Our Story

Welcome to Wagtail Retreat

Set within 20 acres of rolling Worcestershire countryside, Wagtail Retreat has been an integral part of James Deakin’s life since he was a child. Since moving in, over 25 years ago, he and his wife have transformed the property so that it is now a working, sustainable vineyard set within beautiful, landscaped grounds with stunning views of the Malvern Hills and lake.

James moved into Wagtail Retreat 25 years ago and used the property as his base, whilst working in his family’s business and looking after his grandmother. His wife Chloe joined him and they now live on the property with their daughter and working cocker spaniel, Bertie. Together they planted the vineyard, landscaped the grounds and built the lake. Three years ago, they decided to leave the commuter lifestyle behind and enjoy the views, countryside and slower pace of life by making Wagtail Retreat their main business.

Meet the Family

  • Person standing on a trailer in a vineyard with baskets of grapes and a tractor.

    Chloe

    OWNER

  • A red tractor with a driver and child in a vineyard, surrounded by green foliage and trees in the background.

    James

    OWNER

  • Cocker spaniel dog sitting on wooden deck

    Bertie

    PAW PATROL

Our Home

Wagtail Retreat is the perfect spot to relax and unwind.  It is both a working vineyard as well as a haven for wildlife such as hares, geese, deer and of course Wagtail birds. As a couple, James and Chloe decided to build the cabins so that other people could enjoy the beauty of their home – from the timeless views of the Malvern Hills, to wild swimming in their lake and watching the comings and goings of the local wildlife.

Countryside landscape with pond, lush greenery, small wooden gazebo, modern cabins, and clear blue sky.

Hand Crafted

Each cabin has been individually designed by the family. James has led the outdoor work, planning the orientation of each hut and building all the exterior oak decks. Chloe has led the interior design of each hut, sourcing paints from the Little Greene Company, wallpapers from Sandersen, handmade tiles and quirky interior finishes such as elephant loo roll holders! James has personally built the finishing fixtures and fittings so that each cabin is stylish and unique, with beautiful attention to detail.

A man working on a wooden structure under construction, using clamps to hold wooden beams together. A bathtub is visible on the deck. There's a metal ladder and a small dog nearby. The setting is outdoors on grass.

Environment

James and Chloe have developed their property to support and sustain the local environment and biodiversity. They planted a wildflower meadow three years ago to support bees and insects and have used sustainable, green oak for the decking. Each cabin has been insulated using 26 Welsh sheep fleeces, plenty to keep everyone cosy! The interiors have been fitted out using solid wood, sourced from Pontrilas Sawmill and the outdoor Victorian cast iron roll-top baths have all been reclaimed and refurbished.

Aerial view of a small island with a gazebo in the center, surrounded by clear water.
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.

The Site

Our Vineyard