Welcome to Ammerdown
Welcome to our sanctuary of peace, set in the heart of beautiful Somerset countryside, just 12 miles south of Bath and 16 miles from Bristol. Offering our guests space and time away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, our retreat centre nestles in the grounds of Ammerdown Park, where our guests can relax in the garden or wander further afield through woodland and open countryside. With home cooked food, forty bedrooms and fully equipped meeting rooms, we are an ideal venue for people to meet together or enjoy an individual stay.
Welcome to the new Pope
This weekend marks the installation of Pope Leo.
The Pope has a dual role. Firstly a responsibility to the Catholic Church worldwide.
He will strive to keep the unity of the church which crosses cultures and international boundaries. There are the traditionalists who want little change and the modernists who will put pressure on him to permit clergy to marry and for women to have a more important role in the church including the ordination of women. Personally, I hope he will be an ecumenist.
Secondly, the Pope is also a Head of State - although Vatican City is the smallest country in the world by land area - and relates to world leaders and through these meetings and international visits is able to use soft power very effectively.
The world is facing many issues- such as the war in Ukraine, the war and humanitarian crisis in Gaza, and the difficult situation in Sudan. There is much poverty in the world and the plight of migrants is a growing concern.
Pope Leo has already called for peace and is committed to social justice which are Ammerdown values.
We send our warmest greetings to Pope Leo as he begins his Papacy.
Latest News

Soul of Leadership - New Programme begins 5th January 2026!
https://www.ammerdown.orgSoul of Leadership is an inspiring and enriching 18-month programme for anyone in a leadership role who wishes to deepen their inner resources to lead with long-term effectiveness and integrity.
Leaders today face particularly difficult challenges. The commitment to inspire others while also increasing productivity and balancing the needs of their organisation can leave leaders feeling depleted. Long hours and countless demands often result in a deep need for renewal.
This programme is for anyone facing difficult leadership challenges, and for those who are looking for a fresh approach to leadership amidst longer working hours and increasing demands.
For more information see our What's On page.
Safeguarding
We take safeguarding of children and vulnerable adults very seriously at the Ammerdown Centre.
If you have a safeguarding concern please contact our Safeguarding Officer, Stuart Burgess