IZAUK November Sesshin led by Zen Teacher Hōsei Lana Berrington

This is two-and-a-half day intense retreat of silent seated meditation in the Soto-Zen style – zazen – with teachings, ceremonies, formal meals and periods of collective work – samu. This event is open to everyone, but those without prior zazen experience are encouraged to join one of IZAUK’s affiliate groups at one of their regular practice introductions.

THE TEACHER

The sesshin will be led by Hōsei Lana Berrington. Lana began practising zazen in London in 2001 and received the Buddhist precepts in 2003. She was ordained as a nun in 2006 by her master, Mokuhō Guy Mercier, formally becoming his disciple. She co-founded and led the Warren Street Dojo from 2010 to 2015 and was appointed head of the North London Dojo in 2011. She undertook monastic training in Japan before receiving Dharma Transmission from Mokuhō Guy Mercier in 2025. She is now a certified teacher of the Sōtō Zen School. Lana continues to lead zazen and teach kesa and rakusu sewing at the North London Dojo.

WHEN?

Arrive:  Thursday 5th November, after 4PM – Before 8PM (for dinner)

Departure: Sunday 8th Nov – The sesshin will finish around 4:30PM Sunday – OR – why not stay Sunday night? We are going to have a festive evening with dinner together and entertainment – this is an opportunity for people share short performances, bring an instrument if you wish – we’ll be out before 10AM on Monday Morning 9th Nov.

VENUE:

YHA Sheringham 1 Cremer’s Drift Sheringham Norfolk, NR26 8HX

Travel information:

There is a regular mainline train service to Norwich from most major cities.

Trains run from Norwich to Sheringham once an hour (www.greateranglia.co.uk) National Express Coach and Megabus services both go to Norwich where you can take a bus or train to Sheringham. Bus nos. 44, 44a, X44, X40 run every 30 minutes. See Sanders Coaches https://www.sanderscoaches.com/timetables

Click here to download the leaflet in PDF

PRICES:

Recommended: £180 (Friends) £200 (Non-Members) Low waged: £155 (Friends) £175 (Non-Members) Unwaged: £130 (Friends) £150 (Non-Members)

  • There will be a £20 discount for bookings received by 15 October 2026.
  • Full payment or a £25 deposit will need to be made when booking, and full payment required prior to the sesshin itself.
  • Deposits are not normally refundable.

Friends of IZAUK members who require financial assistance are encouraged to make use of the Bursary fund. Please contact John Callaghan at john@izauk.net

WHAT TO BRING

For Zazen: Bring comfortable, subdued coloured/dark clothing for zazen plus a zafu and zafuton if you have them. For Eating:  – You will need either an oryoki set or three different-sized bowls with a cloth to wrap them (please ask for further information if needed). – Also bring a spoon and a fork or chopsticks – Please also bring a mug or cup to use for your beverages throughout the sesshin.

REGISTRATION:

Please complete the following registration form,  contact Edgar at: event-organiser@izauk.net if you have any questions.