Established in 1973 by Kyabje Chime Rinpoche, 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 is 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.

Anyone interested in Buddhism is welcome to stay in the House’s reassuring atmosphere. 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 our students’ needs and interests, 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.