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.
This possibility is the Beshara School

Peter Young, Principal at Chisholme 1987–2015

About Chisholme

Chisholme is a place of great natural beauty, close to open moorland and surrounded by ancient forest and pasture; a place where we can see a clear night sky lit up with a million stars, walk in the glory of the dawn chorus, or sit in perfect silence.

The Chisholme Institute was established in 1979 on this beautiful 18th Century estate 60 miles south of Edinburgh. The intention and focus has always been to provide an education in self-discovery to students from all over the world, promoting an awareness of our connection to the world and to each other in the light of the unity of all existence.

The courses and retreats at Chisholme address body, mind and spirit in an integrated way, through a programme of study, meditation, work and devotional practice. Every aspect and activity, from the baking of bread to the planting of trees, is part of the education offered here.

Chisholme offers a range of courses throughout the year and welcomes volunteers to help support ongoing work on the estate and in the beautiful walled gardens.

Visitors are welcome at any time for both short visits and longer stays.
Please email secretary@chisholme.org to arrange your visit.

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.
Scilla Elworthy

Photo © Aliya Ryan

Purpose and Objects

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:  

• To develop and improve an understanding that all life is interdependent, as can be seen in the ecological, economic, cultural and spiritual spheres.
• To encourage and be involved in study, research and work to increase public awareness of the unity of existence.
• To publish and share knowledge gained from studies, research and work. To establish courses to develop a wider understanding of the unity of existence.
• To encourage and be involved in work in: ecological conservation, the development of good husbandry and resource management, conservation of our heritage of buildings, artefacts and craft skills, and spiritual practices.
  
  

Meet the Institute's Board of Directors
Read some of the history of the estate and the school