Peak District Yatra - Walking Retreat 2027

Led by: Dayaloka and team
Location: Peak District
Deposit amount: £80
Age group: Adults
Total suggested cost (excluding deposit): standard: £330, supported:£220, donation tier (helping others to come on retreat):£640

The Buddha’s followers were ‘Yatrikas’ or wanderers; we will be evoking the way of life of the very earliest Buddhists. We’ll align ourselves with the most ancient traditions of Buddhism and follow the ancient trackways of Britain at a very beautiful time of year.

Come and join us as we explore the Peak District through the 2027 Yatra. The route will pass through mythic and beautiful places in the ‘White’ (limestone) and ‘Dark’ (gritstone and moor) Peak. 

The final route is to be confirmed, but will likely involve walking between 7 and 10 miles each day (shorter on the first and last days). Along the way, we’ll practice near Neolithic sites, clear limestone streams, and the heights of Mam Tor. 

There will be space during each day for reflection in and with nature, exploring our ancient, modern and future connections with the world. 

The Yatra provides the space to explore how spiritual receptivity (to all that is alive in us and in the universe) is supported by the five spiritual faculties (faith, energy, mindfulness, concentration, and wisdom. Through the yatra and a shared practice of journeying across the land we can begin to imagine the experience of the Buddha and his followers two and a half thousand years ago. 

The Yatra is part of the Buddhafield 2027 programme and its theme, ‘The Heart of the Lotus’. 

Some practicalities: except for a day bag (for wet-weather clothing and lunch), all camping gear and spare clothing will be carried by the Yatra support team. 

The starting point for the Yatra will be Buxton train station at about 1pm. Trains to Buxton run from Manchester and Stockport, and there are regular buses from Sheffield. 

The Yatra will finish on Saturday 8th May. There will be an optional lunch offered, but it will be possible to leave earlier if necessary. We will ensure that you are close to public transport links from Sheffield for your return journey. 

A typical day. Each day of the Yatra will follow that of a retreat programme: a morning meditation at 730; breakfast; pack down; a dedication to the day and some teaching; and from 10- late afternoon walking in silence, interspersed with breaks for discussion, rest, reflection and sustenance. After a shared meal, there will be a ritual or relaxation practice to close the day.

Things to note

• We have an extensive Retreat FAQ page here. Please read this thoroughly- particularly those questions related to walking retreats- and, if you have a question that isn’t answered, get in touch.