Introductory Weekend to Buddhist Meditation - 12 spaces

These very popular weekends are for those who want to learn Buddhist meditation (or need a refresher) and find out a little about Buddhism. You will enjoy the company of others in a positive, friendly space away from the usual distractions, allowing you to connect with yourself and others at a deeper level.

Each day of the retreat has a structured programme during which you will be gently guided in the practice of two traditional Buddhist meditations: the Mindfulness of Breathing, which helps develop a calm and focused mind, and the Metta Bhavana (development of loving kindness), a practice which encourages emotional positivity. When practised regularly these two meditations can have a transformative effect on our whole lives.

Rivendell is a Buddhist retreat centre. However, you don't have to consider yourself a Buddhist to benefit from these retreats. They are a chance for you to get a taste of meditation and Buddhism and to make up your own mind.

There will also be talks and discussion groups, as well as time to enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

These weekends fill up very quickly, so do book early to avoid disappointment.

Concession information

Unfortunately, due to this requirement to restrict our retreat numbers we will not be able to offer a concessionary rate. This decision had to be made as Rivendell’s current financial situation is of great concern – we had to close for most of 2020 and this has had a seriously detrimental effect on our finances.

We will revisit this decision again if things change later in the year, and we are allowed to safely increase the numbers (with people sharing rooms again).

Change to cancellation policy

If you wish to cancel, we now require a minimum notice of 4 calendar weeks before a retreat is due to take place, in order that a refund will be possible. All deposits are non-refundable and non-transferable in any circumstances. If you cancel and we can't replace you, you will be required to pay half the total cost of the retreat. Please let us know as soon as possible if you need to cancel, as there may be other people waiting for a place on the retreat to become available. It will still be on the basis that we can the fill your space.

However, if Rivendell has to cancel your retreat due to increased Covid restrictions, then you will be given the option of a refund, to transfer your money to another retreat, or to perhaps offer a donation.

Covid-Secure requirements

In addition to the confirmation email you will receive at the time of your booking, you will also be sent some Covid-Secure information about your stay at Rivendell. We have made many changes to ensure that Rivendell is Covid-Secure and we will only accept bookings on the basis that those who attend our retreats abide by the requirements of our Covid risk assessment.

NB Please be assured that should someone repeatedly ignore our Covid guidelines, we reserve the right to ask them to leave the retreat, with no refund, as potentially they will be putting others’ health at risk.  We want those that come to Rivendell to be confident that we are making it as safe as possible.