GesherEU’s Residential Weekend Away 2026 - The Biggest to Date

The 2026 Gesher annual residential once again brought members and their families together for a wintry weekend of fun, community and shared experiences in the Peak District. With over 50 people attending, it was the largest residential we’ve held to date.

Our members stayed in an large country house Airbnb, just a short walk away from a reservoir, the peaks and a hiking trail.  It was an opportunity to relax, explore the great British outdoors, and share time with friends old and new. The weekend’s activities included a long, “very cold, muddy, wet and windy” hike on Saturday morning, which tested everyone’s endurance (as well as the impermeability of their boots), and an evening talent show where the children showed off their skills. One member, Odele, celebrated her birthday during the weekend. 

This year’s resident chef was once again longtime member and now trustee, Motti, who dished up tasty meals including his trademark Shakshuka for breakfast, and stuffed peppers for dinner. 

The annual residential weekend is a particularly important event for members’ children, helping them to adjust to life outside the community. One child reported,“I get to meet new people from different communities and backgrounds,” while another said, “I enjoyed the company of other children. I like that I have this private part of my life that people back in my community don’t need to know about and it’s my space.”

This benefits their parents too. Malky, who brought her daughter along said: “I love that my daughter can come on these weekends and connect to like-minded kids and people that she can get on with.”

Another mother told us: “It’s amazing how my child is able to socialise with all ages, and seeing him carefree and having company is my highlight.”

Feedback from the weekend was overwhelmingly positive, with several members calling it “the highlight of our year.” Racheli said: “This is my first time experiencing something like this and at first I was a little nervous but after it I can confidently say that I enjoyed the nature hike, climbing up to the peak of the mountain and pushing myself out my comfort zone. I felt very comfortable with everyone, and everyone was very accepting and friendly.”

For Miri, the weekend was “all about acceptance and having fun! And feeling supper comfortable whilst doing so I didn’t feel judged.”

As for Zissy, “The Gesher weekends are a perfect blend of nostalgia and making new memories.
True highlights of my year with lasting friendships and a special space to connect, heal, and grow together.”