A 12,000-mile Service is best used by allowing the programme to unfold as a journey through the week. You won’t be told what to do, there is no formal “teaching” input and all the ingredients are completely optional.

Morning workshops vary according to the leaders on any particular week, but regulars include fun with words, playing with paint and clay, relaxation, gentle touch, and meditation. Guided walks are offered on a couple of afternoons, and films on a couple of evenings. One to one time is available with an experienced member of the Community or volunteer team if you want it.

Guests are welcome to join the daily Offices of the Sheldon Community, and the week culminates with a *Eucharist on the Thursday evening.

A 12,000 can be a recharging of your batteries or a retreading of your tyres; a repair of your oil line or a replacement of your big end! If you want time to reflect alone and/or think things through with someone, and enjoy some gentle structure and social contact, then a 12,000 may be right for you.

For 12,000s the cost is fully inclusive, whatever resources you access during the week. Massage is often available, but we are unable to guarantee a session for every guest.

*The Eucharist may be celebrated by men or women of any mainstream denomination. If you have particular needs in this respect, please check at the time of booking.

Let us do the shopping, cooking and washing up for breakfast and supper plus a great selection of goodies to make up your packed lunches. Menus are chosen to keep adults and children happy.

Sheldon is ideally situated for lots of family-friendly tourist attractions within 10 – 15 miles, plus Exeter, Dartmoor and the coast. So whether your tribe like long walks, getting wet, high octane activities, or gentle exploring, there’s plenty for everyone.

Evening activities at Sheldon may include a treasure hunt, a barn dance, a barbecue, a quiz, or a concert in the open air theatre. Opportunities to be sociable (including the Fat Pigeon bar), but we won’t jolly you up or make you join in if it’s not for you. All-age bouncy castle and paddling pool also available.

Bedrooms are small but there is plenty of communal space, and adult-only quiet space too. A guests only kitchen provides space for making hot drinks or rustling up late night snacks.

Stay indoors or bring your own tent or caravan (indoor toilets, showers and common rooms). A fully catered holiday for the price of many self-catering ones elsewhere. Children from ministry families often really enjoy mixing with other children from similar backgrounds – no pressure, no agenda. Great sense of freedom and safety.