Join us for this weekend Magdalene retreat in the peaceful rural location of Hilfield Friary in Dorset. We gather at the time of the Celtic festival of Imbolc, as the sap starts to rise and the inward facing dark still energies of winter turn towards the coming light of spring. This is a time for reflection on the year past, and the receiving of intentions for the year ahead. What seeds, gathered in the abundance of last autumn's harvest, will we choose to plant on for 2025?

We are planning a varied program of activities and meditations over the weekend, and you are free to engage with as much or as little as you choose. A focus on Mary Magdalene is at the heart of our retreat, bringing us together, and guiding our reflections. Mornings will start with some gentle Qi Gong to awaken our energies for the day. Evenings will conclude with the still quieting of yoga nidra relaxations. On the Saturday afternoon there will be the opportunity for a gentle stroll along a short pilgrimage route ( about one and a half miles along country lanes ) to the nearby church of St Mary Magdalene. Reading and group study of The Gospel of Mary, sacred chant and breath work, sharing circles and embodied practices to help us engage fully with heart and soul. David will offer a simple introduction to calligraphy as a way to slow down and focus on sacred text, one letter at a time. Fay will lead us in soul-inquiry through drawing and painting, helping us to engage with felt sense. 

The standard cost for the weekend is £165 including all food and accommodation. If you are able, we are inviting 3 participants to pay the slightly higher cost of £200 for the weekend, for a larger bedroom (two of which include en-suite bathrooms) - and this will enable us to offer 3 subsidised places at £130 for those on a low income.

We ask for a £50 non-returnable deposit with the balance payable on or by January 1st. 

Arrivals from 3pm Friday with our first introductory activities from 4.30pm . The nearest train station is Sherborne, please let us know if you will be arriving by train & need a lift to the friary. Our closing circle on the Sunday will finish by 3pm & again there will be the offer of a lift to the station if required. 

All meals will be vegetarian, please let us know in advance if you have any allergies or specific dietary requirements.