Frequently Asked Questions
We will be releasing more information about the weekend as it approaches but we hope the FAQs below are helpful at the start of the booking process. If you have any further questions email Jude on hello@stdionis.org.uk for more information.
General
Is it possible to know the schedule in advance?
The schedule will be sent to you at a later date but arrival and end times are explained in the booking section on the previous page.
Does the hotel cater for different dietary requirements?
Yes, when you book on the weekend you will be asked to let us know any specific dietary requirements and we will pass these on to the hotel Chef and their team.
What free time will I get across the weekend?
The weekend will include planned times for relaxing and socialising including entertainment on Saturday evening. A range of activities will also be available on Saturday afternoon but everything will be optional. Here is a Local guide to some activities near the hotel! We will also be revealing some options as the weekend draws closer.
I'm introverted, how will I survive the weekend?
The schedule includes free time for those who are more introverted to have space for stillness and quiet. We want to help you connect with God and with the St Dionis community, so with that in mind we have considered a range of ways you can do that across the weekend!
We also factor this in with room allocation too and have some single occupancy rooms (Available for an additional cost) please contact Jude at jude@stdionis.org.uk for more details
How can I travel to the venue?
The hotel is so easy to get to and from London! Below are the three ways to arrive at the venue. NB: St Dionis does not organise transport to and from the venue so please make your own way. For more information about the venue, please click here for their website.
By Train
Egham (EGH) station is just 3 miles from the hotel, with connections to London Waterloo and Reading. Windsor & Eton Riverside (WNR) station and Windsor & Eton Central (WNC) station are also nearby.
By Road
De Vere Beaumont Estate is easily accessible from the M3, M4, and M25. Use the following navigation coordinates (51.449394, -0.575441) and postcode (SL4 2JJ) to find the hotel. Parking is free for all guests.
What time do we need to be there on the Friday?
Please arrive on Friday afternoon from 5pm (Friday 26 January). The venue has been chosen to minimise travelling time from London so that people won’t need to arrive too late after work. A hot buffet supper will run from 5.30 - 8pm with the first evening session starting straight after this.
What happens if I haven't been before?
During the weekend, there are many opportunities for organised groups so you won't be unknown for very long. The weekend away is an amazing time to get to know others very quickly. If you have any further questions or concerns, contact Jude on jude@stdionis.org.uk and she will be able to answer them for you!
What facilities are there at the venue?
The hotel facilities include a indoor swimming pool, fully equipped gym, tennis courts, an outdoor play area and 40 acres of parkland grounds. All these are free to use though please note that children will need supervision in certain areas. Children/Youth under 16 years old will need to be accompanied by an adult. (Max 3 children per adult)
We will also have additional activities available during the Saturday afternoon 'free time' slot. Watch this space as they are revealed!
In addition to our conference centre and the restaurant, there is also a bar and lounge to use in the evenings/free time.
Free, superfast Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel and up to 100m within the grounds.
How far away is my room?
The bedrooms are a short walk (3-5 minutes) from our main conference space which gives more time for conversation and community. If you need an accessible room please contact Jude on jude@stdionis.org.uk for more information. We recommend bringing a day bag for your bible, notepad, mug and water bottle!
What time will it finish on Sunday?
The weekend will end with a family service on the Sunday followed by a buffet lunch running from 1 - 2.30pm then pack down and departure.
How will people know who I am?
The return of the lanyard! Everyone will be required to wear a lanyard which has their name on it (and the timetable of the weekend)!
Families
What is the children's and youth provision?
We are planning exciting children's and youth sessions to compliment the adult programme. There will be groups for those in primary and secondary school, and a creche (overseen by children’s team; subject to volunteers). Watch this space for more information soon!
If you are interested in helping with one or more of the creche, children's or youth sessions please get in touch with Hannah. We offer a reduced ticket for those serving in this way. Hannah
Will there be all-age worship?
Yes! We love all-age worship and so it will be back for all to enjoy. Get practising on those actions!
Do I need to bring a travel cot?
The hotel does not supply travel cots. You will need to bring your own should you need one.
Is there still a live stream link?
Yes! We are pleased to announce we are able to offer a live stream so that if you are in the creche or have to go back to your room for nap time you won't miss out on all the fun!
When do we eat?
The timetable will have earlier meal times for families, particularly to suit those with young children. Exact timings will be communicated with the programme details.
Is there babysitting?
Unfortunately, we aren't able to offer babysitting across the weekend. There will be a live stream available in each session so that you won't have to miss a thing. Why not team up with other parents and take a shift each?!
Will there be afternoon activities for children?
The Saturday afternoon slot for down time is completely yours. In previous years, people have played a game of rugby, gone for a walk along the Thames, or stayed in and taken advantage of our board game area!
Here is a local guide for other places in the area if you as a family want to leave the site and return before dinner. More information about the hotel can be found on their site: De Vere Beaumont Estate.
Please note children must be accompanied around the hotel.
Do the rooms work with Children's Monitors?
Unfortunately, baby/children's monitors don't stretch from our conference building to the bedrooms. However, we do our best to get families as close to each other as possible so group babysitting can be arranged.