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Retreat to the House of Prayer

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Retreats

Draw aside from the noise and busyness of your daily life and experience some quiet to listen to God. We offer a silent space for individuals to make a retreat, whether for a Quiet Day or longer residential retreat, and to meet with a spiritual director. We also welcome groups for day retreats, meetings and residential stays. 

Programme

We offer a programme of retreats and days throughout the year. Our regular Individually Guided Retreats offer a silent space for prayer with daily meetings with a retreat guide. We also offer retreats and days on themes exploring Christian spirituality and prayer.

Red brick residential building with multiple white-framed windows, a prominent large bay window with diamond-patterned glass, and a blue sky with some clouds overhead.

The Christian Retreat

Inspired by Fr Anthony Receveur (1750-1804), the founder of the Sisters of the Christian Retreat, the House of Prayer was established in March 1993. Today, the House of Prayer is led by a community of staff, volunteers, and friends, who carry out the spirit and vision of the Christian Retreat through their work and ministry. Find out more about our vision. 

  • “The House of Prayer is extraordinary… I simply cannot express how wonderful it was. The format of the weekend gave ample free time to go for walks, to read, to paint or draw, but was also well structured so I felt truly guided… I didn't want to leave! And I shall go back soon...”

    IGR retreatant, March 26

  • “This lovely house is spacious, spotlessly clean and deeply peaceful. Everyone who lives or works there is kind, caring, welcoming and thoughtful. The food is delicious and every need is catered for. I highly recommend.”

    Individual retreatant, February 26

  • “A wonderful peaceful oasis, time away from the world with God in a beautiful environment – this is a home not just a retreat centre, and I was made to feel very welcome.”

    Individual retreatant, December 25

  • “I was made very welcome, the food was delicious and every need, both spiritual and physical, was catered for. I shall return. Thank you.”

    Individual Retreatant, June 25

  • “‘I liked the food, the quiet, the feeling of safety, nurturing, the sense that prayer is sewn into the walls, the warmth, the shared support, the meditations and prayers, spiritual direction, walks, comfort of beds and desk, the garden.”

    IGR retreatant, January 26

  • “Amazing, inspirational and very inclusive… it really is a great space which you have created.”

    Quiet Morning, January 26

  • “I wanted to say a big thank you to all for a fantastic weekend. It was my first retreat, but it won’t be my last. It has done me the world of good… God bless you all at the House of Prayer. You rock!”

    IGR retreatant, September 25

  • “Visiting and being at the House of Prayer is always meaningful and special to me as you have all the right ‘ingredients’ - beautiful space including rooms and facilities, excellent honest food, lovely gardens and good beds….and your kindness and care.”

    Ordering Desire, June 25

  • “‘I liked the peace and calm of the retreat house - it definitely felt like a "thin place" where I could be close to God… I particularly enjoyed the reflections in the morning and evening prayer.”

    IGR retreatant, June 25

  • “Your garden is restful, your staff are friendly, and the facilities were well-suited to my needs. I re-discovered my artistic skills in your Conference room while drawing by the window, had a quiet moment in the lounge with a cup of tea... I made time for walks along River Mole and the Thames, spent time in prayer and meditation, read a few books and wrote a lot in my journal. It was such a refreshing time.”

    Individual Retreatant, July 25

  • ‘I certainly felt close to God and a real sense of calm and peace. It was also really lovely to discuss with others our thoughts and feelings through what we read and pondered.’

    Lent Quiet Morning, April 25

  • “The sense of light, peace and gentleness throughout the house and all interactions. Keep doing what you are doing! You are truly gifting people!”

    Holy Week IGR retreatant, March 26

Take a look around…

Walk around the House of Prayer using our 360° tour. Wander in and take a look at our restful retreat facilities and accommodation, including our garden, meeting rooms, bedrooms and prayer room.