About Chisholme

 
There is only One Existence, therefore the unfolding of the destiny of the world as a global entity, and the individual destiny, are indissolubly interrelated. Bulent Rauf
 
 

The Chisholme Institute is a retreat centre and school for self knowledge, firmly rooted in the principle of unity that lies at the heart of all wisdom traditions.

Surrounded by moorland, pastures and forest, the Chisholme estate is a place of great natural beauty, wholly aligned to our awakening to the beauty of all existence, and to our own unique place in this.

The poetry of Rumi and the writings of Ibn ‘Arabi, among others, inform, guide and ground the retreats and courses offered at Chisholme. 

Established in 1975, Chisholme is situated in the Scottish Borders, about 60 miles from either Edinburgh, Carlisle, or Newcastle. The closest town is Hawick, world-famous for its cashmere knitwear.

Chisholme is open throughout the year. Courses range in length from a weekend to six months. The educational context is continuous and designed to address body, mind and spirit in a balanced and integrated way. Chisholme House, including its gardens and estate, is the physical setting for this education.

Visitors are welcome for both short visits and longer stays. The School also welcomes skilled and unskilled volunteers to work in the organic garden, on the estate, in the kitchen and house or on building projects. An ongoing programme of work, study, meditation and devotional practice underpins the life of the school, which everyone is invited to join.

The heart of the Chisholme estate is a Georgian country house, built in 1752. It is surrounded by traditional estate buildings which have been converted for accommodation, and is set in 187 acres of mixed pasture and woods, on the edge of open moorland. The estate is an integrated whole, a perfect and beautiful setting for an education founded upon the core principle of the unity of all existence. 

“I have experienced a loving intelligence right from the way the food is prepared through to the way people are with each other, incredible evidence of walking the talk and talking the walk.”            Nobel Peace Prize nominee, Scilla Elworthy

How to get to Chisholme

The Chisholme Institute, a Scottish Educational Charity, is funded entirely by donations and covenants, and is run by a small number of dedicated staff, supported by many volunteers.
For recent Institute Reports: click here...
The Chisholme Institute is accredited by the British Accreditation Council for Independent Further and Higher Education. Read more...