The Woodsmoke
A nature-inspired retreat blending creativity, wellness, and community in the heart of Purbeck.
Belonging to Nature
Amidst the constant hum of modern life, the need for balance has led many of us back to nature. The desire to feel connected, not only to our work and our community but to the natural world around us. At the intersection of this need for belonging and connection is WOODSMOKE, a new creative and wellness destination in the Isle of Purbeck. Behind the name, is the essence of woodsmoke - an unmistakable aroma, the scent of burning wood, the crackle of a fire, and the timeless connection between humans and nature.
“In a world that is becoming increasingly disconnected from nature, the scent of woodsmoke reminds us of our roots and our connection to the earth. It is a reminder that even in the midst of our busy lives, we can still take a moment to pause, breathe in the scents of the natural world, and find peace and comfort in the simplicity of life.”
A sanctuary for creatives
Tucked away in the woods near the magical oasis of Blue Pool, WOODSMOKE offers a versatile event and studio space designed for photoshoots, pop-up events, yoga, and wellness retreats. It blends perfectly with the canopy thanks to the clever design of the converted cedar-clad barn, serving as a haven for creativity and a peaceful escape from the chaos of daily life.
This stunning sanctuary provides a hub for artists, photographers, and creatives of all types, encouraging everyone to tap into the quiet strength of nature while creating their next project. Whether you’re seeking inspiration or simply a break from the norm, this space offers the ideal setting to reconnect with your creative spirit.
Create, discover, gather, and unplug are the pillars on which WOODSMOKE operates. Run by lovers of the outdoors, for lovers of the outdoors, it is perfectly placed to explore the wider Purbecks too - with cycle routes, surfing and paddleboarding options a stone’s throw away and hiking and rambling options in all directions south to the Jurassic Coast joy that is Kimmeridge, north to Hartland Nature Reserve and Arne and east to the quaint quietness of Corfe.
‘Come for the coffee, stay for the basket weaving’
Founded by photographer Myles New, WOODSMOKE was born out of a desire to create a work environment that fosters creativity away from the urban grind. “Our goal is to build a local creative community and offer a space where people can showcase their ideas,” explains Myles, who was born on the South Coast but spent many years in London as a food photographer for global brands and Director.
While not open to the public daily in the traditional sense, it’s always a hive of activity and the retreat has a bit of an ‘open house’ programme hosting lots of touch points to get involved; from local artists and exhibitions to crafts and wellness groups. “Come for the coffee, stay for the basket weaving,” jokes Miles.
WOODSMOKE is also home to pop-up events, launched in partnership with local businesses, that bring together like-minded individuals - group bike rides, seasonal retreats, breathwork classes, wreath-making, board games, and informal networking with coffee and cake. These gatherings offer a brilliant blend of creativity and wellness, fostering a community of people who appreciate the balance between productivity and peace, says Miles.
He adds: “Whether you're visiting for a photoshoot, attending a creative workshop, or simply seeking a moment of stillness, WOODSMOKE welcomes you. It’s a place to pause, reflect, and be inspired by the timeless beauty of the natural world. As the line between work and life continues to blur for many, WOODSMOKE offers an antidote to the noise - a retreat that embraces both creativity and wellness, showing that the two can coexist harmoniously.”
You can’t start a fire without a spark
Beyond its beautiful studios and curated events, WOODSMOKE aims to create a lasting impact on the local community. By partnering with local businesses and creatives, it offers a platform for collaboration, helping to grow a network of artists and wellness professionals who are passionate about what they do. Myles explains, “We want to show that creativity doesn’t have to be confined to a traditional office or studio space. There’s something magical about working in a space that feels connected to nature. It opens up new possibilities.”
A collaboration with Dorset Arts Week and Purbeck Arts Week 2024 saw WOODSMOKE transformed into an art gallery featuring work by four local artists: Myles, Will Story, Karl Read and Paul Barton.
Be part of WOODSMOKE
Want to join this this growing creative community in the heart of the Purbecks? Whether you’re an artist looking for a new space to work, a wellness practitioner wanting to host an event, or simply someone who needs a break from the hustle and bustle, WOODSMOKE is ready to welcome you as a community built on a shared love for nature, creativity, and wellbeing.
Sign up to the newsletter via the website and you’ll be updated with all the events and collaborations you might want to get involved with. Have an event in mind? WOODSMOKE is open to collaborating with local creative and wellness businesses to make your vision a reality.
Website → thewoodsmoke.com
