Consider the possibility of a school of self-knowledge, set aside for the exclusive understanding, in every sense of Reality: not by means of a religion, nor by a particular way among ways nor through a teacher, nor by means of any particular faculty, such as the intellect or imagination – without any of these, nor by the denial of any of these, but only through the knowing, loving and affirmation of what is, by Itself and for Itself alone.
Peter Young, Principal at Chisholme 1987–2015
The Chisholme Institute was established in 1979 on a beautiful 18th Century Scottish estate 60 miles south of Edinburgh. Since then, its focus has been to provide education in the art of self-discovery to students from all over the world and to promote an increased awareness of the real value of our connection to the world and each other.
The courses and retreats at Chisholme address body, mind and spirit in a balanced and integrated way, through programmes of study, meditation, work and devotional practice. Every aspect and activity, from the baking of bread to the planting of trees, is seen to be part of the education offered here.
Chisholme offers a range of courses throughout the year and welcomes volunteers to come and work in the house, grounds and beautiful walled organic gardens.
Visitors are always welcome for both short visits and longer stays.
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
Photo © Aliya Ryan
The Chisholme Institute is a Scottish Registered Charity whose focus is to provide a residential retreat and study facility, offering non-denominational courses in spiritual education which are available to all. Its core principles are:
Meet the Institute's Board of Directors
Read some of the history of the estate and the school
Sat 28th May 2022
09:00
to
Sat 4th June 2022
12:00
Join us for a series of Garden Weeks throughout the summer.
Further dates:
July 23–30
Aug 27–Sept 3
Sun 29th May 2022
An invitation to sit together in silent meditation.
Sunday at 6pm (GMT)
Last summer a group at Chisholme, including residents and some Directors, met in the old spruce plantation at Fat Hill, along with Ben Young, the former estate manager and a woodland expert. The intention was to reach an agreement on the next best step; whether and when the trees be clear felled, and to consider future plans for replanting.