Accessible Holiday Accommodation & Mindfulness Retreat in West Sussex
Kim & Ella’s Story
The Retreat at Ellasfield is the inspiration of Kim Bryant-Cuddis and is the result of the many battles she has fought on behalf of her daughter Ella, who has cerebral palsy. Kim has opened her own accessible holiday accommodation.
Kim knows only too well the problems associated with wheelchair access and inclusion within a holiday setting, as well as the uphill battle to maintain a daily routine whilst staying away from home.
It was this that led Kim to install a suitable hoist to allow all Ellasfield guests the opportunity to enjoy the wood-fired hot tubs. In the same way that a fully fitted wet room has been created and their Shepherd’s Hut adapted from ceiling hoist to taps, so people using wheelchairs can function as they would at home.
Kim explains, “I have a deep understanding of travel with a family member who has a disability, so if it is required, I am in a good position to assist guests at Ellasfield should an extra pair of hands be needed”.
It was also Kim’s experiences with Ella that drew her to Mindfulness.
“Living with disability has been a roller-coaster. In the early years I found myself in a state of ‘Fight or Flight’. Constantly battling on behalf of Ella, my mind would get caught in a loop about the future or going over the past, which I could do nothing to change.
It was through the practice of Mindfulness that I learned how to deal with negative thoughts, how to take back control and ultimately discovered a sense of wellbeing, happiness and creativity.
It was at this point I wanted to share everything that I have learnt, and Ellasfield was created”.
Many guests come to stay at Ellasfield that is set in the peaceful Sussex countryside of Billingshurst, to enjoy the lovely surroundings. Others come to learn more about mindfulness or equine facilitated meditation, both techniques that create a reduction in stress and help enable us to adjust emotional and often physical aspects of our lives.
Kim prides herself on every aspect of Ellasfield, whether it is providing a surprise plate of freshly made chocolate brownies and fresh strawberries or a personal welcome card with a home-made treat.
Ellasfield’s 100% positive reviews on Trip Advisor speak for themselves.
“Simply my happy place”, wrote Sasha Alyssia. “There is so much I could say about this little bit of heaven. Two blissful nights of total peace and the only noise was a horse neighing whilst we sat in the hot tub with the twinkly lights around us. It was like a magical garden.
Kim our host, could not have been more accommodating and makes the most beautiful yummy breakfasts and delivers to your door. We cannot wait to return. I could not recommend it more. We had the loveliest weekend and the cabin is gorgeous”.
