The Quiet Retreat Guide: What Actually Happens at an Inclusive Retreat

“Do I have to be social the whole time?”

No. You don’t have to be social the whole time, or join in with every activity, for that matter.

If you’re curious about a retreat but wondering what happens between arriving and going home, you’re not alone. A new place, unfamiliar people and a full programme can sound like a lot, especially if you’re introverted, late-diagnosed or neurodivergent. So let me tell you about what you sign up for on a Quiet Community retreat.

I’ve planned Quiet Community’s next small-group retreat at Brownber Hall in Cumbria, from 20–23 April 2027. It’s four days and three nights in a country house between the Yorkshire Dales and the Lake District, with space for creativity, rest and connection, at your own pace.

Here’s a practical look at what to expect.

First, the important bit: everything is optional

There are no compulsory activities and no awkward icebreakers. You can join an activity, watch for a while, take a break, or do your own thing. You won’t be expected to explain why you’re sitting one out.

That choice is at the heart of how I planned the retreat. Neurodivergent people (or anyone really) don’t all have the same needs or preferences; what feels calming to one person may not suit another. So I'm creating a welcoming space, with judgement-free choice at its heart, to spend a few days with other people who also value quiet, creativity or a gentler kind of connection. You don’t need to have a diagnosis to come, and anyone who wants a quieter kind of retreat is welcome — this is an inclusive space in the fullest sense, where different needs are anticipated and asking is the norm, rather than accommodated as an afterthought.

What might the days look like?

There’ll be a range of optional activities, with different ways to take part. You might try creative writing, painting, journalling and sticker making, or join a knit and crochet circle. There’ll also be journalling for wellness and mini meditations.

If movement appeals, morning vinyasa flow yoga and evening yin yoga are on offer. You’re welcome to take part in a way that feels comfortable for you, or skip a session entirely.

You might also join us for board games, a neurodiverse circle, stargazing with hot chocolate, movie night, or time around the fire pit.

There’s also a retreat WhatsApp group. Its main benefit is that it lets you get to know people a little before you arrive, so the first day feels less like meeting strangers. It’s one way to connect with the group, not a requirement to keep chatting.

There isn’t one right way to spend your time. Perhaps you’ll find a favourite activity and return to it. Perhaps you’ll enjoy a walk, a quiet spell in the house or a conversation over a cup of tea. You can decide as you go.

A country house, with room to settle in

Brownber Hall is a modern country house near the Howgill Fells. It’s a setting for slowing down and getting a little space from everyday routines, amongst the quiet of the countryside.

The retreat runs from Tuesday afternoon to Friday morning. You can choose between a private room (standard or deluxe) or a shared twin room - all rooms are ensuite! Wondering about how the shared room works? Bring a friend or opt for the make a friend option, where we’ll match you with another guest. It’s also completely normal to come solo — most guests do, so you’ll be in good company from the moment you arrive.

If having your own space matters to you, it may help to look at the room options early. You can find more details and pictures on the retreat page.

Food, fresh air and practical details

Meals are vegetarian and include buffet-style brunches, homemade evening meals, snacks and bean-to-cup coffee. No alcohol is provided, so the retreat has a sober atmosphere.

There are lovely things to explore nearby, too. You could take the two-mile walk to the pub, browse village shops and secondhand books, or look into wild swimming. The area’s dark skies make stargazing a tempting option if the weather plays along. And if the evening’s best plan is a warm drink by the fire pit, that’s a good plan too.

A couple of practical details are worth knowing before you decide: phone signal is limited, although WiFi is available. Transport to Brownber Hall isn’t included in the retreat booking, so you’ll need to arrange your journey separately. Getting there by train is possible — the nearest station isn’t within walking distance of the house, but a taxi for the last leg is something we can help arrange. Car sharing might also be an option; guests can arrange it through the retreat WhatsApp group nearer the time.

If you have questions about rooms, the venue or what might help you feel comfortable, you can ask me before booking — either by emailing retreats@quietcommunity.co.uk or by adding a non-urgent question to the booking form.

Who’ll be there?

I’m Catherine, Quiet Community’s founder, and I’ll be hosting. I’m a writer, qualified yoga teacher, neuroinclusion activist and a trained educator, and I’m autistic myself. My aim is to create events where inclusion is considered from the start, rather than left until someone has to ask.

And yes, Winnie will be there too: my friendly toy poodle–Maltese–bichon. (She's hypoallergenic, teeny tiny, and loves people.) If you have questions about being around a dog, don't hesitate to ask.

The group brings together late-diagnosed neurodivergent people, introverts, people with social anxiety, and anyone who needs a little quiet — you don’t need to fit a particular label to belong here. You don’t have to be an expert on neurodiversity or arrive knowing anyone. It’s fine to take time to warm up. Connection doesn’t happen on cue.

What if I’m nervous about coming?

You might be wondering whether you’ll have enough alone time, whether you’ll know what to do, or whether sharing a room would feel comfortable. These are useful questions - not reasons to talk yourself out of coming.

You can read the retreat information, ask me about anything that’s unclear (I love answering questions!), and think about the room options that suit you. Payment plans are available, and an early bird discount is available through the waitlist.

It might also help to know that there will be several free online events before the retreat. They’re a chance to meet some of the other guests, ask questions and even try out a few of the activities from home. The first is our retreat info night on 4 November, and you’re warmly invited. For many people, arriving at a retreat feels far easier once they’ve already seen a few friendly faces.

A few days with more choice and less pressure

The Quiet Community retreat at Brownber Hall is a four-day, three-night stay with optional creative, movement and wellbeing activities, vegetarian food and time to rest or explore. You can take part in the parts that appeal and leave the rest. Sounds good, right?

If that sounds like it could suit you, you’re welcome to join the early bird waitlist or get in touch through the retreat page with questions. There’s no need to have everything figured out before you ask.

Quietly,

Catherine