WEEKEND MEDITATION RETREAT

During this two-day retreat, you will learn how to meditate in a calm and supportive environment guided by a Buddhist monk. We practice the Middle Way technique (widely known in Thailand as the Dhammakaya approach), which places a strong emphasis on comfort and natural relaxation—allowing the mind to settle gently into stillness and inner peace.

Sessions include both guided meditation and practical Dhamma teaching. Individual coaching is also available during practice sessions or upon personal request to help you fine-tune your technique. Participants are warmly encouraged to ask questions regarding meditation, practical application in daily life, and general Buddhist principles.

People of all faiths, backgrounds, or with no prior religious affiliation are warmly welcome.

• Minimum age: 18 years old.

• Requirements: Participants should be in good general health, open to simple and modest temple surroundings, and bring a sincere desire to learn within our structured schedule.

• About us: This retreat is hosted by a UK-registered Buddhist charity dedicated to promoting world peace through inner peace.

Dhammakaya Meditation Centre of Newcastle

Church Street, Hebburn, NE31 1DR

The centre is conveniently located within a 5-minute walk of Hebburn Metro Station.

Non-Residential Retreat (Limited Dormitory Available for Special Cases)

This is primarily a daily-commute retreat. If long-distance travel or the cost of local accommodation presents a genuine barrier, you may enquire about a space in our basic, same-sex shared dormitories.

Please note:

• Approval Required: Spaces are strictly limited, subject to review, and must be arranged with us in advance.

• Meals: Retreat lunches are provided for all participants. Breakfast and dinner are not guaranteed (subject to volunteer kitchen availability), so please come prepared to self-cater if needed.

• Evenings: Optional evening meditation or Q&A may take place depending on the teaching monk’s availability.

• Conduct: Strictly no alcohol, recreational substances, smoking, or vaping anywhere on the property. Quiet hours must be observed at night.

If you face exceptional circumstances and require overnight accommodation, please contact our team well in advance after registering to enquire about availability.

October Retreat:

• Saturday, 24th October 2026: Weekend Meditation Day One

• Sunday, 25th October 2026: Weekend Meditation Day Two

Day One

• 09:30 – Arrival, Tea & Coffee

• 09:45 – Welcome & Orientation

• 10:00 – Morning Meditation & Teaching

• 11:30 – Lunch & Mindful Personal Time

• 13:00 – Gentle Mindful Stretching (Video guidance)

• 13:20 – Short Break

• 13:30 – Afternoon Session & Q&A

• 15:00 – Close of Day One

Day Two

• 09:30 – Arrival, Tea & Coffee

• 09:45 – Brief Orientation (for new/single-day joiners)

• 10:00 – Morning Meditation & Teaching

• 11:30 – Lunch & Mindful Personal Time

• 13:00 – Gentle Mindful Stretching (Video guidance)

• 13:20 – Short Break

• 13:30 – Afternoon Session & Q&A

• 15:00 – Close of Retreat

*Schedule is subject to slight adjustments on the day if required.

• Registration (£10/day): Covers your lunch, tea, and refreshments, while helping us prevent food waste and unused bookings.

• Supporting the Temple (Optional): The £10 fee only covers catering. Our day-to-day running costs—including heating, lighting, water, and venue upkeep—depend entirely on voluntary donations (Dāna).

• How to contribute further: If you would like to support our charity, you are welcome to include an additional donation when booking, or donate in person on the day (cash and contactless card accepted).

• Concessions: If this fee is outside your current means, please contact us in confidence—financial circumstances should not be a barrier to practice.

Payment must be made in full prior to the programme to confirm your place.

• Cash: In person at the centre in Hebburn

• Card: Debit/Credit card reader at the centre

• Bank Transfer:

  • Account Name: Phra Karucha Sripramote

  • Bank: Barclays

  • Sort Code: 20-80-47

  • Account No: 23068293

  • Reference: Med-[YOUR SURNAME]
    (We use the organiser’s dedicated account to ensure direct and prompt verification).

Clothing:

• Loose, comfortable, and modest clothing (preferably white or light colours).

• Warm layers and warm socks (especially during autumn/winter, as shoes are removed indoors).

• Please note: Sleeveless tops, shorts, and revealing or transparent clothing are not suitable.

Essentials:

• Refillable water bottle or travel mug.

• Any personal medication you require.

For Approved Overnight Guests:

• Personal toiletries and towel.

• Any personal comfort items required for shared dormitory living.

Please note that photographs and short video clips may be taken during the retreat for charitable archive and outreach purposes. If you prefer not to be included in photos, please let a member of our team know upon arrival. 

• Notice given at least 24 hours in advance: Full refund.

• Late cancellations: Partial refund available upon request.

• Cancellation by the organiser: Full refund provided immediately.

For any questions or further enquiries, please feel free to contact us. We look forward to welcoming you to the retreat!