Relaxing Away Retreat at Nagarjuna KMC

Home » Courses & Retreats » Nagarjuna Away Retreat – Awakening the Heart: Transforming Life’s Challenges

Awakening the Heart: Transforming Life’s Challenges

Fri 20 - Sun 22 Mar 2026

Nagarjuna KMC, Thornby Hall, Northamptonshire

With Kadam John & Kadam Ai Peng McBretney

Life inevitably brings challenges—stress, conflict, or uncertainty can leave us feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or stuck. This away retreat offers a unique opportunity to step out of daily routines and cultivate inner strength, resilience, and a heart-centred perspective.

Through guided Buddhist meditations and practical teachings, you will learn how to:

Transform life’s challenges into opportunities for growth
Cultivate love, compassion and patience
Reconnect with your inner strength and resilience

Suitable for all levels from beginners to senior practitioners

Booking information

Limited Accommodation

Set in the tranquil surroundings of Nagarjuna KMC in Northamptonshire, within easy reach of London, this retreat combines the benefits of focused meditation with the restorative power of being in a calm, supportive environment. Through guided meditations, teachings, discussion and quiet reflection, this weekend retreat will leave you feeling refreshed, inspired, and better equipped to face life’s ups and downs with clarity and warmth.

Everyone welcome

Whether you’re new to Buddhist meditation or an experienced practitioner, this retreat offers a precious opportunity to step away from distractions and immerse yourself in wisdom and inner peace.

About the teachers

Kadam John McBretney is the Resident Teacher of Heruka KMC and has been studying and practising Kadampa Buddhism for over 30 years. Known for his joyful and down-to-earth style, he has a rare ability to make even the deepest subjects clear and accessible, guiding students effortlessly to develop lasting inner peace and wisdom.

Kadam Ai Peng McBretney is the Resident Teacher of Duldzin Dragpa KBC and has trained in Kadampa Buddhism for many years under the guidance of Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche. Drawing from her own experience of applying Buddha’s advice in daily life, she shares the teachings in a warm, practical way that helps people see how to bring peace, happiness, and meaning into their everyday activities.

About the venue

Nagarjuna Kadampa Meditation Centre at Thornby Hall is set in beautiful grounds. It offers a peaceful sanctuary where modern Buddhists — and seekers of peace — immerse themselves in meditation, learn timeless wisdom, and recharge both mind and spirit.

Travelling to Nagarjuna KMC

Address: Thornby Hall,
Naseby Road
Thornby
Northamptonshire NN6 8SW

Directions:

From the A14, exit at Junction 1 and turn right towards Thornby. In Thornby, turn left at The Red Lion pub. The entrance to Thornby Hall is 100 meters on the left. There is car parking in the grounds.

Unfortunately, there is no bus service running to and from Thornby. The closest train stations are Northampton, Rugby, or Market Harborough. A taxi from there to the Centre costs approximately £15 – £20.

Book Now - Limited Accommodation

Single Ensuite: £290
Single: £260
Twin Ensuite (per room for two people sharing): £540
Twin (per room for two people sharing): £480
Male Dormitory: £210
Female Dormitory: £210
Campervan: (not including electrical hook up) £200
Campervan additional person sharing campervan: £165
Non-residential: £115

All prices include breakfast, lunch and supper, except non-residential, which includes only lunch and supper.
Vegetarian or vegan meals options are available. Please select which option you would like and add this to your booking.

Cancellations: Cancellations up to 4 weeks prior to the retreat will receive a full refund minus a 10% admin fee. Cancellations up to 1 week before receive 50% refund. No refund for cancellations made in the seven days immediately prior to the retreat.

Any Questions? Please email us at epc@meditateinlondon.org.

£290.00

£260.00

£540.00

£480.00

£210.00

£200.00

£165.00

£115.00

Provisional Schedule

Friday 20 March

3.00pm Registration opens
6.00pm Supper
7.15pm – 8.45pm Introduction

Saturday 21 March

9.15am – 10.15am Session 2
11.30am – 12.30pm Session 3
1.00pm Lunch
3.00pm – 4.00pm Session 4
5.00pm – 6.00pm Session 5
6.00pm Supper
7.30pm – 8.45pm Wishfulfilling Jewel with Tsog