Set-up camp & Summer Gathering FAQs
What is the 'Set-up Camp'?
The Set-up camp is a smaller camp that takes place prior to the Summer Gathering. It starts on the Monday and lasts until Wednesday when people start to arrive for the Gathering. Shared meals are provided from the Monday evening.
Everyone works together to set-up the big tents and other facilities for the Summer Gathering. We also meditate together, have meals together and sit around the campfire in the evenings.
Its hard work, good fun and a great way to build community. What is more, the Gathering depends upon people joining the Set-up camp so please do so if you are able!
What does 'co-created' mean?
Co-created means that we will make the Gathering together. Everyone helps to make it happen. A lot of planning will have taken place, and there will be plenty of people on the site who have done it before, but we need everyone’s help to bring the Gathering to life.
This approach helps build a strong sense of sangha (community) which forges friendships and enriches the experience for everyone.
Do I have to be a Buddhist?
Buddhafield East is a community of Friends, Mitras and Order members, from the Triratna Buddhist Community in East Anglia. Being at our Summer Gathering creates an opportunity for friendship, depth, fun, intensity and nature-based immersion.
You do not have to be, or want to be, a Buddhist to participate fully in our Summer Gathering.
What are the facilities on site?
We have plenty of compost toilets which are cleaned at least daily. There are plenty of freshwater taps and some hot-showers. We have a wonderful sauna and a hot-tub under the stars.
Do I need to attend for the whole Gathering?
That is the idea. We want to build a cohesive expereince. People who stay for the whole time get much more out of the experience. Obviously, we appreciate that unplanned things do happen!
What workshops and activities will there be?
A full programme is posted each day outside the tea tent. It normally includes opportunities for meditation, yoga, talks, ritual, music-making, games and conversation around the fire.
Each day includes a work period where we all complete the tasks that keep the Gathering going smoothly. They may include: chopping vegetables, washing up, chopping wood, helping with children, keeping the toilets in toilet roll etc.
Can I get a refund if I book and then can’t come?
We will make a full refund if you cancel up to 7 days after you book. If you cancel after that time and up to 4th August, a deposit of £50 per ticket is non-refundable but we will refund any balance payments. If you cancel after 4th August, refunds, if any, are only made under extenuating circumstances (bereavement, illness, etc) and at our discretion. Please see our booking policy for full details.
Can I bring my musical instrument?
If you play an accoustic instrument please do bring it. There is lots of informal music making at Buddhafield East. If you have instuments or songsheets for shared music-making please bring them too!
What about food?
All meals will be vegan and there will be cow’s milk supplied for breakfast, hot drinks etc. There will be children’s food available as an option for children who have food preferences.
Please inform us of any dietary needs when you book. Please note that special diets can only be provided on medical grounds.
What is provided for children?
We provide some activities for children. You can help by bringing activities to share. Whilst we do our best to maintain a safe environment for them we ask you to take full responsibility for your children at all times.
How do I get to the site?
Full directions will be sent closer to the event. The nearest rail station is Brampton on the Lowestoft line from Ipswich but Halesworth is the best choice as there are more taxis (6.5 miles).
How accessible is this event?
The summer gathering takes place on two grass fields. Both are well mown but the one where most activitiy takes place is on a slope. Most toilets have steps but usually there are some with level access. The showers have some steps.
Can I bring my dog?
Sorry, we do not allow dogs on the site. Same answer for for drugs and alcohol!
What about recreational drugs or alcohol?
These are nor conducive to the spirt of the event. Please leave them at home.