We are honoured that each year an increasing number of students and young people choose to spend time with us in this beautiful place, and we invite you to discover how a retreat at Ampleforth Abbey can best serve you.

Young adults sat outside Abbey Church

Whilst at university, it is important to occasionally slow down, take time for yourself, and allow yourself grace. Within this centuries-old place of prayer, you are warmly welcomed to relax, reflect, and find peace.

At Ampleforth Abbey, you will find:

  • A safe and comforting space to reflect on your personal journey.
  • Time to be nourished within the beautiful environment of a living monastery. 
  • A place for peaceful reflection in the Chapel and our Library can be used for reading and studying.
  • Invigorating walks through the beautiful countryside where one can encounter nature. 

Without being intrusive, we will welcome you into our community and provide you with space to experience whatever is right for you on your unique journey.

If you're interested in coming on a retreat, please fill in the below enquiry form.

Make an enquiry

Retreats for Young People

Young Person's Monastic Experience Retreat

Our 'Monastic Experience Retreat Young People' is a retreat designed specifically for under 35's. This retreat offers young adults an opportunity to step away from the every day and live like a Benedictine monk for week (open to both men and women). 

Together retreatants will follow the monks' daily routine and join in group discussions with members of the community whose wisdom may help to enrich your life. We know money can be tight for students, so this retreat is donation only.

Students and young adults are also welcome on any of our other guided retreats that run throughout the year, and you can find out more about these below.

Guided Retreats


University Group Retreats

We are delighted to offer tailored retreats for university catholic societies and groups. We have hosted retreats for many universities including Sheffield, Lancaster, Hull, Sunderland, Leeds, York, Nottingham, Durham and Keele. The retreats are usually led by a member of the community and provide space to reflect and pray and to have quality time with others from your groups and societies.  

We would love to hear how we can support you in creating a tailored retreat for your group, so please fill in the online enquiry form or email retreats@ampleforthabbey.org.uk.