Marpa House is a Buddhist retreat and meditation centre in Ashdon, Essex in England, dedicated to the advancement of Tibetan Buddhism.

It was established in 1973 by Kyabje Chime Rinpoche. The centre is now run by the Dharma Trust, a company limited by guarantee (no. 04332473) and registered with the Charity Commission (no. 1090628).

How Marpa House operates

A board of trustees is responsible for the governance and long-term sustainability, spiritual direction, and financial security of the House.

The centre is staffed by resident volunteers (a secretary, a cook, a housekeeper and a gardener) who receive an honorarium intended to reimburse personal expenses, and are aided by a paid non-resident House Administrator.

What happens at Marpa House

We are open every day. For those who wish to stay overnight, our charges are fixed at the lowest level economically possible. Course fees are fixed as low as possible. Student-led courses are offered by donation or at a small charge, and student-led meditation days are provided free of charge.

Meditation sessions, as well as morning and evening pujas, are held daily and are free of charge. Young Sangha and Family weekends are provided at subsidised rates. Those attending Volunteer Weekends have free board and participation in the House routine.

Those who wish to take practice further are encouraged to (and do) come ‘on staff’ and live within the community, receiving full board, free admission to all courses and a small honorarium to cover their expenses.