About

Meet the Court Family

Forest Retreats

Forest Retreats based at Hill Farm, Tintern is a family business run by husband and wife Hayley and Tom Court.

It has always been our dream to run our own tourism business and in 2015 after Hayley was made redundant, we saw an opportunity in the market for retreats in the local area. Since then, we have regularly run retreats in various locations until in 2018; we were lucky enough to find the perfect location and purchased Hill Farm, Tintern to converted into an Eco Retreat Centre.

Tom is a local lad and met Hayley at university in Birmingham over 20 years ago. We have three daughters and two dogs, we love the outdoors and are passionate about environmental protection.

Hayley and Tom Court of Forest Retreats, Hill Farm, Tintern

Hayley Court

My favourite part of running retreats is seeing the change in our guests from when they arrive after a busy week feeling frazzled, to when they leave feeling relaxed and full of gratitude and joy.

My passion grew for yoga after suffering severe anxiety after having my second daughter. Yoga helps me get out of my busy head into my body, helping me to feel more relaxed and in control of my emotions.

I also enjoy hiking, cycling and dancing!

Hayley Court - Owner and yoga teacher at Forest Retreats

Tom Court

My favourite part of running retreats is feeding our guests with tasty nutritional dishes and sourcing local seasonal produce. I also enjoy deepening my knowledge of trees and the natural environment through forest bathing

I am learning a lot about upcycling and I have enjoyed constructing Hill Farm – especially our quirky horsebox shower.

When I get some time off, I like to go bike packing with friends and spending time canoeing on The River Wye.

Tom Court - Owner and Forest Bathing guide at Forest Retreats

Testimonials

Testimonial by Georgina

Peaceful retreat. We took a Shinrin Yoku experience. Driving up through the countryside was a treat in itself, upon arriving we were met by Tom who was immediately friendly and relaxed. Our party was just the two of us and our old dog, we spent hours immersed in the forest enjoying our surroundings led by Tom to quietly connect with nature, our day was dry and sunny but would have been equally as enjoyable in the rain. We came away thoroughly relaxed. Friends asked us why were we paying for a walk in the woods when this can be done for free, to them I say you can walk for free, but this wasn't a walk in the woods it was a Shinrin Yoku experience with a guide knowledgeable and insightful, worth every penny.
Georgina
Forest Bathing participant

Testimonial by Aaron

If you’ve ever fancied trying yoga I’d strongly recommend training with Hayley. Her enthusiasm for yoga makes the sessions really good fun. She mixes traditional techniques and forms with thought provoking themes each week, which add variety to the practice. All levels of ability are made to feel welcome, give it a try and you will not be disappointed.
Aaron
Simply Yoga Student

Testimonial by Alex

Had a fabulous day at Hill Farm. Felt relaxed and restored spending time forest bathing, reflecting and connecting. Beautiful surroundings and scrumptious food. Thank you Hayley and Tom for looking after us and giving us a day to remember. A wonderful experience that I would highly recommend.
Alex
Wellness day team member

Testimonial by Nicola

Everyone had a really lovely time; you provide the best of team days and we are so grateful to both you and Tom. We have zero doubts that we will be back!!
Nicola
NHS Manager

Testimonial by Alison

Hayley’s yoga classes have been an enormous help both physically and mentally during these difficult times. I always come away feeling more relaxed, calm and positive and my flexibility has definitely improved. Hayley is a wonderful teacher and has created a lovely, supportive online yoga community which I am so pleased to be a part of.
Alison
Simply Yoga Student