Non-Residential Weekend Retreat with Ajahn Brahm & Ajahn Canda

Imagine a weekend where you step away from the demands of daily life to sit in profound silence with a community of seekers, guided by one of Theravada Buddhism's most beloved teachers. This non-residential retreat with Ajahn Brahm and Ajahn Canda offers exactly that—a rare opportunity to deepen your meditation practice and study authentic Buddhist teachings without the commitment of leaving home for two full nights. Held at the serene Mercure Oxford on Saturday, November 21, 2026, this retreat is designed for practitioners at all levels who yearn for genuine spiritual instruction but need the flexibility of returning to their own beds each evening.

Ajahn Brahm has spent decades making the profound wisdom of Theravada Buddhism accessible to Western students, stripping away unnecessary complexity while honoring the depth of the tradition. Whether you're new to meditation or an experienced practitioner, this weekend offers a chance to learn directly from a respected monastic lineage while maintaining your connection to home and family. The retreat creates a container for collective practice—meditation sessions, dharma talks, and the quiet presence of fellow practitioners all working toward greater clarity, peace, and understanding.

What to Expect

This two-day retreat follows a traditional structure of group meditation, dharma instruction, and silent practice. Mornings and afternoons are filled with guided meditation sessions where you'll develop stability of mind and insight into your own experience. Ajahn Brahm and Ajahn Canda will offer teachings rooted in the Theravada monastic tradition, translated into language that speaks to contemporary life. Between sessions, you'll have time for individual practice, reflection, and informal community. The non-residential format means you arrive each morning refreshed and return home each evening—ideal for those balancing spiritual commitment with family or work responsibilities. Participants typically leave with a renewed sense of clarity, a deeper meditation practice, and direct transmission from experienced teachers.

About the Artist

Ajahn Brahm is a British-American Buddhist monk and accomplished meditation teacher who leads the Dhammakaya International Society of Australia. Widely respected for his ability to make Theravada Buddhist practice transparent and relevant to Western lay audiences, Ajahn Brahm has authored numerous books and delivers teachings that combine rigorous spiritual training with warmth and humor. His approach invites practitioners to investigate their own minds rather than simply accept doctrine, making him an ideal guide for this retreat.

Venue & Logistics

The retreat is held at Mercure Oxford, a contemplative venue well-suited to group practice. Sessions run Saturday through Sunday; please arrive 15–20 minutes early on Saturday morning. Wear comfortable, modest clothing suitable for meditation—layers are recommended as the hall may vary in temperature. The venue is accessible by car and public transport; check the Mercure Oxford website for parking details. Bring a meditation cushion or blanket if you have one (extras will be available).