sum up my visit: deep yet light-touch. High window in Pound House meant I felt a bit disconnected from the amazing surroundings [Webeditor: yes - sorry - that is downside of medieval cob walls in that building]. However, it did mean I made myself explore outside, I guess!
12,000-mile Service February 2017
Everything I needed was made available. People were very friendly and helpful. The Art Shed was a wonderful addition. I felt very peaceful and rested by the end of the week. The food was very wholesome and tasty.
Graham Knowles retreat February 2017
I felt the gentle healing love of God wash over me in a way I hadn't dared hope for. The loving care which you take of your guests is what so many clergy are used to GIVING but often find they rarely RECEIVE. The fully stocked larder, warm space, and even a reclining chair which helped physical healing. Special mention of the new Art Room. It is such a wonderful addition to your healing offerings! Even if you are not creative, the room gives you the chance to stand on the warm, heated floor, look at the lovely view, think, and even copy of verses of Scripture or lovely quotations - no one needs to be creative to do that, but the meditative copying offered me so much healing time. I reconnected with my faith, and one particular quote really spoke to me during my time there - "O beauty ever ancient, ever new. Too late have I loved you. I was outside and you were within me. And I never found you until I found You within myself." St Augustine
Private retreat February 2017
Very peaceful and free from interruptions. Ideal for self catering. Very comfortable, self contained accommodation. Brilliant WiFi. No phone signal which was a boon! Location is ideal for quiet reflection on Dartmoor. Floor mat in bedroom was very slippery and requires care not to slip. Duvet was too small!! [Webeditor: we're sorting some non-slip backing for the floor mat. Duvets are standard width but always happy to provide a double on request - have put a note on your record to provide this for you on your next visit.]
Private retreat February 2017
It wasn't my first visit or first private retreat. I went again in January because I had valued my previous experiences. Once again, I was most warmly welcomed and made to feel one of the 'family', and no fuss was made of my need for a private retreat. All in all, my short stay of only four days was a bit of heaven on earth, an experience I shall most certainly repeat. Thank you to all the staff (some of whom I recognised but my poor memory could not recall names - my apologies!) and volunteers. You showed Christ's warmth and care in reality! Years ago on my first private retreat, I had found the poor - or even non-existent - signals for my mobile phone an inconvenience (even though you couldn't have moved heaven and earth to suit guests who couldn't leave 'the world' outside your gates!), but this time, I didn't even miss it one little bit! I have grown up more in my spiritual maturity! :-) My apologies for having taken so long to do this exercise!
Private retreat January 2017
Thomas's Lodge was a very homely place to stay and very well furnished. It was all very peaceful and I value the solitude and also the times of brief contact with the community. I valued the one - one sessions and the morning and evening prayer times ( shame didn't continue over the weekend), and of course relaxing in the Jacuzzi. During my time here I have been able to reflect on my ministry and also to re-connect more with God. The only negative to my stay was that I was disappointed in the stocked larder. The food was very good but not what I was expecting from my phone conversation whilst booking the retreat. I felt that the £355.50 that I paid [Webeditor - actually £255 after ministry and long stay discounts = £18.25/day for 2 weeks] was excessive for what was provided given that some items in the larder had already been used by another guest [Webeditor: yes, the items would have been things like jars of marmalade, packets of muesli, bags of coffee etc - we think guests prefer home-style to plastic portions?]. If there is one thing I have taken from retreat is that I should be more open and honest and that is what I have tried to be with this comment. I want to reiterate the food was good but the cost was excessive (sorry).
Private retreat December 2016
I felt welcomed and cared for. Thank you whoever drew the curtains and left the light on as I'd not arrived in the dark before. As always, I appreciate not having to plan, prepare and clear away meals and really enjoyed the variety. All the hooks in LB8 were useful. I could hook my getting muddy clothes there and hang the tidy ones for evening. I'm glad wi-fi isn't automatically available. Home again, some of the emails waiting for me tipped me right back into pre- Christmas busyness, it was a good move not to have access to them whilst away. The decorations in the chapel and around the buildings were beautiful.
R5 New Year 2016/2017
The qualities, skills, vision, experience, personality and lightness of touch of the retreat leader were so well suited to his subject. I came with a burden which cannot be removed, but this retreat has eased the load considerably.
Sit, Breathe, Love Retreat December 2016
It enabled me to get away to a quiet place and reflect on my situation. Although my visit served its purpose, Sheldon is too far away for me to repeat the experience in the future.
Private retreat November 2016
It is good to return to this special place and community. The course, Imaging God through Icons was led prayerfully by one who alleged not to be an expert but an enthusiast. That enthusiasm, steeped in an appreciation of the theological roots of the images and their historical context was truly enriching. The hospitality of the house was as ever warm and understated. I/we would have found our stay at Sheldon more useful/helpful/enjoyable if ... the course had perhaps had another two sessions, perhaps starting on the Tuesday afternoon / evening as there was so much to embrace. I will definitely be planning another visit to Mary & Martha either annually or bi-annually.
Imaging God Workshop, November 2016
The staff are amazing, helpful, supportive, professional and friendly. They create a 'safe' environment that restores the soul. The programme was perfectly balanced with spiritual rhythm, input and time to reflect, process and relax. I have already recommended to friends that they should come.
I would like to say a specific thank you to Carl and John for leading through the week. For excellent support & encouragement on my journey. For Jan for giving me the best massage I've ever had. For reminding me to take care of my spiritual health as well as my emotional and spiritual well being. For amazing food - great recipes to take away! Well done Sheldon for your work and faithfulness to God. I'm looking forward to coming back.
Simply Sheldon Retreat, October 2016
I liked the gentle pace and the variety of the sessions and having unplanned afternoons. Also the silent breakfasts, the poems at 5pm prayers and the bedtime stories at night prayers.
Simply Sheldon retreat, October 2016
I know from previous stays at Sheldon (c 5 no.) just how valuable time spent there can be, particularly when one has been under pressure. For 12 months, 2015-16 it fell to me to oversee the upheaval necessitated by a major reordering project in my parish. Inevitably there have been difficulties, setbacks and tensions, as I imagine members of the Sheldon Community may have experienced from time to time in your building projects! These have taken their toll and the prospect of some time at Sheldon, prior to the beginning of Advent, helped to keep me going through a very busy Autumn. The weather was better than during any of my previous visits (I have never seen the R. Teign running so sluggishly!), I managed to catch up on some reading and make a start on my overdue Ministry Development Review. I enjoyed revisiting Brixham/Berry Head, Exeter and Bovey Tracey. I was made to realise that I may not be able to manage the hills locally much longer, although I very much enjoyed riding (well, pushing most of the way!) up to Blackingstone Rock, as well as the route 'over the top' to Bovey. I find what you offer at Sheldon invaluable - the accommodation (together with so many thoughtful 'touches'), the food, the chapels, the daily rhythm of prayer, the opportunity to meet and mix with members of the Community here and there, the jacuzzi, the setting and more besides. I enjoyed going in to Exeter to attend the lunchtime Eucharist at the Cathedral on Wednesday but (as during my previous stay) I found it difficult trying to park (the Park and Ride was full). I imagine it might not be easy to arrange, but I will continue to return in the hope that, I might be lucky and find that there is to be a celebration of the Eucharist in the Chapel of Mary, Martha and Lazarus at some point during any future stay. That beautiful space appears - quite properly - to have been created as much to 'house' same, more than any other act of worship...
R5 November 2016
Beautiful setting. Real sense of the peace & presence of God. Ideal accommodation. Privacy protected. Community members very friendly, helpful, sensitive & discrete. Willing to have me stay at very short notice. Flexible private retreat programme. Good facilities and range of activities. Thoughtful provision of resources. Loved walking in the grounds both fields & woods. Private Linhay chapel a wonderful, prayerful space. 1:1 sessions extremely helpful. Recommend taxi service very good. I really didn't want to leave any negative feedback! Only one thing, the bed needs a mattress topper. I struggled to sleep most nights as it was just too hard [Webeditor: needs for mattress styles vary hugely - we have bed boards and mattress toppers available on request]. Would love to come back!
Private retreat September 2016
It was a very interesting and informative course. The other participants were supportive and helpful, and we formed a little community for the time of the course. Karen led the course in a friendly and relaxed way, allowing the group to express themselves in body mind and spirit. I came home with lots to think about and ponder, and felt that I had grown in spiritual understanding.
I would have loved to stay longer and next time will attend from Sunday through to Friday - I hope. The grounds and accommodation were superb and I will return - hopefully to sample the Five Rs programme. I loved the atmosphere of Sheldon - and the food is wonderful and I loved the fact that the social rules were observed and people could just be themselves - out of role.
Enneagram workshop September 2016
Another great Sheldon family holiday - thank you to everyone on the team for making it happen. This is such a wonderful place. One of the things that makes this holiday so good is the flexibility & space - we can be together or alone or mix with others; we can stay in or go out or whatever. The evening activities this year were particularly good, especially the Bake Off.
Family Holiday Week August 2016
We were very warmly welcomed. The Pig Pen was so comfortable. It was so peaceful and every need was catered for. All is so very well organised and labelled. The volunteers were so kind, helpful and considerate. Nothing was too much trouble. Food was plentiful and delicious with enough choices available.
We wish there had been a table tennis table to play on!!
Thank you very much indeed for a wonderful holiday. Thoroughly enjoyed it and will highly recommend to others.
Family Holiday Week August 2016
I simply wanted to say a huge thank you for the R5 week which ended today. I have so enjoyed my stay which has come at a point of major transition in my own life. The setting, resources, wonderful food and gentle, inclusive hospitality, have all been first class. I am very grateful indeed and while the future is still full of huge questions, it has changed from being a place of dreary, life sapping responsibility to a place of 'dazzling darkness', which is thoroughly invitational. And that's fine. Thank you to the whole team who make Sheldon such a special place.
R5 June 2016
This is a peaceful place - organised, disciplined - like an ark, a place of safety and hope. I adore the little thatched chapel which is filled with all the prayers offered up between its walls - faith is not an easy place - but the chapel gives one courage.
R5 July 2016
It's a beautiful place where the children easily made friends and were provided with fun and accessible activities to do with parents and other families - fabulous! The staff/volunteers made every effort to bless us with generosity and care so us to make us feel relaxed and spoilt. A wonderful place for a much needed break. Would have been better if (1) the bar had stayed open later [Webeditor: sorry, we're a small team and need our sleep between then and breakfast time!] (2) the mattress covers were less noisy [Webeditor: we've just bought a whole set of new ones we hope you will like better] (3) Perhaps there could have been a reminder during the week that people will miss out on the blessing (that experience of leaving it all behind for a week) that is available to them if they do talk about work and by not abiding by the house rule, others also miss out on that feeling of being totally away from it all [Webeditor: sorry - it's always such a delicate balancing act this one - when to guide, when to protect, when to police - we continue to try and improve ...]
Family holiday week August 2016
Here I find solitude that opens the door into my soul. The opportunity to be alone in community in the comfort and luxury of the Linhay nourishes body, mind and spirit in a unique way. Thank you Jan for all the delicious goodies, they have been a real treat. Thank you Sarah for making sense of my ramblings in so constructive a way. And thank you the whole Sheldon Community team who make this place what it is - a deeply rich blessing.
Linhay private retreat August 2016
The provision of such a peaceful and comfortable 'apartment' was a great blessing, leaving me free to come and go and do/not do whatever served my needs. The 1:1 and the massage were important contributions to my stay; I felt both heard and pampered! The estate, gardens, countryside are a touch of heaven, very thoughtful and generous provision in every way. Thanks be to God! The sense of quiet commitment in the Team renewed my sense of commitment ... though to exactly what remains a mystery! I am in God's 'waiting room' at the moment. I can't think of anything that would have improved my stay. The stocked larder was generous and prepared food a delight.
Hen Run private retreat July 2016
I simply wanted to say a huge thank you for the R5 week which ended today. I have so enjoyed my stay which has come at a point of major transition in my own life. The setting, resources, wonderful food and gentle, inclusive hospitality, have all been first class. I am very grateful indeed and while the future is still full of huge questions, it has changed from being a place of dreary, life sapping responsibility to a place of 'dazzling darkness', which is thoroughly invitational. And that's fine. Thank you to the whole team who make Sheldon such a special place.
R5 June 2016
I just wanted to say ‘thank you’ to you and all at Sheldon for making my brief stay this week possible and profitable. I feel so much better for having been there! Sheldon is clearly a special place, and I feel sure it will not be my last visit – I had a wonderful sense of being undisturbed and free from all expectations, yet cared for at the same time, and somehow safe and secure. I think this is a highly desirable atmosphere for a retreat house, but not necessarily easy to achieve! And I am especially grateful to you for fitting me in as you did – it really was a bit of a Godsend!
R5 June 2016
In a time of great stress, upheaval and difficulty I have found myself in an oasis of God's love, peace and enfolding presence. I have been treated with love, kindness and respect and have been given the resources to pick up the broken pieces and journey on with God. Every aspect of my stay has contributed to the deep healing I have found here in God's presence. Thank you all so much.
Linhay Lodge May 2016
An excellent retreat leader (Margaret Silf). Beautiful surroundings, every comfort and consideration for one's wellbeing. plain and nutritional food. I also found your prayer times so moving and relevant. Would have liked a kettle and tray in each bedroom [webeditor - we are just trialling help yourself kits for hot drinks in bedrooms]
Led retreat May 2016
Wonderful space to be and pray. Amazing location with wonderful views of Dartmoor nearby. Good facilities and hospitality. Having the Sanctuary available for prayer. Good to be able to join in morning prayer. I can honestly say it was as near to perfect as possible! A really wonderful week. Thank you.
Private retreat May 2016
I should like to thank Hillary for welcoming me when I arrived, the people who'd prepared the delicious homemade food that I found in the fridge and cupboards, Jan for the marvellous massage, and Sarah for the 2 x 1:1 sessions, which have made a huge difference to 'where I am' on my journey.
Private retreat May 2016
The accommodation, food and bar were first class. The location was perfect. I was left alone to engage with as much or as little of the programme as I liked. I was challenged NOT to talk about work. All the workshops were right-brained stress-busters - excellent! Loved the simple liturgy.
12,000-mile Service April 2016
The facilities are ideal for our group, much improved since our first visit. The gardens are fabulous with such an abundance of wild flowers in the woodland walk. The amphitheatre is a unique feature and we used the labyrinth for quiet prayer and contemplation as well as both the medieval and new chapels. It has been a perfect location for shared fellowship, reflection and spiritual refreshment. I cannot think how the Sheldon Centre could possibly be improved, it is a unique, peaceful and beautiful gem. My only suggestion is better signposting off the B3212.
St Michael & All Angels Bedminster Parish weekend May 2016
The facilities were ideal - space, layout, access to grounds, chapel and labyrinth. Great kitchen/dining room. Lack of extraneous noise or too many people and respect for our silent periods. It all went very smoothly for which I, as a first time organiser, am hugely grateful!
Parish Quiet Day March 2016
Thank you so much for hosting our diocesan event over the past few days.Your hospitality was second to none, and really appreciated by all who attended. It was quite a "full on" event for us, but the peace surrounding you, not only the premises but also the people, was inspirational. Please pass my personal thanks to all who contributed to making this such a wonderful time; Thank you once again, and may the love of God continue to inspire you.
Monmouth Diocesan Senior Staff team April 2016
The community did exactly what they promised for my R5 week, i.e. we could do exactly as we wished while they kept us deliciously and amply fed and watered. The opening of the Fat Pigeon (bar) for the half-hour before the evening meal was a pleasurable bonus. The sensitivity of the community and members towards my mobility difficulties – from accommodation in the pigpen nearest the dining room and cider press with facilities for disabled people – to the carrying of stuff for me when needed was heartwarming. I've been to Sheldon several times before for different events and the quality of care is undiminished, 5 stars.
R5 April 2016
I knew no-one would come calling and I wasn't accessible by phone or email unless I chose to be. I always enjoy having someone else planning meals and the larder stock was LOVELY- thank you. The fish pie, ready thawed for the first evening filled a very hungry place. Both body and mind could start to relax knowing there was nothing I had to do.
Private retreat March 2016
As usual, I was very comfortable, well-fed, and able to unwind into prayer and reflection (and also quite a lot of sleep). I was squeezed into an already full retreat on the condition that I'd accept a very small room, which would not otherwise have been used. Lovely though the more spacious accommodation is, this one was perfectly adequate for my needs and included an en-suite. I made good use of the Quiet Room, the chapels, and the grounds - excellent weather being a bonus. The highlight this time was afternoon Community Prayers. I found the very simple format and the extended corporate silence enormously helpful. I liked the opportunity to talk with other retreatants during supper and in the bar beforehand, whilst also observing silence for the rest of the time. I returned with quite a bit of food for thought, and in addition did some creative writing for which I'd been wanting time and space. The rhubarb and orange meringue was out of this world!
Led retreat March 2016
At very short notice you found a space for me (thank you!) In the 48 hours I was there, what came across so clearly was your vision, God's ongoing provision, and your unity of purpose. That struck a chord with me as it clarified what matters to me as I considered and prayed through my current circumstances. The atmosphere gave me the answer I was looking for - or rather, the direction. Thank you again. What can I say? It was just right.
Private retreat, March 2016
.. the comfort and level of service within the accommodation were excellent. The beauty and tranquillity of the surroundings allowed us to focus calmly and in depth on ourselves and our next steps in life. Getting away from our busy schedules, communicating with like minded people in informal settings and enjoying healthy food and fresh air was just what we needed.
Catered group - 12 step retreat - spring 2016
I felt lovingly "held" in safety by the Community, the buildings, the place, the food etc, long enough to feel human again. I arrived feeling extremely low and left more able to face a challenging situation. 1:1 was invaluable.
R5 April 2016
I needed space, rest and a chance to come to terms with a bereavement - not why I expected I was coming! This is a very safe space to let go. Thank you. Food was superb.
Private retreat April 2016
This has been really helpful as part of the process of returning to work after a period of depression. I appreciated the quiet, but also shared time for meals. Having been here a number of years ago I know I had to come at this time - not disappointed! The Long Barn - just so comfortable - room was excellent with great views.
R5 April 2016
Perfect balance of comfort and privacy. Very spacious and the prayer meetings made me feel connected to everyone else that was here. The grounds were beautiful and Pig Pen very high standard for a retreat. I loved it.
Private retreat April 2016
Space, peace, time out, no demands, unconditional love ... love the library, the Sanctuary, the seat at the top of 10 acre field. Also like the walk monitor system - would be concerned about going off into the country if no-one knew where I was going. V. grateful you accommodated my diet.
Private retreat April 2016
I could get away from everything. I have been in a blissful bubble, out of time, and expect to return to everyday life with renewed enthusiasm. Thank you.
Private retreat March 2016.
There were no expectations or demands. I was able to take things at my own pace. I found a wonderful book in the library which really spoke to me. I'd thoroughly recommend the Jacuzzi and massage - absolute bliss. The staff are warm and friendly and nothing was any trouble. My 1:1 sessions helped to clarify my thinking and gave me confidence to commit to an important decision about my future. I have been blessed indeed.
Private retreat Mar 2016
I arrived here not knowing what I would find and in my emptiness found what I most needed; a place of welcome gently offered, a space to relax, sleep, reflect, but be. And what a congenial space! Hospitality simply and practically stated, the wonderful home-made food and the 'extras' (Christmas cake on arrival!) which speak volumes. Sharing in prayers with you and the beautiful simplicity of the Candlemas vigil with its invitation to trust and bear the light. I feel blessed and restored. At the beginning of a lengthy 'time out' Sheldon has been the best possible start. You have achieved here what, in my experience, is rare: a high standard of professionalism combined with a deep level of caring - based of course on your long experience. My only regret is that it has taken so long for me to find you.
Private retreat in Hen Run Feb 2016
It was so good knowing there was to be no 'shop talk'. Hobbies and interests made for much better conversation than clerical gripes! One-to-one time was really valuable and my mentor and I were a great 'fit'. The healing Eucharist to conclude the week had a very special atmosphere. The two workshops I attended, though very different, gave me food for contemplation as well as enjoyment. Praise of the highest order for the volunteers. A huge thank you to all.
12,000-mile Service January 2016
We have just returned from our first visit to Sheldon and would like to thank you all for making our time with you so special. It was lovely to be looked after and given space as well. The room was super, the grounds and houses etc so welcoming and the food really delicious. A very special thank you to the person who catered so imaginatively for us. It really seemed that nothing was too much trouble. We hope to return again soon.
R5 February 2016
As always the space that the community creates enables a deep listening to God and a wonderful chance to refresh and renew oneself. The accommodation, grounds and location are amazing. Nobody hassles you and you are left to 'be' before God. My wife and I went on retreat together and the fantastic space allowed us to spend some great time together as husband and wife. Thank you. Only one tiny thing.....it would be nice to have a proper oven in the Linhay Lodge we stayed in. It was difficult to cook some of the meals we had planned to make.
Private retreat in Lodge February 2016
Brilliant retreat. Ian and Gail led it so sensitively and well. Well paced, creative and with depth. Thank you so much. Gorgeous place - fantastic scenery. Uninterrupted views of hills in every direction. A taste of heaven, thank you. V. comfortable bedrooms too, and good to have art box. (nice if mobile signal was better - but maybe it's good to be offline too.)
Unfurling retreat led by Ian and Gail Adams August 2015
Without the distractions of life we were able to focus on reading and reflecting and connecting with God. The accommodation is comfortable and well presented. The picture window and the live action entertainment from the birds a real bonus. You can feel that this is a place dedicated to service and prayer and it is a delight and privilege to be ministered to in this way.
Linhay Lodge private retreat August 2015
I was left alone! This is fantastic! I could do whatever I liked and nobody bothered me at all from dawn to dusk! I had a restful, interesting, active, varied retreat. The Ark had everything I needed and no extra fuss. Stocked larder = 110%! Felt a perfect balance of security and being cared about with no sense at all of pressure, judgement or the need to justify or explain what I was doing (really welcome as an antidote to theological college this past year which is the other way round). Will recommend Sheldon to my fellow ordinands.
Private retreat August 2015
The generosity of Sheldon - care, concern, comfort, attention to detail, food, listening and therapy - was an enormous blessing at a very difficult time. It was an experience of Christ-like love and acceptance. Thank you all. The peace and beauty of the place itself was the start of a healing process.
Private retreat July 2015
We found the freedom for our children in Sheldon great for them to explore their own personal space along with the sense of safety, especially for our Autistic son who felt fully accepted and made lots of new friends, both young and old. He was able to do lots on his own which gave us as parents space and much-needed time together. All the evening activities have been great for all ages - there if you wanted to join in, or watch alongside, or just dip in and out. Both our children have been off and joining in with their new friends. We are sad that the week i over but we will definitely be back next year and we are all looking forward to it.
Family holiday week August 2015
You took me in at short notice as a shaky heap and gave me a safe space in which to begin recovery. Your wrap around hospitality and wisdom gave me much space and time and was unobtrusive. Thank you so much for the peanuts for the birds which enabled me to begin to rest while doing nothing - sounds easy but was incredibly difficult. THANK YOU!
Private retreat July 2015
We were able to have lots of space in a very comfortable and beautiful place. The Lodge was perfect for us with a high level of comfort. The immediate environment of the gardens, the views and walks nearby all helped us to relax and begin to have a restored perspective. We feel rested and refreshed. Thank you for all that you offer.
Private retreat July 2015
Everything was just so right. The accommodation was so welcoming - I loved my Pig Pen! The food was excellent and as much as you wanted. Lovely little touches like flowers on the dining room table. There is a real sense of prayer here, and of being held by the community. Both chapels are wonderful places to pray alone, and to worship together. The grounds are wonderful - plenty of space to wander, and I love the stopping places and benches. You can see how well the land is tended - and the rare breed sheep - fantastic! Emma's talks were wonderful - thoughtful, reflective and so practical and affirming. Along with the community it really felt as if we were held by her in prayer. The Eucharists were truly special. Thank you Emma for all your care and work on our behalf and thank you to the Sheldon Community for creating this place and making us feel welcome but not swamped. Space for God to work! May God bless you in this vital, truly gifted ministry.
Retreat led by Emma Percy July 2015
Sheldon provides a much appreciated haven. The landscape, hospitality and input is exceptional. The chapel and opportunity for restorative worship is life giving. One's needs are met unobtrusively with loving thoughtfulness going on behind the scenes. There is a lack of earnestness & intensity which is refreshing. Simply, this place and its community enable me to have space to breathe and be myself in a busy life. Thanks be to God. Thank you so much to all your team for your quiet and very beautiful ministry. A bit of "thy kingdom come on earth as it is in heaven". Bless you all.
Retreat led by Emma Percy
Once again, thank you so much for all you and the Sheldon community have done for me - I can not thank you enough for your incredible generosity and hospitality and how much this has helped keep me sane when I had used up all my resources to carry on.
Private retreat June 2015
It provided much needed breathing space. I was able to escape and just be. The booking, the stay - everything - was just so straightforward. The light-touch approach was definitely right for me - I felt extremely well looked after and upheld in prayer but without any pressure to be at anything or do anything. The stocked larder, 1-2-1 time and massage were real gifts and blessings to me and facilitated my re-equilibrating (if that's a word!) and meant that I really made the most of my retreat to rest and recuperate after a difficult year or so. I loved not having to speak to another human being and everything being on my terms, especially after a year when life has felt overwhelming and I've felt rather out of control of everything! And I loved the lambs! Thank you Sheldon!
Private retreat May 2015
Please be assured of our grateful thanks and our prayers for your community. We much appreciate all the opportunities we have had to share your very special home.
Dursley Tabernacle church weekend June 2015
The location and quality of the accommodation together with the warmth of the welcome and the discreet but practical nature of the community enabled us to find real rest and peace. God bless.
Private Retreat in a Linhay Lodge. March 2015
It was great to be looked after so well, so quietly and unobtrusively and the accommodation was superb. Just the rest and relaxation we needed, and at short notice too. Many, many thanks. It would be good if you could produce a recipe book for all the pre-prepared meals, which we loved.
Private Retreat in a Linhay Lodge. March 2015
The accommodation and site is impeccable, friendly people but not 'in your face', beautiful location. The facilities were perfect for what I needed; other areas - Sanctuary, library were excellent too. Local walks and further afield were most enjoyable and thanks for arranging a couple of sunny afternoons! I shall definitely be back and will recommend to friends/church. Thanks!! These are silly things really, but could be useful, - just suggestions rather than niggles! - Be useful to know ahead what mobile phone networks do work here! I brought an extra SIM card so I didn't have to use regular phone (02), but not very good coverage. - Next time I shall book a room with a double bed - I'm a big chap and regular single beds are only just adequate, I fell out a couple of times! Nothing you could do about this, I just need to think ahead! Thanks again - every blessing.
Clergy Private Retreat, Hen Run. March 2015.
I had the peace and quiet I needed to focus on my studies and I enjoyed the grounds and beautiful scenery which brought me closer to God. Sheldon has been a wonderful home from home.
Private retreat in Linhay Lodge. March 2015
It was an opportunity to stop and relax in the midst of a time of re-organisation for self and a relative for whom I have a carer responsibility. Sheldon is a relaxed space where I always find peace whatever is going on in life. The retreat was challenging but in a very gentle way. The usual excellent hospitality helped a lot! I can't think of anything that would have improved it.
Journey Home Retreat led by Simon Parke. March 2015
A warm welcome. The loving care given for individual needs giving a feeling of home from home. The beautiful surroundings and spiritual feel to Sheldon enhanced our retreat considerably. One suggestion made was a larger shower curtain in the wet rooms may prevent the floors getting quite so wet, or the provision of a cloth/mop so the the room can be tidied for you.
Womens' 12 Step Retreat. March 2015
Comfortable, warm surroundings. Well-equipped kitchen. Beautiful grounds. Peaceful chapel. Everyone found the day relaxing and refreshing. No improvements necessary!
Exeter Diocese Spiritual Directors self-catering Quiet Day.
Wonderful setting, warm but discreet hospitality, v. comfortable rooms, space to be me with God. Lovely food. Input from Ian was excellent. (I'm being picky now but a kettle to make drinks in the room would be perfect, and slightly stronger coffee in the dining room).
Streams of Light retreat led by Ian Adams, December 2014
There is such a sense of peace and being held by the Community. The retreat was led so sensitively and the Community hold us in that way as well. My dietary requirements were catered for superbly. I am so very grateful to you for this gift of space enabling me to 'come away to quiet place and find rest'.
Streams of Light retreat led by Ian Adams, December 2014
Peace, relaxation, beautiful surroundings, we were left to 'be'. It was all as good as it could be!
Cell group, November 2014
The time was entirely my own and I was left in peace. All encounters with the Community were warm and helpful. The estate was a joy to walk in, the chapels were beautiful spaces for prayer and meditation and my 'larder' was well stocked with delightful fayre. Thank you. (Perhaps a more focused evening prayer in the main chapel would be helpful?)
Private retreat in Linhay Lodge November 2014
On behalf of everyone at Exeter YMCA I would like to express my sincere thanks for allowing us to hold our annual staff conference at Sheldon once again. Our staff greatly appreciated the time they were able to spend at your centre and really enjoyed the wonderful facilities and high standard of accommodation available, saying nothing of the beautiful surroundings and grounds. We felt it was a really successful time away from our usual interaction in the workplace and it was a really good time for us to socialise and have fellowship and we have come back feeling refreshed.
Self-catering weekend November 2014
Having chosen to live as a 'hermit' for 3 days nothing prevented me from doing so! Warm, cosy, clean, excellent shower and hot water provision, tasty and convenient food, comfortable bed. (I would have appreciated a small table between the armchairs to place my tea/coffee/book while watching the birds and the rain.
Private retreat in Hen Run November 2014
A place of peace and quiet, where there are no interruptions, everything is thought of for you. A place of peace for the mind and body. A still pool to float in before launching back into the torrent. Thank you.
Private retreat in Linhay Lodge November 2014
Everyone was so caring. The room was lovely : spacious, private, clean, enjoyable with a balcony, en-suite with lovely shower. The little kindnesses from staff were great. The gluten-free food was very good: so nice to be treated 'normally' and not 'odd'. The general environment was great. All the rooms & facilities & the woodland & walks too. The workshops were very good : enlightening & fun as well as serious & thought-provoking. The 1:1s were invaluable and helped our decision-making enormously. The house rule of 'no clergy shop talk' was a mystery to us at first - how do we do this? But actually it removed so much stress and relieved pressure. Thank you.
12,000-mile Service week, November 2014
Sheldon - the Community, volunteers and the environment - continues to impress with its care, peace, tranquillity, attention to detail and high quality. This provides a much needed space in a very busy time as a parish priest and as our personal life has also been stressful with moving house.
12,000-mile Service week, November 2014
