It’s time to reimagine what a business retreat can be.

Why Symonds Yat Lodge?

Let’s start with the basics. Symonds Yat Lodge is no ordinary conference venue. It’s a **former guesthouse turned exclusive-use retreat**, perched right on the banks of the River Wye in the beautiful Wye Valley.

It sleeps up to 50 people, with 25 ensuite bedrooms, a huge dining room (ideal for team meals or workshop spaces), a spacious lounge, a private bar, and a party/games room that’s practically begging for a pub quiz or low-stakes karaoke showdown.

There’s parking, Wi-Fi, and yes — it’s pet friendly, for those teams who bring an office dog or two along for the ride.

But the real magic lies just outside the door.

A Refreshing Change of Scenery

The lodge opens straight onto flat riverside walks, meaning you can take that brainstorming session outdoors, or go from coffee to canoe in under five minutes.

Set in Symonds Yat, one of the Wye Valley’s most scenic spots, it’s surrounded by hills, forests, wildlife and rolling countryside. No distractions — except the view. And maybe the occasional duck.

Teams arrive stressed and leave inspired. That’s what a change of pace (and place) can do.

Designed for Team Development (Not Just Meetings)

Whether you’re planning a strategy retreat, a leadership away day, or a full-company reboot, Symonds Yat Lodge has everything you need to make it memorable:

Productive Spaces

• The lounge can be arranged for presentations, creative workshops, or planning sessions.
• The dining room seats large groups comfortably – ideal for group meals or break-out sessions.
• Flipcharts, notepads, and high-speed Wi-Fi? You’ve got them. But also – open skies and fresh air when you need to think big.

Social Spaces

• The private bar is yours – mix your own cocktails, host a gin tasting, or just raise a glass to a successful quarter.
• The party/games room makes for an excellent after-hour venue – think quizzes, awards, or just some old-school table tennis rivalry.
• Light a fire in the garden firepit (yes, really) and get the team talking about something other than Q4 targets.

Team Activities on the Doorstep

This isn’t just a place to sit around with flipcharts. The Wye Valley offers a wide range of low-stress, high-fun activities to build genuine connection and boost morale:

Canoeing & Paddle boarding

Hire canoes or paddleboards and glide down the River Wye as a team. Whether you’re racing or just drifting, it’s a fantastic way to see the countryside – and maybe test a little coordination.

Guided Walks & Nature Hikes

Take a group walk up to Symonds Yat Rock (binoculars encouraged – peregrine falcons are frequent flyers), or arrange a local guide to lead a scenic hike through the Forest of Dean. It’s energising, team-bonding, and surprisingly good for sparking fresh ideas.

Orienteering & Forest Challenges

Work with local activity providers to create treasure hunts, map challenges, or GPS-based team quests. Ideal for testing leadership, problem-solving, and keeping everyone off their phones (unless they’re using the map app!).

Wellness Sessions

Fancy a more mindful retreat? Bring in a local yoga instructor or wellness coach for morning stretches on the lawn or guided meditation by the river.

Archery, Axe Throwing & Outdoor Games

Yes, you can channel your inner Robin Hood. A number of local suppliers offer mobile activity packages that come to you – think archery, axe throwing, and even mobile escape rooms.

Example Business Retreat Itinerary

Day One

• Arrival and welcome drinks
• Strategy session in the lounge
• Riverside walk before dinner
• Group meal in the dining room
• Evening quiz in the games room

Day Two

• Morning yoga in the garden
• Breakfast buffet
• Canoe trip down the River Wye
• Lunch at a nearby riverside pub
• Afternoon free for downtime or 1-1 meetings
• Dinner party and awards night in the bar

Day Three

• Wrap-up meeting
• Group photos at Symonds Yat Rock
• Coffee and departures

Flexible Booking for Business Needs

The lodge is priced based on 30 guests using 15 bedroom*, with the option to add 10 extra rooms for larger teams. That makes it great for:

• Small businesses needing space to grow
• Medium-sized teams wanting privacy and flexibility
• Leadership groups or board retreats

No sterile meeting rooms. No awkward breakfasts with strangers. This is your space – all of it – and it feels like a cross between a countryside hotel and your own private manor.

What Businesses Say

“We’ve never had a team event this good. Everyone came back relaxed, connected, and full of ideas.” Marketing Director, Bristol

“Much better than a hotel conference room. We worked hard, played harder, and had the best night’s sleep ever.” HR Manager, Cardiff

Your Next Team Retreat Starts Here

Symonds Yat Lodge is more than a location – it’s an experience. You’ll laugh, plan, connect, hike, paddle, toast, and go home as more than just a team.

So if you’re planning your next away day, retreat, or all-hands event, don’t settle for beige carpets and free pens.

Choose views, rivers, stories, and space. Choose Symonds Yat Lodge.

Ready to book your retreat?

📍 Symonds Yat, Wye Valley

💼 Sleeps 50 | 25 ensuite rooms | Private hire only

📧 Contact us today for availability and rates:

Big House Holiday Lets

w: bhhl.co.uk

e: enquiries@bhhl.co.uk

t: 01600 732050