Tucked away in the rolling landscapes of the Lincolnshire Wolds, Shepherds Retreat at Rookery Holt is a place where nature and wildlife flourish. Spanning 13 acres, the land is a rich patchwork of woodland, meadows, and open parkland. 

More than 1,200 native British trees and hedgerows have been planted, creating shelter, 

food sources, and safe habitats for a wide variety of species.

A Haven for Nature

Shepherds Retreat is alive with activity throughout the year. Badgers dig into the banks, while roe deer, muntjac, foxes, and hares move quietly through the meadows and woodland edges. Chalk streams and natural springs create wetland environments that support frogs, newts, dragonflies, and water boatmen. In the Holt, a denser area of elm, ash, and chestnut, you’ll find squirrels, voles, rabbits, and ground-nesting birds such as pheasants and partridge. 

High above, owls call into the night, buzzards circle on warm currents, and rooks gather in their lofty perches.

The Seasons at Shepherds Retreat

Spring awakens the land with the explosion of blossom from the blackthorn andhawthorn hedgerows, producing the  sweetest of smells on a dewy mornings. Wild cherry trees follow with the first flush of colour after the winter rest, while birds build nests and the meadows stir with new life. Crickets and caterpillars nestle in the longer grass

and hedgerow areas, resulting in an ever-growing variety of butterflies. Summer brings long golden days where the two-acre wildflower meadow buzzes with bees and butterflies feeding on clover, daisies, poppies, viper’s buglos, birds foot trefoil and lupins. Dragonflies dance over the streams, and evenings are filled  with the gentle chorus of owls and crickets.

Autumn offers spectacular views of the changing season with the woodland moving from vibrant green to rich colours of amber and copper before the leaves turn brown and flutter to the ground, creating a cosy bed for wildlife to nestle into.

Winter is crisp and quiet, with fabulous frosts. Deer tracks line the meadows, and the night air carries the haunting calls of owls. By day, the stark beauty of bare trees reveals new perspectives of the land.

Here at Shepherds Retreat, every season tells a different story - a cycle of renewal, 

colour, and quiet wonder in the heart of the Lincolnshire Wolds