When does the Retreat start?
Registration in the Main Hall is from 15.00 on Holy Thursday. We kindly ask that you arrive no later than 22.30.
When does the Retreat end?
Guests depart by 15.00 after lunch on Easter Sunday.
Where will people stay?
Accommodation is provided in the Ampleforth College boarding houses. We will make every attempt to accommodate requests for boarding house preferences and allocation of rooms, however we cannot guarantee this.
Your booking options will be on the confirmation of booking email which follows your initial enquiry.
You will be given an access code to the boarding house but individual rooms are not locked.
The guest room allocation will be given to you during registration. To comply with health and safety and fire regulations it is extremely important that visitors do not swap rooms.
Do I need to bring towels or bedding?
Bedding will be provided but please bring your own towels and toiletries.
Is the retreat suitable for children?
Children are welcome, and we host a dedicated children and teenagers programme. Children will be divided into groups; Reception-Y3, Y4-Y6, Y7-10 and Y11-13.
All children under the age of 18 are the sole responsibility of their parent or guardian for the duration of the retreat.
For very young children, please could we advise that you bring your own travel cots and highchairs.
Are dogs allowed?
Dogs are not allowed in any accommodation and should not be left in cars during the weekend. Assistance dogs are permitted.
Will meals be provided?
All meals will be served on the ground floor of the Refectory Dining Room. Please let us know in advance of any dietary requirements.
Can I smoke?
Smoking is strictly prohibited anywhere on campus apart from the designated smoking areas marked on the map.
Where will we park?
There will be designated large car parks on site. If possible, drop families and luggage at the House you are occupying and then follow signs to the designated car parks.
Will the Abbey Shop be open?
The Abbey Shop will be open every day except Good Friday.
How can I get to the Abbey if I don't drive?
Coach transport to Ampleforth will be available from the Memorial Gardens close to York Railway Station. If you require a place on the coach either or both ways, please book in advance via the Retreat Team. The cost per person is £7.00 each way, payable in advance to Ampleforth Abbey Trust.
On your return, the coach will collect you from Ampleforth at 14.15 and drop you off at the Memorial Gardens.
What is the cost of the retreat?
Easter Triduum is funded entirely by donations. The estimated cost to the Abbey for 2024 is £215 per person. The monastic community is grateful for any donations given by guests during the Retreat. Donations can be made either in cash or by card to the Retreats Team in Main Hall. You can also contribute via the Donate button on our website.
Will the services and talks be live streamed?
We will be offering audio and video live streaming of services in the Abbey Church in order to share our prayer with those unable to join us in person. During the Easter Retreat, video live streaming will also cover the main conference talks, making them available to watch on our YouTube channel live and on playback.
Signage will be clearly displayed whenever livestreaming will be taking place.
Is it easy to get around?
Ampleforth’s beautiful campus is widespread and built on the side of a hill. There are many steps and inclines to negotiate and a fair amount of walking is required between church, dining room and retreat conferences and talks.