Firstly, I would like to share that I work for the wonderful Gibbs family, the visionaries behind The Partridge Retreat. Although I am not directly involved in the Partridge Retreat project, I have had the pleasure of watching its development from the sidelines. I was there from the initial discussions to the grand opening, witnessing its transformation every step of the way.
It has been a joy to see this idea blossom into reality. The journey has not been without its challenges—finding the right materials, navigating continuous rain delays, and the clever manoeuvring required to move the pods from their building site to the retreat location. There were moments of getting stuck in the mud, which necessitated levelling and seeding the entire site. The relentless research to ensure the best experience for guests, the interior decor that filled their home for months—all of this was done while Craig and Wallis ran their own businesses, cared for their magical one-year-old, and managed Wallis’s pregnancy. Their dedication and passion for creating a luxury experience at The Partridge Retreat have been truly inspirational.
Visiting The Partridge Retreat now, you would never believe the challenges they overcame to create this luxurious haven. From the moment you pass through the electronic gates into a spacious car park, you can tell that every detail has been meticulously planned. To ensure a peaceful, relaxing, and safe stay, cars are not allowed to park next to the pods. Instead, trolleys are provided to transport your luggage from the car to your pod.
The pods are thoughtfully positioned to provide private spaces where guests do not feel overlooked or intrusive. The focus has been on offering a much-needed luxury countryside break, not on maximizing profit by cramming in as many pods as possible. This dedication to providing a serene and luxurious escape from the demands of busy lives is evident in every aspect of the retreat.
Our Stay
How fortunate we were when Craig and Wallis offered us the opportunity to stay and test things out before their official opening. We mixed it up a bit: my husband and I enjoyed the first night on our own, a rare treat for some adult relaxation time. The following day, we picked up our three children to share the retreat with us.
David and I arrived a little late in the evening after dining at a local bistro just five minutes’ drive from the pods. Despite the late hour, check-in was simple. We called the gate to gain access, and our pod was well-lit, making it easy to find our way. We collected our key and settled into our pod without disturbing anyone else. We then enjoyed a relaxing soak in the hot tub, perfectly heated, while taking in the misty fields. The night was peaceful, and we woke early the next morning. It’s funny how, even without the children, parents still wake up early! Nevertheless, it was a lovely morning. We opened the double doors at the front of the pod and enjoyed the morning sun while I read my book in peace—a true luxury in my world. Breakfast on the decking in the sun was the perfect start to the day before we headed off to pick up the kids.
When booking a pod retreat for a family, space is often a concern. I can honestly say these pods are spacious enough. Our children loved their room, with our youngest claiming the top bunk, our middle son turning the bottom bunk into a den, and our eldest taking the single bed. Happy kids mean happy parents! I was impressed with the headroom on the top bunk, which is uncommon in pod accommodations.
To the right of our pod was ample space for the children to play without disturbing other guests. This consideration for family enjoyment without impacting other guests is a testament to Craig and Wallis’s thoughtful planning. My in-laws joined us for the evening, and we enjoyed outdoor games, a walk around the private farmland surrounding the pods which was a delightful surprise then a lovely dinner and glass of wine. We spent time bird watching, spotting red kites and sparrow hawks. Although we didn’t see many birds that evening, the next morning, we were treated to the sight of two red kites circling overhead, much to the children’s delight. Our last evening was spent in the hot tub, spotting animal shapes in the clouds and stargazing.
In Summary
Our stay at The Partridge Retreat was truly lovely. Even though it’s not far from our home, we will undoubtedly stay again. If you’re looking for a luxury glamping experience in the peaceful Essex countryside to escape the craziness of daily life, The Partridge Retreat is perfect. For those who need to balance relaxation with work, this retreat is ideal. As a busy working mum who home educates and is building a new business, I found the excellent internet a perfect balance for work and relaxation.
Living locally, I know there are endless activities within a short travel time. Whether it’s dining out, family days at Clacton Pier, Walton on the Naze for sharks teeth hunting, Hasty’s Farm, Wyvernwood, or enjoying cycling and walks, there’s something for everyone. A bit further afield, you have Colchester Zoo, Colchester Castle, and many more attractions. For quieter pursuits, there are stunning walks, Beth Chatto Gardens, local theatre’s, and brilliant massage therapist for an added treat. You can even explore Mersea Island and Brightlingsea by foot ferry or enjoy paddle boarding at Dedham Vale.
In summary, if you seek a retreat that offers home comforts with added luxuries, peaceful and relaxing surroundings, and proximity to wonderful attractions, you can’t go wrong with The Partridge Retreat. It truly is a luxury countryside retreat. My family and I look forward to our next stay.
Enjoy your visit!
Much love,
Kelly
