Dare to slow down. 

Come and relax alongside others who are working hard to help the world we grew up in fall apart more gracefully, and need a break.

Children learn that the first thing to do in a crisis is don’t panic. In these times, it is an art. August is the perfect time to practice. We can break the spell of frantic-ness with beauty and wind-swept beaches, meditation and craft beer. There is no better place to practice than Bidston Observatory Artistic Research Centre which is made to allow artists and explorers to spend time together sustainably.

While relaxing, we can also ask some of the big questions like:

  • How do we really work together? What does collaboration mean?

  • How do we hold a sense of urgency without rushing to solutions?

  • What kind of network and container do we want to be a part of in listening and reponding to these stormy times together?

This is also a child and dog-friendly space. Scroll down for practicalities. Sign up below!

Practicalities

There will be time to work (5-6 hours a day being a comfortable amount). Most food will be vegan but you are welcome to supplement as you wish – there is a big tesco within walking distance. At Bidston Observatory most rooms are shared, though beds have their own curtain dividers. Unless you are affected by insomnia or a terrible snorer, you should assume you will be sharing a room with other residency participants.

When: August 21-28. Please plan to attend the entirety of this gathering.

Where: Bidston Observatory, the Wirral

Costs: Covering organisers’ time, helping to cover someone else’s place £500+ | Covering food, board and some organisers’ time £400 | Covering costs £320

Tentative schedule (can change also based on participants’ needs):

  • 7-8 am: optional meditation 

  • 8-9 am: optional breakfast

  • 9:30-10:15 am: collective care for cooking, cleaning, gardening

  • 10:15-11:30am open space

  • 11:30 am-1 pm: own time

  • 1-2 pm: buffet lunch and dishes

  • 2-7 pm: own time/excursion (we love going out to nearby beaches, a beautiful cemetery arboretum, or even just beautiful Bidston hill)

  • 7-8 pm: table dinner (where we often encourage dialogue on the residency topic) and dishes

We want to create a space that is safe, supportive, and nourishing for everyone. By joining this gathering you agree to:

1. Respect for the Group & Space

  •  Engage with kindness, openness, and confidentiality—what is shared in the group stays in the group.

  • Respect different perspectives, backgrounds, and spiritual traditions.

  • Participate to the best of your ability, while honouring your own boundaries.

2. Wellbeing & Responsibility

  • This residency is not a therapy space. While deep emotions may arise, you are responsible for your own wellbeing.

  • If you are struggling, please reach out to a facilitator, but know that we are not trained mental health professionals.

  • You are responsible for your own physical and emotional safety during the retreat, including any time spent in nature or engaging in activities.

  • We will not take responsibility for any substance use.

3. Logistics & Practicalities

  •  Accommodation and meals are included, and we will do our best to meet dietary needs (all meals are vegetarian) - you must let us know of any allergies in advance.

  • You are responsible for arranging your own travel to and from the retreat.

  • Deposits are non-refundable, and cancellations within 14 days of the retreat will not be eligible for a refund (unless in exceptional circumstances).