The object of the Society is to publish and to make known the principles of Buddhism and to encourage the study and practice of those principles.

The Buddhist Society holds lectures, classes and activities in the teachings of the major Schools and traditions of Theravada, Zen and Tibetan Buddhism. (Southern, Mahayana and Vajrayana). There are also general practice classes in meditation open to the public as is the ‘Introducing Buddhism‘ class, which offers the newcomer an introduction to the whole field of Buddhism.

There are also classes and lectures for members only (indicated with *); these include ‘ The Fundamentals of Buddhism’, an ‘Intermediate Course’ and ‘Themes of the Great Way’, a course on ‘Indian Mahayana’.
These cover the history and development of Buddhism within the Indian sub-continent prior to its spread throughout Asia and its division into national Schools and Traditions as we know them now.

There is a public lecture arranged on a Wednesday evening at least once a month. This is given by a distinguished speaker and covers a wide range; the principles and practice of Buddhist life, art and culture.
The programme is arranged as the year progresses, so you are invited to obtain the latest details from the website or by telephoning the Society’s office.

The Summer School is the major residential event of the year when the theme ‘Deeper into Buddhism’ explores the shared fundamentals of all Buddhism through teachings and practice.
Held in the beautiful Cotswold countryside, this annual one-week residential Summer School is available to all.

There are three special celebratory days in the Society’s calendar when everyone is invited to come and celebrate, this usually consists of a short talk on the Dharma or relevant topic, followed by a tea party when we all get a chance to meet.

1. Anniversary Day (November)
2. Founder’s Day (April)
3. Buddha Day (May)