Business Details
Tranquil Meditation Retreats in Dorset
Bonhays Farm is a sanctuary dedicated to fostering inner peace and personal growth through meditation, Nei Gong, and residential retreats. Nestled in the tranquil Marshwood Vale of West Dorset, our venue offers a serene environment for individuals and groups to explore mindfulness, energy work, and holistic practices. Founded by Sophie Johnson, a senior teacher at The Internal Arts Academy, we combine ancient wisdom with modern understanding to guide participants toward deeper self-awareness. Our facilities include an indoor pool, wholesome meals, and accommodations designed to support immersive retreat experiences. With over two decades of experience, we prioritize creating spaces where stillness, connection, and transformation thrive.Whether hosting yoga, meditation, or energy work courses, our commitment to nurturing mind-body harmony remains central to all we do. We collaborate with skilled practitioners like Tony Stringer and Damo Mitchell to ensure high-quality instruction and a multidisciplinary approach. Our location, just two miles from the coast, enhances the natural beauty and tranquility that define the Bonhays Farm experience. We welcome retreat leaders seeking an intimate, supportive environment for their programs. Through regular evening classes and specialized retreats, we strive to make profound inner practices accessible to all.
Services
Meditation Retreats
Nei Gong Classes
Accommodation Hire
Catering Services
Wellness Programs
Highlights and features
- We offer retreats led by senior Nei Gong teacher Sophie Johnson with 20+ years' experience
- Our venue combines Dorset's natural beauty with purpose-built facilities for deep immersion
- We provide tailored support for course leaders hosting mindfulness and energy work programs
- Our meals and accommodations prioritize nourishment and comfort for holistic well-being
- We maintain strong connections to The Internal Arts Academy's lineage of practice
Services
Meditation Retreats
Residential retreats focusing on deep meditation practice within Dorset's tranquil countryside. Participants explore stillness, self-inquiry, and energy awareness through structured sessions. Our retreats accommodate both beginners and experienced practitioners seeking transformative experiences away from daily distractions.
Nei Gong Classes
Traditional Chinese energy practices taught by senior instructor Sophie Johnson. Evening classes combine movement, breathwork, and meditation to cultivate physical vitality and mental clarity. Based on The Willow System from The Internal Arts Academy's curriculum, these sessions develop internal strength and awareness.
Venue Hire
Intimate venue for wellness practitioners hosting courses in yoga, mindfulness, and energy work. Facilities include dedicated practice spaces, nourishing catering, and comfortable accommodations. Venue support includes logistical assistance and understanding of group dynamics from our own retreat leadership experience.
Accommodation
Peaceful lodging options within a working farm setting. Rooms designed to complement retreat experiences with minimal distractions. Includes access to shared facilities like our indoor pool and organic gardens. Accommodations support both individual visitors and group bookings.
Catering Services
Wholesome meals prepared using locally sourced ingredients by experienced retreat caterer Evie Vergano. Menus emphasize seasonal produce and dietary balance to support physical well-being during intensive practice periods. Special dietary requirements accommodated with advance notice.
People
Sophie Johnson
Founder & Senior Teacher
Meditation practitioner since age 15, senior teacher at The Internal Arts Academy, and developer of The Willow System. With over 20 years' experience leading retreats, she specializes in making ancient Nei Gong practices accessible to modern audiences through structured programs.
Tony Stringer
Meditation Instructor
27-year meditation practitioner focusing on diverse paths to self-understanding. Contributes to Bonhays Farm' programs with expertise in adapting traditional practices for contemporary seekers. Emphasizes personal exploration over rigid methodologies in his teaching approach.
Evie Vergano
Retreat Caterer
Experienced culinary professional specializing in nourishing retreat meals. Creates balanced menus using local Dorset produce to support participants' physical well-being during intensive programs. Collaborates closely with practitioners to meet dietary needs while maintaining nutritional integrity.
Daniel Johnson
Operations Director
Integral to Bonhays Farm' development since inception. Manages venue logistics and supports retreat leaders with practical arrangements. Combines technical expertise with understanding of retreat dynamics to ensure smooth program execution and guest comfort.
Questions
What types of retreats does Bonhays host?
We host meditation, Nei Gong, yoga, and mindfulness retreats in our tranquil Dorset setting.
Can I attend Nei Gong classes without staying overnight?
Yes, we offer regular evening classes open to local practitioners and day visitors.
How do I hire Bonhays for my retreat program?
Contact us via email to discuss your requirements and check availability for venue hire.
Is Bonhays accessible by public transport?
Axminster Station is the nearest rail connection, with taxi or bus options to our Dorset location.
What makes Bonhays unique as a retreat center?
Our combination of natural beauty, purpose-built facilities, and experienced practitioner support creates an ideal environment for deep immersion.
Are meals included in retreat packages?
Yes, our catering service provides wholesome meals using local ingredients for residential programs.
Reviews (6)
Louise Luminous
Jan 24, 2019
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I just hosted a weekend retreat at Bonhays, and loved it. In a beautiful, peaceful location, the Centre itself has been purpose built & designed with retreat guests in mind - and this shines through. The meditation / Group room is a particularly deep space, with a soft. enfolding vibe. The Chef Evie's food was to die for - one of the highlights - using seasonal, locally-sourced, and even self-foraged ingredients. And the heated swimming pool, a brilliant bonus. My guests left very happy, and I'm looking forward to hosting my next one in May 2019!
D. W.
Dec 28, 2018
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Just spent a weekend with around 15 friends at Bonhays. The property is in beautiful part of west Dorset, not far from Bridport and Lyme Regis. The facilities were great - clean with plenty of room for large groups. Couldn't have wished for better accomodation. Will definitely be returning.
San Kaya
Oct 30, 2018
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A beautifully appointed retreat. The tranquility of the location, the respect for the environment, the magnificent gardens made my stay memorable, leaving an indelible impression. Lovely team and lots of thought put in to running the place!
Mary Carpenter
Oct 26, 2018
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Staying in the magical, peaceful setting of Bonhays is such a wonderful experience that I return year after year. The warm indoor pool is a special treat: always spotless and well maintained. Nothing is too much trouble for the friendly staff and they work tirelessly to keep the accommodation and grounds clean, attractive and maintained to a very high standard.
Julia Chilcott-Coombes
Oct 09, 2018
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Bonhays is a magical little place that offers a wonderful space for exclusive retreats. Good yoga and meditation facilities. Pool is Lush.Food superb -cooked by the lovely Evie - your own in-house chef.Accommodation is well positioned within the lovely grounds and very comfortable. A little oasis ideal for escapism xx Highly Recommended.
Catherine Semark
Oct 06, 2018
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I've stayed here many times, and would not hesitate to recommend it. Set in stunningly beautiful countryside, it's a welcoming oasis of tranquility. Comfortable and spotless accommodation and a beautifully maintained pool. Bonhays is a truly special place.
