Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Buddhist Retreat Centre in Ashdon, Essex
Marpa House, established in 1973 by Kyabje Chime Rinpoche, is a pioneering Tibetan Buddhist retreat and meditation centre nestled in the tranquil countryside of Ashdon, Essex. As the first Tibetan Buddhist retreat centre in England, we have dedicated over five decades to fostering spiritual growth through meditation, contemplation, and the Vajrayana Buddhist tradition. Our mission is to provide accessible, affordable spaces for individuals of all backgrounds to engage with Buddhist practice, offering structured retreats, daily meditation sessions, and community-led programs.Under the stewardship of The Dharma Trust, we maintain a commitment to preserving authentic teachings while ensuring financial accessibility through low-cost accommodations and donation-based initiatives. Our residential community of volunteers and staff sustains a supportive environment where modern practitioners can deepen their understanding of mindfulness and compassion.
Services
Meditation retreats
Daily pujas
Spiritual guidance
Volunteer programs
Residential stays
Details
- Year established: 1973
Highlights and features
- Established in 1973 as England's first Tibetan Buddhist retreat centre
- Led by experienced practitioners from the Kagyu tradition lineage
- Affordable stays with prices set at lowest economically viable levels
- Dedicated retreat wing with private meditation spaces and gardens
- Community-driven model combining volunteer and professional expertise
Services
Meditation retreats
Our meditation retreats provide structured environments for deepening Buddhist practice. Guests can choose between full retreats with complete solitude or semi-retreats combining private meditation with communal activities. The retreat wing features six single rooms with private garden access, dedicated meditation spaces, and traditional Buddhist practice resources. All retreatants follow established guidelines to maintain a supportive atmosphere for spiritual development.
Daily pujas
Regular Buddhist prayer sessions form the foundation of our daily routine. Morning and evening pujas are mandatory for residents, with additional optional sessions throughout the day. These communal practices create a consistent spiritual rhythm, supporting both short-term visitors and long-term practitioners in their meditation journey.
Residential stays
We offer affordable accommodation options in shared and single rooms with vegetarian meals included. Stays range from single nights to extended retreat periods, with discounted rates for longer bookings. All guests have access to meditation spaces, library resources, and the peaceful garden environment to support their practice.
Volunteer programs
Our volunteer opportunities include long-term residential roles and short-term event support. Live-in volunteers receive accommodation, meals, and practice access in exchange for service roles. Short-term volunteers assist with maintenance and events, contributing to the centre's sustainability while engaging with the Buddhist community.
Spiritual guidance
Experienced practitioners provide meditation instruction and spiritual guidance to visitors. This includes formal teachings from visiting lamas, individual consultations, and structured learning programs. The guidance supports both new and experienced practitioners in developing their meditation practice within the Tibetan Buddhist tradition.
Questions
What meditation practices are available at Marpa House?
We offer Tibetan Buddhist meditation practices including Mahamudra, daily pujas, silent group sessions, and structured retreats following the Kagyu tradition.
Can I visit Marpa House without prior Buddhist experience?
Yes, all visitors are welcome regardless of background. We provide introductory sessions and guidance for newcomers to Buddhist meditation practices.
How do I book accommodation at the retreat centre?
Booking requires advance arrangement through our secretary via phone or email. Availability details for rooms and retreat spaces are provided upon contact.
Are there volunteering opportunities available?
We offer both long-term residential roles (cook, housekeeper, gardener) and short-term event support opportunities with accommodation and meals provided.
What facilities are available for retreatants?
The retreat wing includes six private rooms, dedicated meditation spaces, prostration room, kitchen, and secluded garden for individual practice.
