Our Story
A Home That Welcomes All
The Oaks has always been more than a home—it’s a place of welcome. A refuge not just for friends and family, but for those in need of a safe haven. Over the years, we’ve had the privilege of opening our doors to extraordinary people from across the globe—refugees from Afghanistan, the Congo, Gaza, Albania, Rwanda, and beyond. Each guest brought not only their stories, but also a profound reminder of resilience, hope, and human connection.
Our love for community goes beyond hospitality. We also founded the Congenital Anaemia Network, a charity dedicated to raising awareness and vital funds for those living with rare congenital anaemias.
The Garden That Gathers Us
For many years, our garden has been a place of celebration. We’ve hosted fundraising garden parties filled with laughter, love, and purpose. Special events for patients and their families became annual highlights—joyful moments under the sky.
But as anyone living in Britain knows… the weather has a mind of its own. After one too many tented events “just in case,” we began dreaming of something a little more weatherproof—and a lot more magical.
The Birth of the Treehouse
That dream took shape among the trees: a treehouse built not just as shelter, but as a sanctuary for imagination. Designed to host gatherings rain or shine, it soon became something far greater.
Tucked beneath the branches, it became a creative hideaway. We filled it with wonders—AI experiments, handmade props, and little touches of fantasy. It was a place where creativity could stretch its wings.
An Unexpected Invitation
As friends and patients visited, they began asking if they could stay overnight. There was something about the snug charm, the rustle of leaves, and the sense of magic that made it feel like stepping into another world.
Their delight sparked an idea: what if we opened this treehouse to others, so more people could experience its magic?
When the Treehouse Went Viral
We applied for planning permission to offer it as a holiday rental—and then something unexpected happened. Word spread fast. Cedar Hollow, as it came to be known, caught the imagination of travelers near and far.
Today, a portion of every booking supports the Congenital Anaemia Network, helping us continue our mission of care, compassion, and community. It’s more than a stay—it’s a way to make a difference.
Growing the Magic
The success of the treehouse lit a creative spark. Why stop there? We began to imagine new spaces—each one filled with wonder, storytelling, and immersive design.
And so The Faun’s Hideaway came to life, followed by The Beaver’s Den—each one crafted with love, creativity, and a little help from magic. From ancient beams salvaged from the church where C.S. Lewis is buried, to talking mirrors powered by AI, every detail pays homage to the worlds of imagination that shaped our childhoods.
A Space for All
Whether welcoming guests fleeing conflict, families navigating medical journeys, or holidaymakers seeking a little wonder, this place has always been about connection. Each visitor brings their own story—and leaves a little magic behind.
We’d love to welcome you too. To share in the story, the stillness, the laughter, and the little slice of wonder that is Cedar Hollow at The Oaks.
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Please help support our charity:
If you are a patient who suffers from a congenital anaemia or know someone who might enjoy staying at the treehouse, please fill out this form. We reserve one weekend per month for the use of patients.