Duddon Valley Retreat
An exquisitely secluded remote hall space suitable for a range of creative purposes.
From hands-on workshops and relaxing courses to healing sessions and academic lectures.
A perfect location for your event!
Situated in a beautiful valley in the Lake District National Park, Duddon Valley Retreat offers a serene and picturesque environment, perfect for a variety of events and activities.
Modern Amenities
Versatile Spaces
Beautiful Location
Historic Charm
Beautifully located venue for a range of purposes
Ulpha is situated in the Duddon valley, one of the most beautiful valleys in the Lake District. The village is situated three miles along the valley, from Duddon bridge on the A595.
Surrounded by rolling hills and stunning vistas, our historic venue provides a unique and inspiring setting for your gatherings.
It’s suitable for a range of purposes, including Art/drawing weekends, music workshops, educational and lecture hall, group bonding as a base whilst using the local area, and many others.
Ulpha Old School
Duddon Valley Retreat was originally built as a local primary school.
The original stone building dates from the 19th century and was enlarged in the 1960s to cope with growing numbers and to provide more facilities and better light.
The School closed in 1999 and has since been converted to make a large retreat centre and educational space.
The building consists of an L-shaped hall, previously two school classrooms and a dining and PE area, with a separate office/private room, tea-making area and a shower and toilet room, plus a separate toilet.
The old School can be booked for daytime courses and activities, either in the main hall or the whole building.
Hiring the Venue
The Old School can be booked for as short as a day, or a longer period.
The main school hall is a large flexible space that lends itself to a variety of uses.
It can be set out in a formal way, with chairs, tables or desks, or informally, with cushions or mats.
It can be used as an open space, with the tools and equipment needed for a practical activity, or set out with display boards as an exhibition space.
Alternatively, due to its L-shape it can be divided into distinct areas.
This welcoming space lends itself beautifully to all kinds of meaningful gatherings—whether it’s a creative art weekend, an inspiring music workshop, an educational retreat, or a place for groups to connect and recharge while exploring the local area. It’s a place where ideas are shared, connections are made, and memories are created.
We are mindful of the quiet nature of this rural community and the agreed use will need to be sensitive to that.
Suitable Uses
This versatile venue has hosted everything from heartfelt gatherings, to vibrant
creative retreats, music workshops, and educational sessions.
The main school hall is a spacious, flexible setting designed to bring your gatherings to life.
Whether you envision a structured setup with tables and chairs for deep discussions, a cozy retreat with cushions and mats for reflection, or an open, airy space for hands-on activities, this hall transforms to meet your needs.
With its unique L-shaped design,
the main hall
offers both openness and the ability to create distinct, intimate spaces tailored to your needs.
Previous workshops and courses that have taken place include teaching courses such as permaculture, foraging, calligraphy, yoga and meditation, practical workshops such as stone carving, willow weaving and drum making, and therapeutic courses such as ‘family constellations’.
Whether you're planning an art-filled weekend, an inspiring lecture, or a group retreat using the stunning Lake District as your backdrop, this space provides the perfect foundation for meaningful experiences.
Step into a space that adapts to your vision.
Whatever your purpose, the hall is more than just a venue—it’s a place where moments are shared, creativity flourishes, and connections deepen.
Workshops / Courses
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Educational Lectures
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Exhibitions
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Therapeutic sessions
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