OUR STORY

Rooted in Family, Craft & Nature

A place shaped slowly, by hand, over 25 years.

Set within 20 acres of rolling Worcestershire countryside, Wagtail Retreat is a place shaped by family, craft and a deep connection to the land. The retreat has been part of James Deakin’s life since childhood. Over the last 25 years, he and his wife Chloe have transformed the property into a unique, sustainable vineyard and a peaceful collection of luxury cabins. Every stay is rooted in the beauty, wildlife and quiet rhythms of the surrounding countryside.

Tractor in Worcestershire vineyard during harvest season

Handcrafted from the heart.

James moved to Wagtail more than two decades ago with a determination to restore the land and breathe life back into the site. What began with maintaining the grounds gradually grew into a long-term project — improving natural habitats, encouraging wildlife, shaping the landscape and eventually planting the first vines.

Over time, James and Chloe built on that early work together, combining craft, care and intention to create a retreat designed for people to pause, reconnect and experience nature at a slower pace. Their shared approach now shapes every corner of Wagtail Retreat.

Meet the family

James

James leads the hands-on work, from land restoration, overseeing the vines, to building each cabin by hand.

Chloe

Chloe keeps everything running smoothly, from guest bookings to making each cabin feel like a cosy little world of its own.

Bertie

Wagtail’s head of security, chief greeter and lakeside supervisor.

Our Home

Wagtail Retreat is designed to be a place to breathe and unwind. The vineyard, wild-swimming lake and open fields shape the pace of life here, inviting guests to explore, rest and reconnect.

As a couple, James and Chloe wanted to create a retreat that felt honest and unhurried. A space where mornings begin with birdsong, evenings end under big Worcestershire skies, and time naturally slows in between.

Caring for the land

James and Chloe are committed to supporting the local environment and biodiversity. The vineyard is wildlife-friendly and managed with sustainable practices.

The natural lake has become a haven for dragonflies, birds and amphibians, while the surrounding meadows and hedgerows support bees and native plants. Every part of the land has been restored and rewilded with long-term care.

Built with Intention

Each cabin at Wagtail has been carefully designed and handcrafted by James. Drawing on his background in wood, metalwork and sustainable construction, he builds each space with natural materials, calm interiors and a focus on privacy.

Every detail is considered and locally sourced, from the orientation of the windows to the choice of textures and finishes, creating cabins that feel warm, grounded and deeply connected to the land around them.

James Deakin handbuilding the cabins at Wagtail Retreat Worcestershire

Every part of Wagtail Retreat has been restored, planted and shaped by hand. The vineyard, lake, woodland and meadows now form a peaceful landscape where wildlife thrives and guests can slow down.

Hand-drawn map illustrating a garden layout with various landmarks such as a vineyard, working farmland, pond, wildflower meadow, and footpaths. Includes labels for trees, paths, private areas, and directions to nearby locations like footpaths to a pub. Features a car park and notes restricted areas as private or no access. The location is Hallow, Worcester.

Our Vineyard

Our vineyard sits at the heart of the retreat and is home to four grape varieties: Solaris, Pinot Noir, Pinot Precoce and Siegerrebe. Cared for season after season, the vines bring colour, movement and life to the landscape. Guests are welcome to walk the rows, enjoy the views and experience a small part of what makes Wagtail so special.