Canterbury: Yoga with Goats and Sheep

Imagine practicing yoga surrounded by curious, affectionate goats and sheep, all set in the peaceful countryside of Kent. This unique experience is offered by Wildwoodland Retreat, and while we haven’t personally joined, reviews paint a picture of a surprisingly charming, fun-filled session that combines wellness with a hearty dose of animal cuddles.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the chance to enjoy yoga in a natural, farmstead setting with stunning views of the Kent countryside. Second, the affectionate, quirky animals—including a variety of goats and two Swiss Valais Black Nose sheep—who love attention and add a spontaneous, joyful energy. Lastly, the welcoming atmosphere, perfect for beginners or anyone looking to relax and laugh a little.

That said, one consideration is that this isn’t a traditional, serious yoga class—it’s more about fun, connection, and light-heartedness—so if your idea of yoga involves strict poses or you’re nervous around animals, it might not be your scene. This tour suits animal lovers, nature enthusiasts, and anyone wanting a break from the usual yoga studio.

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Key Points

Unique setting: Yoga on a farm amid beautiful countryside views.
Animal cuddles: Goats and sheep are affectionate and love attention.
Inclusive experience: Suitable for beginners and all abilities.
Relaxed atmosphere: No strict rules, just fun and wellbeing.
Additional activities: Goat and sheep walking available.
Price for value: $41 per person offers a memorable, pet-friendly yoga session.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Charm of Yoga with Goats and Sheep in Canterbury

This experience offers an unconventional take on wellness activities, with yoga taking place on a peaceful farm in South East England. It’s not about perfect poses or rigorous routines but about enjoying a light-hearted, joyful moment with adorable animals in a stunning natural setting.

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The Location and Setting

The session is held at Hawes Farm, marked by a white cottage with a yard and farm buildings, which is easy to find thanks to the “Wild Woodland Retreat” sign. The farm itself exudes rural charm, with sweeping views of lush fields and rolling hills, making it an ideal backdrop for a relaxing yoga session infused with farmyard fun.

What’s Included and What to Expect

For the $41 fee per person, you’ll receive an active session led by Hannah, who’s described as a warm and relaxed guide with a genuine love for her animals. The class includes yoga mats, and the focus is on laughter, wellbeing, and cuddles. Guests are encouraged to bring treats like carrots, apples, or cabbage for the animals, which adds a playful and interactive element.

The animals—Golden Guernseys, Swiss Saanans, Boer goats, pygmy goats, and Swiss Valais Black Nose sheep—are all affectionate, with some being unwanted dairy babies that have found sanctuary here. Reviewers have highlighted how these goats seem to naturally “join in” the yoga, leading to hilarious moments and spontaneous cuddles, which are often the highlight of the experience.

The Yoga and Animal Interaction

Unlike traditional yoga classes, this session welcomes complete beginners and emphasizes adaptability. You can choose how much yoga you want to do versus how much time you spend cuddling the animals. It’s a gentle, relaxed experience designed to boost your mood, reduce stress, and perhaps get a few laughs along the way.

Reviewers like Jana appreciated Hannah’s approachable style, noting that she “loves her animals very much and quickly opens her heart to you.” The goats, she said, “naturally ‘join in,’” making the class more of a social, joyful gathering than a strict workout.

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The Experience Itself: What You Can Expect

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The Meeting Point and Logistics

The tour starts at Hawes Farm, where you’ll meet your guide and gather in the yard. The activity lasts for a set period, ending back at the same spot, making it a convenient half-day outing.

Timing and Group Size

While specific durations aren’t mentioned, the setup seems flexible and friendly, suitable for small groups. The low-impact nature makes it accessible for all ages over 10, although pregnant women and those nervous around animals are advised to skip this experience.

Additional Offerings

Beyond yoga, the hosts also offer goat and sheep walking in their rewilded valley—a quieter, scenic activity that provides more time with these gentle creatures if you wish to extend your farmyard adventure.

Practical Tips for Visitors

Bring water or drinks to stay hydrated during the session.
Dress comfortably, preferably in casual, weather-appropriate attire.
Leave smartphones on airplane mode or in your car, as the host is electrosensitive and requests minimal phone use.
Feel free to bring treats for the animals—chopped carrots, bananas, or kale are appreciated and encourage interaction.

The Value of This Experience

While $41 might seem modest, the value lies in the combination of light-hearted yoga and up-close animal encounters. Guests frequently mention the laughter, joy, and relaxation that follow from engaging with such affectionate creatures in a tranquil setting. Given the reviews, many find this experience far more memorable than a typical yoga class, thanks to the natural, spontaneous moments with the goats and sheep.

The Authenticity and Care

Hannah’s genuine love for her animals shines through, making it clear that this isn’t a commercialized spectacle but a heartfelt sanctuary experience. It’s refreshing to see a place where animals are not farmed for entertainment but are cherished as part of the environment.

The Setting and Views

The farm’s natural beauty adds a calming backdrop, enhancing the overall sense of wellbeing. The peaceful scenery, combined with the playful antics of the goats, creates a perfect balance of serenity and fun.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for animal lovers willing to get a little mud on their yoga mats, those looking for a fun, relaxed activity in nature, and anyone who appreciates genuine care for animals. It’s ideal for complete beginners or those seeking a break from traditional wellness routines.

If you’re nervous around animals or pregnant, this might not be the best fit. But if you enjoy light-hearted, spontaneous activities, expect plenty of cuddles, and want to explore the scenic Kent countryside, this tour likely will brighten your day.

Final Thoughts

Yoga with goats and sheep in Canterbury offers a delightful blend of wellness and whimsy. You’ll leave with a smile, some new furry friends, and a sense of peace that comes from spending time in nature. The affordability, combined with the authentic love for the animals and relaxed vibe, makes it a memorable addition to any countryside visit.

Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, this experience is a charming way to connect with animals and enjoy a laid-back moment of joy amidst stunning scenery.

FAQs

Is this experience suitable for complete beginners?
Absolutely. The session is designed to be inclusive and adaptable for all abilities, welcoming those new to yoga or qigong.

Do I need to be comfortable around animals?
Yes, since the main feature is interacting with affectionate goats and sheep, it’s best if you’re not nervous around animals.

What should I bring?
Bring drinks to stay hydrated, and optionally, treats like chopped carrots or apples to give the animals.

How long does the activity last?
While the exact duration isn’t specified, it’s a session that starts and ends at the farm, typically fitting into a half-day schedule.

Can I participate if I’m pregnant?
No, the experience isn’t suitable for pregnant women.

What measures are in place for accessibility?
The description indicates it’s suitable for all abilities, but no specific accessibility details are provided.

In short, if you’re after an unconventional, joyful escape that combines nature, animals, and gentle movement, this yoga-with-goats experience in Canterbury offers genuine fun and memorable moments—perfect for a relaxing day out in the UK countryside.