Where Souls Meet
& Stories Unfold
A sanctuary for transformation in the heart of the Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire
Welcome to the ASHA Centre, an enchanting English estate in the Forest of Dean. ASHA's tranquil spaces and stunning gardens provide the perfect and meaningful backdrop for special events, celebrations, gatherings and educational programmes.
Being at ASHA transforms lives. A safe haven, holding sacred space for authentic connection, acknowledging the diversity of human experience, honouring the natural world and enabling ethical action. By choosing ASHA, visitors will be supporting ASHA's international charity ensuring that young people from every country, faith and community will experience self-awareness, understanding of others and a deeper affinity to nature and her healing powers.
The Uniqueness of ASHA
Every celebration is unique, every gathering has its own rhythm. Here are some of the beautiful ways our spaces come alive.
English Country House
The ASHA Centre is a beautifully restored Georgian house, full of character and charm. Steeped in history, the building carries the timeless elegance of its era, with tall sash windows, high ceilings, and graceful proportions. Inside, every room feels warm and welcoming, blending period details with a sense of light and space.
The rooms are beautifully appointed, each with its own unique atmosphere. Some are bright and airy, opening out to views of the surrounding gardens, while others have a more intimate and cosy feel, perfect for reflection or conversation. The tasteful furnishings highlight the natural beauty of the Georgian architecture, creating an environment that feels both inspiring and peaceful.
Altogether, the ASHA Centre offers not just accommodation or meeting space, but an experience of staying in a house that carries both history and heart, where beauty and comfort come together in harmony.
Peace Pavilion
The Peace Pavilion at the ASHA Centre is a sanctuary designed for stillness, healing, and connection. Surrounded by nature, it offers a light-filled, tranquil space where people can step away from the busyness of life and return to a sense of inner balance.
It is an ideal setting for yoga, inviting the body to move with intentionality and presence, supported by the natural harmony of the environment. Gentle or dynamic, each practice feels enhanced by the Pavilion’s calm atmosphere.
The space is also perfectly suited for breath work, allowing participants to journey inward, releasing tension and awakening clarity. With each conscious breath, the Pavilion seems to hold and amplify the energy of renewal.
Above all, the Pavilion is a place where energy flows freely – uplifting, grounding, and nourishing. Whether through yoga, meditation, or group gatherings, it provides a sacred space for peace, transformation, and connection.
The Gardens of ASHA
The gardens of the ASHA Centre are a living expression of peace and beauty. Designed with care and reverence for nature, they offer a sanctuary where visitors can wander, reflect, and reconnect with the rhythms of the earth.
Every corner of the grounds holds its own character – from winding pathways lined with flowers to open lawns that invite rest and conversation. Ancient groves of trees provide shade and strength, while vibrant seasonal blooms bring colour and fragrance to the air. Hidden nooks encourage quiet contemplation, while wide vistas open the heart to a sense of freedom and space.
More than just a landscape, the gardens are a place of healing. They invite stillness, inspire creativity, and hold the spirit of community and renewal. Whether walking in solitude, gathering for dialogue, or simply sitting in silence, the Asha gardens offer an experience of harmony between people and the natural world.
Retreats, Weddings & Celebrations
The ASHA Centre is a place of beauty, harmony, and celebration. Set within an elegant Georgian house and surrounded by breathtaking gardens, it offers an unforgettable setting for weddings, celebrations, and retreats.
For weddings, the ASHA Centre provides an atmosphere of timeless romance. The Georgian architecture, tranquil gardens, and peaceful ambiance create the perfect backdrop for a day filled with love and joy. Whether for an intimate gathering or a larger celebration, the house and grounds offer both charm and grace.
For celebrations of all kinds – anniversaries, birthdays, or milestones – ASHA holds space where moments become memories. Every room and garden path carries a sense of warmth and welcome, making guests feel cherished and at ease.
For retreats, the ASHA Centre is a sanctuary. With its Peace Pavilion, beautiful rooms, and restorative gardens, it is an ideal setting for yoga, meditation, creative workshops, or simply time away for renewal. The combination of nature, history, and heartfelt care makes it a place where transformation feels natural.
At the heart of every wedding, celebration, or retreat at the ASHA Centre is the same essence: beauty, peace, and connection.
The Spirit of ASHA
Lives are changed at ASHA. A sanctuary, holding sacred space for authentic connection, that acknowledges the diversity of human experience, honours the natural world and is a catalyst enabling ethical action. By choosing ASHA, visitors will be supporting the ASHA international charity ensuring that young people from every faith and community and diverse backgrounds will experience personal transformation.
The Uniqueness of ASHA
Spending time at ASHA will actively help to champion the lives of young people. ASHA called a 'mini paradise', has an outstanding record in supporting young people who have been deprived of life’s many splendid opportunities due to their social background, sexual orientation, racial ethnicity, and the cruelty of modern day slavery and trafficking. When you bring your retreat, communities and business to ASHA, you are supporting social justice and impacting with active vision and generosity.
The Meaning of ASHA
ASHA has multiple meanings. In Sanskrit and Hindi, it translates as Hope. In Hebrew, it means fortunate, and in Arabic, Swahili, it means life and one who lives well. In Persian, adornment and beauty. In the Zoroastrian faith, it is the cosmic principle of order, justice, righteousness and truth.
"It all began with a vision to empower the powerless and enlighten the powerful. The ASHA Centre is a mini paradise on earth, where people are enriched and Mother Nature is cherished."
— Zerbanoo Gifford, Founder
www.zerbanoogifford.org
When You Choose ASHA
ASHA is a registered charity. When you book and celebrate with ASHA you support ASHA’s youth programmes, empowering disadvantaged and diverse groups to realise their own potential whilst fostering joy. Create positive and lasting change in the world by supporting ASHA
Charitable Impact
Every celebration directly supports our youth programmes and community initiatives
Fabulous Energy
Stunning natural beauty, stepped in ancient wise energy with access to St. Anthony's sacred Well
Sustainability
Unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable practices
An international charity working for equality and empowerment in the fields of sustainable development, personal growth, the arts and interfaith, intercultural dialogue.
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Contact
The ASHA Centre
Lower Spout Lane
Gloucestershire
GL17 0EA
+44 (0) 7468 165 098
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