Marpa House is a rural meditation retreat centre hidden in the gentle hedgerows and meadows of Ashdon, near Saffron Walden in Essex. Set in a beautiful garden, it’s a peaceful escape from the bustle of everyday life.

Here you can transform the distractions of modern life by applying the wisdom of the ancient practice of meditation, contemplation, and awareness within the Vajrayana Buddhist tradition.

Established in 1973 by Kyabje Chime Rinpoche, the centre is now run by the Dharma Trust. Marpa House was the first Tibetan Buddhist retreat centre in England.

Any visitor interested in Buddhism is welcome and can stay in the reassuring atmosphere of the House. For those seeking a deeper meditative experience, the Retreat Wing offers a space of profound spiritual significance.

We offer a wide variety of programmes, events, and courses to suit the needs and interests of our students, ranging from introductory courses to in-depth retreats.

We are also home to a year-round residential community of live-in staff who help us offer a supportive environment for your practice.

You are welcome to visit for the day, for individual short or long retreats, or to attend our courses, events, and group retreats.