Sunyata Buddhist Centre — Co. Clare, Ireland

Volunteer-run Thai Forest Buddhist centre on ten acres in rural County Clare

At seven each morning the day at Sunyata begins with puja and meditation, and at seven in the evening it closes the same way. In between come a self-service breakfast, a work meeting and morning reflection, a work period, and lunch at 12.30. The centre describes this rhythm as an essential part of its spiritual practice: ordinary activities used to bring mindfulness and composure, in activity or stillness, in relationship or solitude. Sunyata Buddhist Centre sits on a ten-acre property in rural County Clare, at Snaty near Sixmilebridge. It is devoted to the Thai Forest tradition of Buddhism, particularly the lineage of Ajahn Chah and Ajahn Sumedho, who opened the Dhamma hall in July 2000. Residential retreats have been offered since 1998, along with a range of other events for people wishing to learn about Buddhism, mindfulness and meditation. People of all faiths or none are welcome. The place runs entirely on volunteer effort, and that shapes how it works. Guests are expected to share in the daily routine and help with the tasks that keep the centre going. Retreats are held in Noble Silence, with participants keeping the Eight Precepts, and events are offered on a donation (dana) basis, with costs kept low so suggested donations can be too. Online retreats are now also offered, with the same expectation of full commitment to the schedule and the precepts. At present, guest stays and volunteer visits are temporarily suspended while the centre looks for a new manager. The morning and evening pujas continue. The centre's events include guided meditations and Dhamma talks by Ajahn Vajiro. A weekend retreat led by him, for 20 to 22 February 2026, was listed under Sunyata's name but was to be held at Kilcuan Retreat Centre near Clarinbridge, Co. Galway, not at the Clare property.

Traditions: Thai Forest Tradition, Lineage of Ajahn Chah and Ajahn Sumedho, Mindfulness meditation, Noble Silence, Eight Precepts, Puja

Programs: Morning puja and meditation, Evening puja and meditation, Residential retreats, Online retreats, Guided meditations and Dhamma talks, Regular meditation workshops, Day visits and community activities, Volunteer stays (currently suspended)