Oaksbrook is a nature inspired, wellness retreat at Brook Farm in the North Essex countryside. Brook Farm is home to Steve and Jane Gilbey, their two Golden Retrievers Jack and Barley, Janes horses, pet sheep, chickens and cats. Our dog friendly, “Herdsman” self catering barn, boasts spacious open plan living with a separate king size bedroom and ensuite, its own enclosed small courtyard garden and on site walks on our beautiful 20 acre farm.
In addition to the Herdsman barn we will soon be adding a Luxury Shepherd Hut which will be sited in a secluded wooded meadow, nestled behind a protective shelter of mature Pines. Wild flowers grow among the trees in little clearings. The Ryeland Hut, our first hut will provide a luxury Glamping experience.
Further huts may follow in the future so we have a flock of three! We hope to be adding a log burning hot tub and fire pit, picnic table and a central outdoor seating area. The huts will be our very own, hand built by Steve at Oaksbrook Shepherd Huts.
We are very excited to be creating this wonderful new venture. the site will be a “Woodland Champions Club” site. We are pleased to be partnering with Woodland Champions who share our ethos in creating new native woodlands. So far we have planted over 1000 metres of native hedge and in 2017 we planted 1000 trees to create a WW1 Memorial Wood in conjunction with the Woodland Trust.
Oaksbrook will also be hosting nature and animal based workshops and trainings, crafts, nature activities and day retreats. In addition our guests can enjoy a range of Holistic Complimentary therapies by Jane Gilbey. Jane is qualified in a number of therapies for people and animals and has her own business page dedicated to the animals @naturalanswer. Flower and Vibrational Essences, Reiki and other energy healing techniques, Equine Touch, Meditation and incorporating Equine Facilitated Learning.
The horses at Brook Farm and the other animals are the centre of Jane and Steves lives. Our lifestyle and our business are inspired by them. Our love of nature has also shaped the way Brook Farm has evolved in the last 12 years since we have lived here. We have created so much habitat for wildlife and that has been so gratifying as we now are seeing so many species of Flora and Forna at the farm. https://naturalanswer.co.uk
Sleeping arrangements
Shepherds hut for 2 people, Bell tent for 2 people and self catering barn.
Bathroom facilities
The Ryeland Shepherds hut has ensuite with shower. Bell Tent has own toilet, shower and cooking facilities.
Grounds and nearby
The village of Messing lies amongst picturesque countryside just 15 miles from Chelmsford and 1 mile from Tiptree, famous for it's jam. It is a small and charming village steeped in history. Colchester is an historic Essex town, Britain's first city and former capital of Roman Britain. Its rich history dates back over 2000 years and is ripe for exploring.
The village of Messing lies amongst picturesque countryside just 15 miles from Chelmsford and 1 mile from Tiptree, famous for it's jam. It is a small and charming village steeped in history. Colchester is an historic Essex town, Britain's first city and former capital of Roman Britain. Its rich history dates back over 2000 years and is ripe for exploring.
Colchester Castle, East Anglian Railway Museum and Colchester Zoo are popular attractions and Wivenhoe Quayside is an attractive tidal river walk along the Colne estuary.
The Chelmsford Mystery Treasure Trail and Cressing Temple Barns are good outdoor attractions.