London: Tea Time in Wonderland

Alissa is the one who made me discover this little gem… Yes, hidden in Wimbledon village.

Buddhapadipa was the first buddhist temple built in the UK and the only one in Europe based on Thai architecture: not bad for this adorable pagoda, so little known of the public!

Do stop to admire the white walls, enhanced by the gorgeous red and gold roof. In such a rich neighbourhood, the big houses suddenly lose all charm…

Photos are not allowed inside but you will be amazed by the explosion of gold and details. Buddah’s life is painted from floor to ceiling, a whole wall is dedicated to the shrine with various statues, sparkling from the sunshine rays… Difficult to believe – we spent a long time just sitting there on the floor, hypnotised, soothed from the calm atmosphere.

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The monastery is nearby and welcomes monks and nuns. Have a walk through the tiny forest with its arched wooden bridge and pond so quiet that, looking back on the pictures, I wondered longly whether they were a reflection or not…

…At the back, you will find a small garden dedicated to prayers, Gods statues, symbolic coins in offering, pictures of loved ones to be protected…

A zen and regenerating walk…

Buddhapadipa
14 Calonne Road
Wimbledon Parkside
London
SW19 5HJ

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