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Local Chan Meditation Groups

Chan is the Chinese precursor of Japanese Zen Buddhism. We practice Chan meditation.

Local meditation groups offer an opportunity for people meet together for Chan (Chinese Zen) meditation and discussion.

Links for newcomers

What happens at these groups?

Most of our groups can teach Buddhist meditation to beginners who want to learn to meditate. They also welcome experienced practitioners who may not need any instruction.

They are not usually run as formal teaching classes. They do have the function of giving meditation instruction for newcomers. They also act as peer support groups for experienced meditators who find practising meditation together supportive in maintaining and developing their practice.

Usually there is opportunity for readings, questions, and discussion, and sometimes also some social activities. Some groups also organise occasional half-day, full-day, or longer meditation retreats.

Contact or attend a local group

Online groups

During COVID lockdowns many of our groups operated online. Some continue to do so, often welcoming people outside their usual area. 

Our Online Events page gives a list of activities available for you to join.

Western Chan Fellowship Groups

Western Chan Fellowship appoints the leaders of WCF groups. Their activities follow closely the Objects of the WCF constitution. They practice Chan (Chinese Zen) meditation. One or more of their members can give Buddhist meditation instruction to newcomers.

Open to all

All groups welcome newcomers, whether you have never tried meditation before or are a seasoned practitioner from another tradition. Some groups are open to your turning up on the day, while others require you to contact them in advance.

Locate your nearest group by browsing the list of groups or by looking at the Google Map of group locations. View their contact and meeting details.

Other Groups

There are some independent Chan groups which are not part of WCF.

These groups are independent from the WCF. We maintain a friendly and mutually supportive relationship with a mutual interest in Chan Buddhism. Some of them are ‘working towards’ becoming a WCF group and may in future be listed as WCF groups.

We provide details on the ‘other groups’ page in case you wish to contact them. 

©Western Chan Fellowship CIO 2005-2025. May not be quoted for commercial purposes. Anyone wishing to quote for non-commercial purposes may seek permission from the WCF Secretary.

The articles on this website have been submitted by various authors. The views expressed do not necessarily represent the views of the Western Chan Fellowship.