By the end of the year most of us are running on empty. ADVENTure is a weekend away for young people in school years 10-13 at The Briars, our retreat centre in the Derbyshire hills on the very weekend Advent begins. An opportunity to press pause, rest, refill and enter into Advent properly, the Church’s slow, hopeful run-up to Christmas. It’s an open weekend: come alone or with a friend, first-timers are as welcome as returners for a weekend full of festive fun. Bursaries are available if the cost is prohibitive.

The weekend

Friday: arrivals from 5.30pm, rolling dinner, let us know if you’re going to be late and we’ll save you some food

Saturday: Mass at 7pm – families and friends are welcome!

Sunday: collection from 2pm.

The practical bits

Who it’s for: Young people in school years 10-13

Cost: £50, covering accommodation, meals and the whole programme

Where: The Briars, Briars’ Lane, Crich, Matlock DE4 5BW, lifts from the train station (Ambergate) can be arranged

Booking: by 13th November 2026

If you’ve ever come home from a school retreat still talking about it, this is the next thing. Book through the form below, or email events@ndcys.com first and ask us anything (cost, lifts, what the weekend actually involves).