Join us this August for a truly meaningful experience in the breathtaking Lake District, where every moment is crafted to foster a deeper connection—with nature, the Quran, community, and your inner self. Set against the serene backdrop of Skidaw, Blencathra, Lake Derwentwater, and Keswick, this retreat allows us to discover Allah’s signs in every element of the landscape. Together, we’ll engage in Quranic reflections, communal prayers, and undertake activities that bring us closer. With communal cooking, shared meals, and heartfelt moments, we become one big family, creating bonds that uplift us on our journey to becoming better versions of ourselves. At MFA, every moment is purposeful and profoundly connected. Embark on this transformative journey with us and reconnect with what truly matters.
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England’s best-known and most popular national park is a postcard landscape of shimmering lakes, craggy hilltops and ancient forests that has enchanted outdoor enthusiasts as well as poets and painters since the late 18th century.
We’ll be surrounded by the breathtaking peaks of Latrigg and Blencathra, with the serene waters of Lake Derwentwater and the charming town of Keswick nearby.
Blencathra, also known as Saddleback, is a mountain in the north of the English Lake District. It is one of the most northerly hills in the region and its distinctive shape makes it easily recognizable. Blencathra is a popular destination for walkers and hikers, as there are a number of routes to the summit that offer stunning views of the surrounding area.
Derwentwater is a beautiful lake located in the North of the Lake District. It is surrounded by a number of fells, including Catbells, Maiden Moor, and Walla Crag. Derwentwater is a popular spot for boating, fishing, and hiking. There are a number of walking trails around the lake which offer stunning views of the surrounding fells.
Keswick is a small town located in the North of the Lake District. It is a popular destination for tourists, as it serves as a gateway to the Northern Fells. Keswick has a number of shops, restaurants, and supermarkets, as well as a number of attractions such as the Pencil Museum and the Theatre by the Lake.
Accommodation
The Blencathra Centre occupies a dramatic setting at 300m up the south facing slope of Blencathra in the Lake District National Park, and offers an unparalleled panorama across the Keswick, Helvellyn and Skiddaw areas. It comes with a fully fitted kitchen with gas industrial cookers, dishwasher, fridge, freezers, microwave, crockery and utensils etc. The centre has a library, three TV/DVD lounge rooms, one with games facilities including table football, table tennis and a pool table, and outside there are basketball/volleyball courts and picnic areas.
The entire centre has been exclusively reserved for MFA, ensuring that all facilities are dedicated solely for our use throughout the adventure-retreat.
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Mountains and Fells: Blencathra | Skiddaw | Catbells | Latrigg | Scafell Pike | Helvellyn
Lakes: Derwentwater | Ullswater | Buttermere | Bassenthwaite | Crummock Water
Waterfalls: Aira Force | Lodore Falls
Forests: Whinlatter Forest | Dodd Wood Forest
Caves: Cathedral Cave | Rydal Cave
Valleys: Borrowdale | Buttermere
Mountain Passes: Honister Pass
Wildlife: The Lake District Wildlife Park
Viewpoints: Surprise View | Friar’s Craig
Heritage: Castlerigg Stone Circle
Towns: Keswick | Penrith
Museums: Derwent Pencil Museum | Keswick Museum | Threlkeld Quarry and Mining Museum
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Day 1: Arrival and Connection
The retreat begins with a warm welcome upon arrival, setting the tone for an enriching experience. After Maghrib and Isha prayers, participants will engage in an introduction, a heartfelt reminder, and set intentions for the retreat. Dinner will be followed by games, sports, and activities to foster community and fun. The night concludes with a serene night walk under the stars, offering time for reflection, connection with nature, and settling in before rest. A beautiful start to a transformative journey.
Day 2: Adventure and Reflection
The day starts with Fajr Prayer and a Quran Circle to inspire hearts, followed by breakfast and a refreshing breathing/stretching session. The group then heads to Whinlatter Forest for a choice of activities, including mountain biking, Go Ape adventures, orienteering, and scenic forest/river trails. After Dhuhr and Asr prayers and a communal lunch, the evening brings Maghrib and Isha prayers, a thought-provoking reminder, and a session of communal cooking and dinner. The day concludes with the creative Art of Giving project for young people and moments of meaningful reflections and journaling.
Day 3: Embracing the Mountain and Reflecting on Purpose
The day begins with Fajr Prayer and a Quran Circle, followed by breakfast and energising breathing/stretching exercises. The group then departs to ascend Latrigg, immersing in the beauty and lessons of the mountain. After Dhuhr and Asr prayers and a refreshing lunch, the day transitions into Maghrib and Isha prayers, a heartfelt reminder, and communal cooking and dinner. The evening wraps up with the creative Art of Giving project and Mountain Reflections to draw wisdom from the retreat.
Day 4: Reflecting in Nature and Rekindling Connections
The day begins with Fajr Prayer and a Quran Circle, followed by breakfast and breathing/stretching exercises. The group then departs for Cathedral Cave, delving into reflections on Surah Al-Kahf. After Dhuhr and Asr prayers and a hearty lunch, the evening features Maghrib and Isha prayers, a moving reminder, and communal cooking and dinner. The day concludes with The Art of Giving project, a bushcraft session on firelighting and tea preparation, and a heartwarming campfire with storytelling to embrace the retreat’s closing moments.
Day 5: Farewell and New Beginnings
The final day begins with Fajr Prayer and a reflective Quran Circle, followed by breakfast and energizing breathing/stretching exercises. The group participates in a communal cleanup before a heartfelt Farewell and Awards Ceremony. The adventure continues with a visit to Lake Derwentwater for kayaking, paddleboarding, canoeing, or exploring lake trails. After Dhuhr and Asr prayers, there’s time to explore Keswick before Maghrib and Isha prayers. The retreat concludes with warm goodbyes and departures from the Lake District, taking cherished memories home.
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At the heart of the adventure-retreat is communal self-catering, where everyone comes together to prepare and enjoy meals as one big family. MFA will provide fresh, organic, and local ingredients wherever possible, and the group will prepare breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This shared experience is about more than food—it’s about bonding, sharing skills, and creating unforgettable memories.
Breakfast
We will prepare nourishing breakfasts on Days 2, 3, 4, and 5, including eggs, tuna, cheese, beans, bread, cereals, spreads, fruits, and hot drinks.
Lunch
Each family will prepare their own packed lunches using the provided groceries or their own supplies.
Dinner
Adults will work in teams to prepare themed dinners on Days 2, 3, and 4:
• Day 2: Asian-inspired lamb dishes
• Day 3: Arab-inspired chicken dishes
• Day 4: Italian-inspired beef dishes
Families will handle their own dinner on Day 1.
Refreshments
Tea, coffee, and hot chocolate will be available throughout your stay.
Kitchen Facilities
The fully equipped industrial kitchen comes with all the essentials—pots, pans, utensils, cutlery, and crockery—ensuring a smooth cooking experience for everyone.
The cost is £24.50 per person (over 5) for communal food arrangements.
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This Adventure Retreat is thoughtfully priced to make it accessible for families: £190 per parent/adult and £150 per child. Infants aged 5 or under can join for free (sharing a bed with a parent or sibling). Optional extras include £80 per room for en-suite facilities and £24.50 per person (age 6 and above) for communal food arrangements. We also offer a 10% discount for larger families with 5 or more paying members.
Your investment covers a comprehensive package: clean and comfortable hostel accommodation with self-catering facilities, a carefully curated adventure programme, uplifting Islamic reminders, meaningful family-friendly activities, and a safe, vibrant Muslim community environment.
Please note: transport, optional instructor-led activities, and equipment hire are not included.
If you are experiencing any financial difficulties, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re here to help and will do our best to support you so your family doesn’t miss out on this meaningful experience.