Canterbury: Yoga with Goats and Sheep is a delightfully different way to unwind while connecting with nature and adorable animals. For just $41 per person, you’ll spend an engaging session on a Kent farm surrounded by friendly goats and sheep that love attention and cuddles. Led by Hannah, a warm and relaxed guide, this experience lasts around an hour and a half, making it ideal for a half-day escape.
What we love most is the casual, friendly atmosphere—no pressure to perform yoga perfectly, just an opportunity to have fun and laugh with animals that genuinely seem to enjoy the company. Another highlight is the beautiful countryside setting, which offers a peaceful backdrop for this playful, feel-good activity. The goats and sheep are not only charming but also have stories—many are unwanted dairy babies or rescued animals, giving you a chance to learn about their lives and the sanctuary they call home.
A possible drawback to consider is that this experience is not suitable for nervous animals or pregnant women, so if you or your travel companions are uncomfortable around farm animals, this might not be the best fit. Also, it’s designed for complete beginners and all abilities, but if you’re expecting a traditional yoga session, keep in mind this is more about fun and connection than perfect postures.
If you love animals, enjoy outdoor activities, and are open to a relaxed, informal experience, this tour suits those looking for a meaningful, joyful, and somewhat quirky way to spend part of their time in Kent. It’s especially well-suited for families with older children, animal lovers, or anyone seeking a genuine farm experience beyond the usual sightseeing.
Key Points
- Unique combination: Yoga blended with animal cuddles on a charming farm
- Inclusive for beginners: No yoga experience necessary; the session is adapted for all abilities
- Animal sanctuary: The goats and sheep are rescues, offering insight into their lives
- Beautiful setting: Located in the Kent countryside, perfect for nature lovers
- Interactive and fun: Expect plenty of laughter and adorable animal moments
- Practical details: Mats provided, but bring your own drinks and wear suitable outdoor clothing
A Detailed Look at the Experience
When we first arrive at Hawes Farm, a white cottage with a yard and farm buildings, there’s an immediate sense of peace. The sign for Wild Woodland Retreat guides you to the starting point, where someone will greet you. Our guide, Hannah, is warm, welcoming, and clearly loves her animals, which shows in her relaxed manner and genuine enthusiasm.
This experience runs roughly 90 minutes, starting with a gentle introduction in the outdoor setting, surrounded by lush countryside. The farm’s location in South East England offers refreshing views of rural fields and woodland, adding a calm and picturesque backdrop.
What makes this experience stand out is how flexible and relaxed it is. You’re encouraged to participate in yoga or simply enjoy the animals’ company—there’s no strict rule that you must follow every pose. Instead, you’re invited to connect with the goats and sheep, many of whom are affectionate and love attention. As Jana said in her review, “Hannah is a super relaxed and warm woman who loves her animals very much and quickly opens her heart to you.” This genuine care is evident throughout the session.
The animals are a key part of the charm. The herd includes Golden Guernseys, Swiss Saanens, Boer goats, pygmy goats, and Swiss Valais Black Nose sheep. Many are rescue animals, with six of the goats being unwanted dairy babies. These animals are not farmed for tourism but live out their full lives on this sanctuary, which adds an ethical dimension to the experience. They are affectionate, curious, and eager to be petted or cuddled, which makes for quite a few memorable moments.
During the session, you might find yourself laughing at a goat attempting a downward dog or a sheep nudging your hand for a snack. As Jana notes, “there are lots of funny moments,” making it clear this isn’t just about yoga but fostering a sense of joy and connection.
The yoga part is designed for all levels, including complete beginners. Expect gentle movements or mindfulness exercises, with the emphasis on wellbeing and laughter rather than perfection. Participants are free to break away from poses for goat cuddles, which often turn into photo opportunities. The animals, with their quirky personalities, are very much part of the session, making it more playful than traditional yoga classes.
Food and drinks aren’t included, so you might want to bring some chopped vegetables or fruit for the animals, who love treats like carrots, parsnips, and berries. Hannah encourages visitors to bring nibbles and enjoy the moment with the animals.
Transportation isn’t provided, but the farm’s rural location means you’ll likely need your own transport to get there. The meeting point is straightforward, and the outdoor setting ensures plenty of space for social distancing if needed.
Cost-wise, $41 per person is quite reasonable given the unique experience and the lovely countryside setting. Compared to typical yoga classes or animal encounters, this offers a personal touch, the chance to interact directly with rescued farm animals, and a break from the ordinary.
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Why This Experience Offers Genuine Value
The appeal of this tour lies in its authenticity and warmth. Hannah’s love for her animals is palpable, and her relaxed approach makes everyone feel at ease. You’re not just doing yoga—you’re sharing a moment with animals who seem as happy as you are to be there, which truly elevates the experience.
The setting in Kent’s countryside adds to the sense of escape from urban life. We loved the way the fresh air, green fields, and gentle farm sounds complemented the laughter and relaxed poses. These natural elements contribute to a sense of wellbeing that pure indoor activities can’t match.
The animal rescue background adds depth—these goats and sheep are not farmed for tourism but are loved residents, many with stories of rescue. This ethical aspect enhances the experience, making it more meaningful than a typical tourist activity.
Value-wise, the session combines physical activity, mental relaxation, and joyful animal companionship—all for a modest price. The inclusion of yoga mats means you won’t need to worry about bringing your own, and the friendly atmosphere ensures a memorable, feel-good outing.
What you get: a chance to laugh, relax, and connect with animals and nature in a way that feels genuine and unscripted. For animal lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, or anyone seeking a gentle break from sightseeing, this experience hits the spot.
Who Will Appreciate This Tour?
This activity caters especially well to beginners and those unfamiliar with yoga, offering a relaxed, non-competitive environment. It’s also perfect for animal lovers, families with older children, or anyone wanting to enjoy the countryside in a meaningful way. If you’re looking for a photo-worthy, uplifting experience with adorable animals and scenic views, you’ll find plenty to love here.
Keep in mind, if you’re nervous around animals or pregnant, this might not be ideal, as the animals are affectionate and active. But for most other visitors, the joy of cuddling a curious goat or sheep while stretching gently in fresh air is hard to beat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this experience suitable for complete beginners?
Absolutely. The session is designed for all abilities, and you can choose how much yoga or animal interaction you want.
Do I need to bring my own yoga mat?
No, mats are supplied, so you can just arrive ready to relax and enjoy.
Can I bring food for the animals?
Yes, you’re encouraged to bring chopped vegetables or fruit, as the animals love treats like carrots, apples, and berries.
How long does the session last?
The activity lasts about an hour and a half, including setup and interaction.
Is transportation provided?
No, you’ll need your own transport to Hawes Farm, located in the rural countryside near Canterbury.
Are children allowed?
Children under 10 are not suitable for this activity, but older kids and teenagers who love animals might enjoy the experience.
What should I wear?
Comfortable outdoor clothing suitable for farm environments and weather conditions.
Is the session suitable for pregnant women?
No, pregnant women are advised not to participate.
How do I book and pay?
You can reserve your spot with flexible booking options, and payment is made later, making last-minute planning easier.
Final Thoughts
Canterbury’s Yoga with Goats and Sheep offers a truly authentic, joyful experience that combines gentle exercise, countryside scenery, and adorable animal companionship. It’s perfect for those seeking a relaxed, feel-good activity that’s more about connection and fun than perfection. Whether you’re a yoga beginner, an animal enthusiast, or simply craving a peaceful escape, this tour delivers genuine warmth and plenty of laughter.
The setting in Kent’s lush landscape, coupled with the rescue story of the animals, brings a depth that makes it stand out from typical outdoor activities. The relaxed pace, friendly guide, and the charm of the goats and sheep make this a memorable outing that will leave you smiling long after your visit.
If you’re after a heartfelt, quirky experience that offers a break from sightseeing and a chance to bond with farm animals in a scenic setting, this tour is a wonderful choice. It’s a perfect way to add some farmyard fun and a touch of nature to your trip in South East England, especially if you appreciate genuine, yet light-hearted, encounters.
Enjoy your visit to Canterbury and remember that sometimes, the best travel moments are the ones spent cuddling a goat or sharing a laugh with new friends in the countryside.
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