Join us this December 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 Latrigg, 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.
Latrigg Mountain, nestled in the Lake District near Keswick, England, is one of the most accessible and rewarding fell walks in the area. Rising to 368 meters, it offers sweeping views of Derwentwater, Keswick, and the surrounding peaks, making it a favorite for both casual walkers and seasoned hikers. Its gentle slopes and open landscapes invite visitors to experience the beauty and tranquility of the Lake District, with opportunities for reflection and connection to the natural wonders around.
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.
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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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MFA Assisted Self Led Activities: Night Walks | Mountain Hikes | Waterfall Walks | Village Walks | Mountain Biking | Rowing | Boating | Dark Skies Stargazing | Forest Walks | Orienteering | Lake Cruises | Backwood Cooking | Blindfold Trail | Bushcrafting
Instructor Led Activities:* Canoeing | Rock Climbing | Ghyll Scrambling | Kayaking
Social Activities: Communal Praying | Communal Eating | Campfire and Storytelling | Islamic Reminders | Adults Icebreaker and Brainstorming Session
Sports: Soft Archery | Table Tennis | Table Football | Basketball | Football
Games: Children’s Quiz | Card Games | Board Games | Tag Games | Creative Games
Workshops: Mindfulness | Growth Mindset | Fitness | Yoga | Pilates | Navigation and Map Reading
* These are optional half-a-day (3-hour) instructor-led activities that has an additional cost of £35/person. Equipment, training and instruction is provided as part of the course.
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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 for Keswick 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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As a guide, it costs around £160 per parent (or individual adult) and £120 per child for the adventure. Infants 0-5 years go for free, provided they share a bed with a sibling or a parent. There is an additional charge of £80 per room for ensuite facilities. Bookings are for the full adventure (5 days, 4 nights) only. We have introductory, promotional and “large-family” discounts from time to time. So please fill the form below to get a custom price for the adventure.
The adventure includes:
Accommodation in a clean and conveniently located hostel. All bed linen is provided but please bring your own towel and toiletries.
Self-catering kitchens with hobs, ovens, fridge, freezer, microwaves, pots. cutlery and crockery
Dining rooms and common rooms with several sitting areas for adults and children
Communal prayer areas for both men and women
Beautiful landscaped grounds outside with seating areas, shelters and wildlife area
Games room with table football, table tennis and board games
Detailed programme/itinerary of places to visit and activities for each day
Arrangement and coordination of general adventure activities (there is no additional charge for this)
Arrangement of instructor-led adventure activities with a group booking discount
Workshops and indoor group activities
Free guest WIFI access throughout the stay (often there is no phone signal)
Private Telegram group to keep guests updated
Healthy socialisation and group activities with like-minded Muslim families and friends
Safe, secure and Muslim environment for adults and children
Advice, support and tour guidance
Motivational talks, presentations and Islamic reminders
The adventure does not include:
Transport (please make your own way to the centre)
Food (it is self catering or externally arranged through caterers)
Payment for optional instructor-led adventure activities
Payment for optional hiring of equipment (if required, for example mountain bikes or motor boats)
Please read the FAQ section on the homepage for more information.
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Food arrangement is communal-self catering
Groceries
We'll be ordering groceries as a group, and you're welcome to join in. For only £7.50 per person, you can enjoy a selection of essential supplies, including bread, milk, eggs, butter/spreads, tea, coffee, hot chocolate, sugar, cooking oil, salt, pepper, sandwich bags and fruits such as apples, bananas, and mandarins. It's a convenient and cost-effective option to ensure you have the basics covered during your stay.
Dinner:
This is our main meal of the day. You can bring pre-cooked food and store it in the fridge/freezer, bring ingredients to cook at the hostel, or join the new Communal Dinner arrangement (see below).
Communal Dinner
We are excited to introduce communal dinner in our upcoming adventures! This new feature will bring us closer together as we organize ourselves into teams to prepare delicious dinners on Days 2, 3, and 4. MFA will take care of ordering all the necessary supplies, ensuring we have everything we need to create nourishing and tasty meals. The cost will be shared among participants, fostering a sense of community and cooperation. This experience is not only about enjoying great food but also about bonding, sharing skills, and making lasting memories. Join us for this unique and enriching communal dining experience!
Proposed Dinner Arrangement
Day 1 - Arrange your own
Day 2 - Asian Special
Main: lamb, dhal, rice, naan, vegetable, salad
Desert: ice cream
Day 3 - Arab Special
Main: baked chicken, baked potatoes, stir fried (or baked) vegetables, couscous/bread, salad, dips
Desert: fruit salad
Day 4 - Italian Special
Main: pasta/lasagne with beef mince, pizza, garlic bread, salad, dips
Desert: cheese cake
The estimated cost is £12 per person for all three days. For example, the estimated cost for a family of 4 is £48.
Kitchen Facilities: There is a fully fitted industrial kitchen with all facilities, sufficient for everyone. All pots, pans, utensils, cutlery and crockery are provided.