Men's Rites of Passage 2026

"An important, life changing experience, it took me apart and put me back together, one of the best things I’ve ever done."

Step Beyond the Ordinary. Awaken to the Extraordinary.

Many men reach a stage where the old ways of living no longer feel enough. Work, family, or success may look fine on the outside, but inside there can be a sense that something’s missing.

The Men’s Rites of Passage is a five-day retreat designed to help you reflect, discover a deeper sense of who you are and what matters most, and step more fully into the man you want to be.

What this is:

Inspired by the work of Richard Rohr, The Rites of Passage is a journey of masculine spirituality. It offers a safe but challenging space where men support one another to grow, to face themselves honestly, and to step forward with fresh clarity and purpose. It is active, participatory, and designed to help you reconnect with what really matters in your life.

What this isn't:

This is not a boot camp, and there is no “pass or fail.” It is not religious, but it is spiritual and it welcomes men of all faiths or none. This isn't a passive retreat – you won’t be sitting back. You’ll be asked to engage fully in an experience that can open the door to real change.

The Rites are open to all men – whatever your age, background, sexuality, ethnicity, or belief. If you feel drawn to take a deeper look at your life, this is for you.

What you'll experience:

Across five days you’ll take part in:

• Time outdoors in nature – including time alone for reflection.

• Shared circles with other men – listening, speaking honestly, and being heard.

• Simple practices with fire, drumming, and quiet that help you slow down and reconnect to something bigger.

• Support from experienced guides – men who’ve been through this process themselves and will walk alongside you.

Why Take Part?

Because you're ready to:

• Step away from the busyness and pressures of everyday life.

• Look honestly at the challenges, wounds, or questions you carry.

• Find strength and encouragement in the company of other men.

• Step into the man you want to be.

• Return to your life with fresh energy, insight, and commitment.

Men who have completed the Rites often speak of it as a turning point: a moment where they began living with more courage, authenticity, and connection:

"The rites peeled back all that had calloused inside me. The hurt, the rage, the disappointment, the black tar goo that weighed heavy on my heart. I've felt a deeper connection to my maleness, to nature, to the idea of being of service to others. I now feel able to share my life with my partner, I feel like a father and am acting accordingly. All of this is coming more easily, more instinctually now. I'm still in my job but I'm making plans, looking at my options, I'm excited by the prospects for once."

Event details:

• Date: 22 – 26 July 2026

• Location: The Bield, Perth, Scotland (PH1 1PY). The Bield (an old Scottish word meaning refuge, strength, and nurture) is a beautiful, peaceful space that invites the necessary stillness for deep reflection, and supports the kind of quiet alchemy necessary for the Rites.

• Cost: Cost is currently being finalised and will be released in the coming weeks. It is expected to be between £580-£780. The Male Journey is committed to ensuring no man is turned away because of money. Bursaries are available if needed. Please contact convenors@malejourney.org.uk to discuss this.

Please also note:

• All leaders give their time voluntarily, which keeps the cost far below what a similar commercial retreat would normally charge.

• The price covers all meals and camping. You’ll need to bring your own tent, sleeping bag, and camping kit.

• Travel to Perth is your responsibility, though car sharing may be possible with other participants.

• For a surcharge of £150, indoor bedrooms are reserved for men who could not otherwise attend (e.g. due to health or accessibility needs). If you need this option, please let us know when applying.

How to Apply:

Applying is simple:

1. Complete this application form.

2. You’ll be asked for some basic personal details and a few short questions about why you feel drawn to take part in the Rites of Passage.

3. Once submitted, one of our team will be in touch to confirm your place.

4. Once your place is confirmed you will be asked to pay the fee via card payment or bank transfer.

This isn’t a test — it’s simply a way for us to understand your journey and ensure the Rites are the right step for you at this time.

Not sure yet? Ask for a call with one of our team by completing the form on this page. We’ll listen and help you decide whether this is right for you.