Built for the road ahead: Sue Nicholls on Rookhow

‘So far, more than 300 people from twenty groups have benefitted.’

During the recent Quaker Life Representative Council workshops on ‘faith-based action arising from strong spiritual community’, I was able to share the story of how Rookhow in South Lakeland has become a centre for outreach, and a resource for vulnerable groups.

Rookhow was built in 1725 as a monthly Meeting house for the ‘scattered communities of the Society of Friends’. Set in twelve acres of ancient oak woodland, its converted bunkbarn offers simple accommodation. In 2017 the site was run down and underused. Local Meetings were unsure of their ability to manage and care for the buildings; some wondered whether it should be sold. But at a threshing Meeting in December that year, it became clear that there was a depth of feeling and energy in favour of its preservation. A group of local Quaker families who had been using the site could see its potential. An oversight group was formed.

There were many key moments in the story but when I was hired as a development manager, I was able to focus on the restoration of the Meeting house and overall development and running of the site. In March 2020 Rookhow became a charity, with trustees from each of the surrounding Area Meetings. During lockdown we widened Rookhow’s support base through regular Zoom events. As restrictions eased, a community of volunteers emerged – these have since given more than 4,000 hours of time and energy. Donations from an appeal in this magazine, together with grants from charitable trusts, enabled some immediate work and planning. A grant from the Quaker Mental Health Fund UK initiated the Rookhow Retreat Away Fund, which subsidises stays for mental health groups.

So far, more than 300 people from twenty groups have benefitted, including refugees, those dealing with substance misuse, domestic violence, LGBTQ+ young people, and families with complex needs. One group wrote, ‘Rookhow in itself is a place where healing takes place effortlessly due to its beautiful setting and atmosphere.’ Historic England Open Days bring interested visitors, often new to Quakerism, every month. Meetings for Worship are held on these days and on the first Wednesday of each month. For many who come, it is their first interaction with Quakerism.

The strength of Rookhow’s growth is social action, deeply rooted in Quaker values and community, with inclusion at its heart. Looking forward to our 300-year anniversary in 2025, we aim to widen the number of charitable groups staying, improve facilities, further develop the Meeting house, and run more events. A former trustee wrote, ‘In my wildest dreams I couldn’t have even hoped for how it looks now and how vibrant a resource it has become.’

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