Advanced Meditation Retreat

This advanced meditation retreat takes place at EarthSpirit Centre in Compton Dundon, Somerset, England, a retreat and workshop centre in the Somerset Levels near Glastonbury. It suits people who already have a meditation practice and want to spend a few days in sustained practice away from daily life, in a quiet rural setting.

The Setting

EarthSpirit Centre sits in the Somerset countryside, an area closely tied to the legends and sacred sites of Avalon. Glastonbury Tor, Chalice Well and the White Spring are all nearby, and groups at the centre often visit them. The grounds and surrounding fields give plenty of room for walking between sessions.

The centre has two main buildings, the Main Centre and Little Earth. Little Earth is a self-contained eco centre with single, twin or triple ensuite rooms and a large, light yoga space. Retreats held there are fed with vegetarian meals made from fresh, home-grown and locally sourced produce, and dietary restrictions can be catered for when the kitchen is told in advance.

The centre runs a wide programme of retreats and trainings across the year, including yoga, breathwork, shamanic work, non-duality gatherings and meditation. Its long experience hosting residential groups means the practical side of a stay, from rooms to meals to quiet spaces, is well established.

Getting There

The nearest train station is Castle Cary. From there, plan onward travel to Compton Dundon by taxi or a lift arranged with other participants, and check the centre's travel guidance before you set out. Travelling by train suits the spirit of a retreat well, since you arrive without the strain of a long drive.

Before You Go

As an advanced retreat, it is best suited to people with an established meditation practice and some experience of longer periods of sitting. Bring comfortable, warm clothing for sitting and for walking outdoors, since Somerset weather changes quickly, and sturdy shoes for the countryside.