Retreats and Events on Holy Island

Lindisfarne dunes

Details of the Open Gate 2012 Retreat Programme are shown below. If you want to make further enquiries about any of the retreats we have on offer, please contact the Community Office.

You can see the Holy Island safe crossing times in new browser window here

celtic knotwork

Living Spirituality Programme

The Open Gate Retreat House, Lindisfarne

For more information about staying at The Open Gate, please go to our info page.

For information about Holy Island and how to get there, please go to our Holy Island page.

We welcome you to The Open Gate Retreats, whether you are an experienced retreatant or a total beginner we can offer you a range of programmed or personal retreats tailored to you. You may wish to arrange to come with your own group (maximum 12) to visit the Island together and have teaching on Celtic Spirituality or the Island saints. Please contact us to discuss your wishes.

Download the Open Gate 2012 Retreat Programme

You can download details of the 2012 retreats here.

Holy Island Retreats

Please note: the prices listed below are for the retreats only - they do not include accommodation. Costs of accommodation can be found here

Celebrating Saints and Seabirds
May 28th - June 2nd
£180

Visit Holy Island, The Farnes, St.Abbs Head and more, a relaxed Celtic exploration of the beauty and spirituality of this wonderful part of the world.

Leaders: Paul Swinhoe & Carol Few

Exploring Pilgrimage
July 16th - 20th
£180

Leader: Mary Fleeson of Lindisfarne Scriptorium

Exploring the Spirituality of Julian of Norwich
July 30th - August 3rd
£150

Leader: Gill Peake

Creative Journaling
August 13th - 17th
£180

Using creativity: art, poetry, calligraphy, photography and the inspiration and beauty of the island to help you reflect and pray.

Leader: Mary Fleeson of Lindisfarne Scriptorium

Celtic Wisdom
October 1st - 5th
£120

How we can become a land of saints and scholars again.

You can download further details for this event here.

Leader: Rev Ray Simpson

Depression
October 5th - 7th
£100

A gentle and thoughtful exploration of personal experiences of depression with an emphasis on sharing strategies that lead towards greater wholeness.

Leaders: Dorothy Neilson, life-coach and Enneagram specialist & Dr Ruth Booth, spiritual director and G.P.

Migrations, Meanderings and Meditations
October 15th - 20th
£180

Explore Holy Island in this beautiful and unpredictable season and let God speak to you through the wonders of creation.

Leaders: Rev Graham Booth, Carol Few and Paul Swinhoe

Encouraging the Anamcara
November 9th - 12th
£90

An introductory training for Soul Friends led by members of the Community of Aidan & Hilda

Prepare your Hearts
December 3th -7th
£180

An Advent Retreat giving you time to watch and wait for the coming of Christ.

Leaders: Dorothy and Rev Peter Neilson

General Retreat Information

Retreats include biblical and Celtic meditations, times of silence and opportunities to explore the island. Personal sessions available by request. All the events are in the framework of a Holy Island rhythm with optional morning and evening services at St Mary’s Church and weekday midday and night prayer in the Open Gate Chapel. Video viewing facilities are provided free in the lounge. We request no smoking in the house or on our patio.

Personal Retreats Menu

Beginner's retreat: A first session to discuss hopes and expectations and possible ways forward; further sessions as requested
Anamchara: A first session to map out a plan; a final session to reflect back.
Personally guided: Thirty minutes prayer guidance given daily
Silent: Meals may be taken to bedroom
Study: Use of our Celtic Christian Library
DIY: Using our Give yourself a retreat on Holy Island guide (see books)

Date Stamp

Updated 13-05-2012