A journey in Buddhist Meditation

So often we define ourselves by our thoughts. Our thoughts shape our experience. But is that all we are?

This Meditation Retreat Day explores two ways of understanding the mind -

thoughts

and beyond thoughts.

What we’ll be doing…

The thoughts in our minds are often what we relate to as who we are - the journey of meditation starts with exploring through observation and contemplation how that affects us.

Then we look at whether the actual practice of meditation can give us a fresh perspective....

This retreat day will give ample time for practice sessions. Alongside this, there’ll be time for questions, and relaxation.

Held by Rigpa UK teacher Corinne Ewen, who has many years of experience practising in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition.

Whether you’re brand new to meditation or have experience, our Meditation Retreat Days offer a chance to explore and/or deepen meditation practice with the guidance of experienced Buddhist meditation teachers, and in a setting that naturally supports practice.

Retreat means to step away from the noise of everyday life and create a space for something different. This one-day event is a chance to do exactly that – to take some time out from the demands of our busy lives and reconnect with a deeper sense of presence, perspective and peace within ourselves.

“I would recommend these days to anyone; they’re so worthwhile and helpful.”"A really wonderful way into Buddhism.”“I arrived with the intention of finding a moment of peaceful presence. I left with my intention fulfilled. Thank you.”Meditation Retreat Day participants

Practical information

Sunday 22nd November 2026

The retreat day starts at 10.30am and finishes at 4pm.

Doors open 10.15am.

Open to all (18+)

No experience needed.

Under 18s need to be accompanied by a responsible adult.

Venue

Linklater Pavilion, Railway Lane, Lewes, East Sussex, BN7 2FG

TheLinklater Pavilion (https://www.railwaylandproject.org/) is nestled in the beautiful, peaceful surroundings of the Railway Land nature reserve in Lewes.

Lewes is highly accessible: a direct 55–70 minute train from London Victoria/Lewes (regular Southern/Southern services), easy A27/A26 road links from Brighton and the M25 for drivers, frequent regional buses connecting nearby towns and the coast, plus convenient cycling and walking routes for short-distance arrivals.

For information about the Linklater Pavilion and the Railway Land, see their websitehere (https://www.railwaylandproject.org/).

For more information on how to get to the venue, see our maphere (https://drive.google.com/file/d/1-VpprkBIUAjHEZTDIMsOZrFMjr0Vf5UH/view?usp=sharing)

There is disabled access at the Linklater Pavilion.

If you have specific access requirements, please make sure to let us know in the Eventbrite registration process.

Parking

Please note: the Linklater Pavilion does not have onsite parking.

Information on nearby car parks can be found on our venue maphere. (https://drive.google.com/file/d/1-VpprkBIUAjHEZTDIMsOZrFMjr0Vf5UH/view?usp=sharing)

Food

Refreshments will be provided in the break. Please make sure to let us know if you have any dietary restrictions (within the Eventbrite registration process).

Lunch: there are a variety of cafes, restaurants, and eateries within walking distance from the venue – or bring your own picnic! (If it's not too cold, that is)

What to Bring

A meditation cushion or bench if you wish (chairs will be provided)

A shawl or blanket for comfort

Water bottle and any personal items for the day

Notebook (optional) for reflections

Suggested donation: £40 standard / £25 concession

Financial hardship: if the above suggested amount is not feasible for you, please donate an amount that is affordable. All donations are gratefully received as they enable us to continue to run events.

Tickets are limited – advance booking is required.

This course is an in-person only event, and will not be accessible online.

Registration for this course is only valid through Eventbrite. Please do not book through allevents.in

Rigpa South Downs Lewes holds Meditation Retreat Days throughout the year

The retreat is hosted by Rigpa South Downs, part of Rigpa UK. We are based in Lewes, and have been offering Buddhist meditation courses, events and retreats in Lewes and the local area since 1996. For more details on our local programme, see our online events calendarhere (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1cC1ipp9LzlJ62li_aX2IcSykbu00VMpBKAp6lWQh3Pc/edit?usp=sharing) and our website here (https://www.southdownsrigpa.org/).

Health and well-being

Please note: meditation is not a substitute for medical treatment. If you are receiving treatment for a mental or physical health condition please continue your treatment and check with your doctor/care professional if this event would be suitable for you.

If you have specific support needs as a participant please contact our team at south.downs@rigpa.org.uk

Description supplied by the event organiser.