What do I receive for a £700 contribution?
In appreciation of your generosity, every £700 contribution includes up to 7 nights in one of our new, self-contained retreat studios — peaceful, dedicated spaces designed for undisturbed personal retreat.
Each contribution includes:
- A 7-day personal retreat (or shorter, if you prefer), to be used in a single stay
- A private, en-suite studio with a kitchenette for fully self-catered retreat
- A simple, supportive environment designed for meditation, study, and deep reflection
- A voucher valid for two years from the retreat wing’s opening in 2026
- The option to gift your retreat to a friend, loved one, or fellow practitioner
Please note:
These retreats are designed for Dharma practitioners and others seeking sincere spiritual or contemplative time. While rooted in Buddhist tradition, the retreat wing warmly welcomes anyone drawn to personal retreat, meditation, or quiet time for study and reflection.
To preserve the peaceful atmosphere of individual retreat, bookings will pause during major events, such as Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche’s annual seminar — we’ll share available dates well in advance.
Because each contribution directly supports the creation of the retreat wing, vouchers are not refundable — however, they are fully transferable, so you’re welcome to pass your retreat on to someone else if your plans change.
How much does the project cost, and how close are you to your goal?
We’ve already completed planning, groundwork, and the structural frame. We’re now installing the roof, windows and cladding and preparing for the interior fit-out — all on track for completion in 2026.
Total Project Cost: £375,000
Phase 1 £70,000 — planning, groundwork, and the structural frame (Raised)
Phase 2 £70,000 — enclosure
The total project cost was estimated, with contractors in mind, at £375,000. So far, we’ve raised £70,000 through the generous support of our community — but the true value of what’s been achieved goes far beyond that number.
In 2024, the Peatland Retreat Wing was reimagined as a community-build in response to the incredible willingness and generosity of our sangha. Skilled volunteers stepped forward to offer their time and labour, allowing each donated pound to go further. We’ve also been gifted a range of in-kind contributions — from furnishings to Dharma items — that enrich the project while reflecting the deep collective care behind it.
This spirit of shared effort has enabled us to progress beyond expectations. Now, as we move into the next phase — enclosing and fitting out the retreat — every additional £700 contribution helps carry this shared vision forward.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to be a Buddhist to stay at the Peatland Retreat Wing?
Not at all. While the retreat wing has been designed with Dharma practitioners in mind — with quiet, simplicity, and deep practice at its heart — it is open to anyone seeking a dedicated, peaceful space free from distraction. Whether you’re meditating, reflecting, resting, or reconnecting with yourself, this space welcomes you.
Is the retreat wing accessible for disabled guests?
Yes. Several of our studios are fully wheelchair accessible, and we’re committed to making the retreat experience as inclusive and comfortable as possible. If you have specific needs, just get in touch — we’re happy to help.
Can I contribute on behalf of someone else?
Absolutely. This is a meaningful and personal gift — whether for a friend, loved one, or fellow practitioner. Just let us know their name when booking and we’ll ensure the voucher is sent in their name.
Are contributions refundable?
Because each contribution helps fund the construction of the retreat wing, they are non-refundable. However, your 7-day retreat voucher is fully transferable — you can gift it or pass it on if your plans change.
When does the two-year voucher validity begin?
Your retreat voucher becomes valid once the retreat wing opens in 2026. From that point, you’ll have two full years to book your 7-day personal retreat. We’ll notify you by email when your voucher is ready to use.
Are there any dates I can’t book my retreat?
Yes. Retreat bookings won’t be available during major events — including Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche’s annual seminar — to preserve the atmosphere of undisturbed personal retreat. We’ll share booking dates and availability in good time.
How does the Peatland Retreat Wing fit into the broader vision for Gomde UK?
The Peatland Retreat Wing is a key step in fulfilling Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche’s vision for Gomde UK as a living Dharma centre — Thubten Chökor Ling.
This vision includes a resident monastic community offering authentic teachings and guidance, and a future Temple at the heart of the centre. Together, they provide the ideal conditions for study, meditation, reflection, and daily practice.
The retreat wing supports this by offering peaceful, self-contained spaces where both visitors and residents can engage in genuine, undistracted retreat.
What’s the current status of the project?
We’re well underway. So far, we’ve:
Completed design and planning
Carried out demolition and excavation
Built the main structural frame
We’re now progressing to enclosure — with windows and cladding going in — followed by interior fit-out. Our goal is to open the retreat wing in 2026.
How much does the project cost, and how close are you to your goal?
The total project cost is £375,000. So far, we’ve raised £70,000 through the generous support of our community.
Every £700 contribution brings us closer to completion — and offers you a 7-day personal retreat voucher, valid for two years from opening.
Are there other places to stay at Gomde UK?
Yes. In addition to the Peatland Retreat Wing, we have other accommodations for guests including individual retreat rooms and solitary retreat cabins. Please visit our retreats page for further information.
What if I can’t contribute £700 — can I still help?
Yes — wholeheartedly. There are many ways to support this vision:
Make a donation of any amount — every contribution matters.
Volunteer your time or skills — from administration to practical help on site.
Share the project — telling others helps spread the word and build support.
Every gesture of generosity helps bring this peaceful refuge into being.
What is included in the retreat studios?
Each self-contained studio includes:
A private en-suite bathroom
An equipped kitchenette for independent living
A quiet space to sleep, study, meditate, and reflect
Large windows with open views, many with their own sunroom
Wheelchair accessible options available
These spaces have been thoughtfully designed to support sustained personal retreat — comfortable, simple, and deeply conducive to practice.