About Us

We are a friendly Buddhist meditation centre near Clapham Common welcoming people from all backgrounds and all beliefs. London Shambhala combines the traditions of Tibetan Buddhism with a modern, non-sectarian approach where ancient wisdom is also explored from a secular perspective without gods or gurus.

Meditation is at the heart of our practice and we offer introductory courses and drop-in sessions with instruction for beginners. Following on from this is a wide range of talks and programmes that explore the rich heritage of Buddhist teachings with an emphasis on their application to contemporary life.

The London Shambhala Centre is inspired by the teachings of Chögyam Trungpa Rinpoche and Pema Chödrön and offers talks and events that are suitable for all, including beginners, along with a graduated series of weekend and evening classes and courses for those wishing to deepen their practice. Regular non-residential city retreats are programmed, alongside week-long retreats in the beautiful Welsh and Cornish countryside.

We are happy to welcome you on any basis, whether you would like to simply attend an open evening or course as a participant, or become more involved with the centre by playing a part in helping support these activities – for example, by preparing tea for an open evening drop-in session, or staffing or cooking lunch, etc. for a course.

At any of our courses or open sessions, there is always somebody on hand to answer any questions you may have.

Video: What are the Shambhala Teachings and What is their relation to Buddhism 

Click here for a statement regarding Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche

A statement from the London Shambhala Centre on US racist murder of George Floyd is available here

Please click here for a two statements, the first is by a group of Acharyas (senior teachers in the Shambhala lineage) that have decided to step down from their post, dated 5 July 2020.  The second is from our London based Acharya sharing news of his resignation, dated 8 July.

Shambhala London Operational Structure

Click here if you would like to know more about how we work, and how you can play a more active role in the running of the centre.

What people have said about the centre:

“Feels peaceful from the moment you come in and are greeted with a warm smile”

“Relaxed, focused and enabling so that even the more cynical of minds can pass and engage with the process”

“Welcoming, warm and un-fussy”

“Very calming!”

We are committed to cultivating safe spaces and transparency within Shambhala. Please follow this link to get more information on our efforts.