BUDDHIST TEMPLE UK
Buddhist Temple in the Making at Gomde UK

Overview

In a world that seems to be constantly changing, where the pace of life can leave us feeling disconnected from others, from nature, and even from ourselves, the need for spaces of refuge has never been greater. Thubten Chökor Ling is more than a Buddhist temple; it’s a vision for a better future—a sanctuary that welcomes everyone, offering wisdom, peace, and community when we need it most.

Nestled within the tranquil beauty of the Lindholme Hall Estate in Yorkshire, this extraordinary project is creating a space that bridges ancient traditions with modern needs. Whether you are seeking a quiet place for reflection, a deeper connection to the natural world, or the chance to learn timeless Buddhist teachings to for inner peace, compassion and clarity, Thubten Chökor Ling is a home for all.

Now, with £500,000 already raised toward our Phase 1 milestone of £1 million, we are on the brink of an extraordinary achievement: laying the foundations for Thubten Chökor Ling with works to start in autumn 2025. Your support is vital to bring this vision to life.

Our Vision

Why Build A Buddhist Temple?

• Inspire — With its beautiful design, uplifting presence, and peaceful location, the temple will create an immediate sense of awe and wonder. Set within the rare beauty of the Humberhead Peatlands, it will open hearts and minds from the first moment.
  
  
• Preserve — The temple will serve as a lasting home for the preservation, study, and practice of authentic Buddhist wisdom, while honouring the rich heritage of Tibetan culture and its living traditions.
  
  
• Teach — The temple will become a space for learning, insight and dialogue, where great teachers continue the unbroken tradition of oral transmission — offering profound yet practical guidance to people from all walks of life.
  
  
• Reach — Through partnerships with academic institutions, social enterprises, and local community groups, the temple will support outreach to underserved groups and local communities, providing lifelong learning opportunities. From Buddhist philosophy and meditation to well-being, sustainability, arts, culture, and ethical living, we will offer inclusive programmes, workshops and volunteer opportunities that invite both local and broader communities to engage in ways that are meaningful to them.
  
  
• Gather — The temple will be a place where individuals and families come together in shared purpose. From teachings, retreats, and meditation to open talks and celebrations, the collective energy of gathering will nurture joy, belonging, and meaningful connection.
  
  
• Live — Rooted in values of compassion, awareness, and interdependence, the temple will inspire more ethical and sustainable ways of living. It will reflect not only Buddhist wisdom, but also the unique heritage of our region and the teachings of the land itself.

The temple will help transform lives and livelihoods — fostering cultural diversity, community resilience, and social cohesion, while supporting mental well-being, climate action, and ethical living at a time when these are more vital than ever.

Architectural Design

Set to become a spiritual, cultural, and architectural landmark, the temple will embody traditional Tibetan design, enriched with symbolic detail and the exquisite craftsmanship of this ancient heritage. Built from local Yorkshire limestone, it will harmonise with the surrounding landscape while embracing sustainable practices through energy-efficient systems and responsibly sourced materials — all aimed at durability and minimal environmental impact. Designed to endure for a thousand years, the temple reflects a deep commitment to sustainability and resilience.

​Nestled within a peaceful glade, visitors will ascend nine steps to enter through one of four grand entrances. Inside, three levels rise above ground, each serving a distinct purpose. At the heart lies a majestic shrine hall capable of welcoming up to 1,000 people — a vibrant gathering space for practice, teachings, and celebration, and a living showcase of Tibetan Buddhist art and culture.

​A world-class library will further enrich the temple’s offerings, becoming a cornerstone for the preservation and sharing of Buddhist knowledge and philosophy. Designed to serve scholars, practitioners, and the general public, it will merge ancient wisdom with modern accessibility.

​Architecturally, the temple will feature a striking central glass pavilion leading into a luminous atrium, filling the space with natural light across all levels. The building will be crowned by a golden pagoda roof — a radiant centrepiece that lifts the spirit and elevates the entire structure.

While deeply rooted in tradition, this monumental project at Gomde UK boldly embraces the future. Through its design, purpose, and values, the temple will become a vibrant hub of learning, practice, and community — a living space where people gather, grow, and care for one another and the Earth. In doing so, it will stand as a beacon of peace and hope, nurturing hearts, minds, and the land for generations to come.

Who Will Benefit from the Temple?

• A temple for everyone — Open to all, the temple will offer spiritual, educational, and cultural value for adults, young people, and children across the UK and beyond.
  
  
• Buddhist practitioners — With exemplary teachers and rare facilities, the temple will serve both seasoned practitioners and those new to Buddhism. A resident monastic community will offer year-round teachings, retreats, and authentic guidance.
  
  
• The local community — Through volunteering, workshops, and lifelong learning programmes, local people will find new pathways to personal development, skills training, and even employment. The temple will be a place to connect, grow, and contribute.
  
  
• Local businesses — A landmark destination, the temple will draw thousands of visitors each year supporting local businesses and artisans, supporting the creation of new jobs, and contributing to the area’s economic vitality and long-term prosperity.
  
  
• Academic institutions — A rare resource for interdisciplinary study, the temple will support co-designed curriculums with educators and research in Buddhist philosophy, contemplative science, ecology, ethics, and cultural heritage — creating opportunities for collaboration and knowledge exchange.
  
  
• The environment — Located within a rare peatland ecosystem, the temple’s presence will reinforce long-term conservation efforts and environmental education. As a base for restoration and stewardship, it will help protect biodiversity and promote care for all forms of life.

What has happened so far?

Planning permission was granted in summer 2024, and thanks to generous grassroots donations, over £500,000 has already been raised. Grant applications are underway, build plans have been submitted, and a dedicated design and construction team is in place.

The temple will be built over four years, with each stage designed to reflect heritage authenticity, architectural excellence, and long-term sustainability. Construction is set to begin in autumn 2025, with the temple’s doors expected to open in 2028, following this phased timeline:

• 2025: £500,000 – Building permit, foundations, and steel frame
  
• 2026: £4,000,000 – Enclosure, interior works, and exterior cladding
  
• 2027: £2,000,000 – Landscaping and decorations
  
• 2028: £500,000 – Final works and opening
  
  We aim to raise £1 million by autumn 2025 to progress through the critical first stages: laying the foundations, raising the steel frame, and beginning the enclosure to ensure the structure is water-tight and weatherproof. This forms the structural core of the temple — the essential base on which all else will be built.

Thanks to generous grassroots donations, we’ve already raised £500,000 — halfway to our next milestone. With your support, we can take the next step in bringing this extraordinary project to life.

Join us — Be a part of the Buddhist Temple Build

Together, we can create meaningful and lasting transformation—a gift to the world that reflects the very best of humanity.

​By donating any amount, large or small, you will help make this extraordinary vision a reality: a lasting home for Buddhist wisdom and compassionate action, inspiring calm, kindness, and clarity for generations to come.

​As the first stones of Thubten Chökor Ling are laid in the fertile soil of Yorkshire, they will carry the well wishes and hopes of countless hearts. This temple will stand as a living testament to what we can achieve together when we dream boldly and act with compassion.

​Would you like to join us on this journey? Here are some ways to get involved:

Make a donation
Whether you are able to offer a monthly gift of £10 or a one-time contribution, every act of generosity, no matter how large or small, amplifies the impact of others, bringing this extraordinary vision to fruition.
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Donate

Make a major contribution
If you’re in a position to offer significant support—such as a larger donation, an interest-free loan, or leaving a legacy in your will—you can play a pivotal role in shaping this extraordinary project. Visit our ‘Major Gifts’ page for more details.

Major gifts

Offer your skills or resources
Do you have materials, expertise, or time to offer? Whether it’s construction material, professional talents, or simply a helping hand, your contributions are invaluable. Together, we can demonstrate the extraordinary power of community and collaboration in making this vision a reality.

Offer in-kind contributions

Join as a supporting organisation
Whether you’re able to match donations, offer expertise, or contribute building materials, partnering with us will not only help create a sanctuary of wisdom and compassion but also benefit the local community, celebrate cultural heritage, and showcase sustainable best practices.

Learn more about partnering with us here

Other ways to help
From selling unwanted items in exchange for donations to starting a skill share or fundraiser, there are many creative ways to make a difference.

Explore more ways to help

Spread the word
Share your experiences at Gomde and this vision far and wide—with friends, loved ones, and through social media. Please invite them to sign up for our newsletter, and let them become a part of the exciting vision we’re building together. Your voice has the power to inspire others to join this journey toward a kinder, more peaceful, and meaningful future.

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