Who are we?
At The Place by the Water, we offer a welcoming space for retreat, rest, fellowship, teaching, training, and discipleship, all fuelled by the warmth of a log fire and plenty of homemade cake. Here, we create a sense of community and belonging through shared meals and life together, whether it’s a quiet time of prayerful reflection or lively kids building dens in the garden. Open to individuals, families, church communities, and leadership teams, we celebrate the diversity of our guests and tailor our events to meet you where you are in life. Everyone is truly welcome to connect, worship, and explore more about our Heavenly Father and His plans for each of us!
Worship
We believe that worship is a central part of our community life, and we’re excited to offer unique opportunities for fellowship and spiritual growth.
Sunday Suppers is our family worship event that begins with a shared meal, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for everyone. As we gather, we enjoy food and great company before moving into a time of worship and reflection. Each week, we explore a different Bible story, allowing us to dive deeper into God’s Word and experience His presence together as a family.
Another opportunity to worship in a different way is through The Well, our fortnightly gathering where we come together to eat cake, watch episodes of The Chosen, and engage in thoughtful discussion. This time is not only about enjoying a time of worship, but also about connecting with one another as we explore the Scriptures. Each session includes reading the Bible verse related to the clip, helping us draw deeper insights and applications from the story of Jesus and His disciples. There is time for discussion and open conversation.
Together, these worship experiences foster a sense of community, encourage spiritual growth, and invite everyone to encounter God in meaningful ways.
Mission and outreach
Our mission is to share the love of Jesus with our community through hospitality, connection and the opportunity to gather together. Our outreach events are designed to create welcoming spaces where people of all ages and backgrounds can come together, build relationships, and experience God’s love in action.
Our events include a variety of fun and meaningful activities, such as our popular Bark and Brunch pop up café for local dog walkers, our craft café for those who love to be creative and our photography workshops, which give people the chance to express themselves and learn new skills.
Nature enthusiasts and families can join in our Woodland Fun adventures and den building, while those who enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere can unwind at our family events or take part in our seasonal Garden Parties. We also host Light Parties as a fun and positive alternative to Halloween, providing a safe and joyful space for families to celebrate.
Through all of these events, our focus is on building community, offering hospitality, and sharing the light of Jesus with everyone who walks through our doors.
Teaching
The Place by the Water has designed a series of courses and workshops to help you deepen your faith and walk more closely with God. These sessions also provide practical ways to live out your faith, whether you come on your own or as part of a group. There is space to reflect and connect with others. Some of our teaching opportunities include:
Additionally, we offer Sunday Suppers, a time of fellowship and sharing where we come together to break bread and discuss faith in a relaxed, welcoming environment.
Retreat
Here at The Place by the Water, we have created a peaceful Christian day retreat centre where you can escape the busyness of everyday life and find rest for your soul. Our retreats are designed to provide a safe and nurturing environment for reflection, renewal, and spiritual growth. We cater for everyone, whether you're seeking quiet solitude or a shared experience with a group.
We provide comfortable spaces indoors and beautiful outdoor areas to explore, where people are able to explore and have the freedom to make this retreat their own. Homemade meals are lovingly prepared and included, allowing you to focus on resting and reconnecting. There is also the option for local walks, craft materials, photography and bible journalling.
While The Place by the Water is open to everyone, it's also ideal for members of clergy and church leaders in need of time to rest, renew and refocus their sense of purpose. Here, you’ll find the space and support you need to return to your calling with a fresh perspective.
Additionally, we offer a compassionate listening ear and guidance as you process your thoughts and feelings if required. If you desire prayer support, our team is here to pray with you, ensuring that you feel encouraged and uplifted during your stay.
A Developing Team
As we grow rapidly we are developing a ministry team to support in prayer, teaching, events and leadership. We continue to develop a full-time ministry at the Place by the Water. This would include women’s outreach, family fellowship and support, and youth ministry – which is growing as we engage with more churches requiring space and support for young people’s mission.
We support people at every stage of discipleship from the first questions about God through to teaching and developing and deeper faith and encouraging them to share this faith with others. It is exciting to be able to work alongside churches and organisations in order to grow God’s amazing miraculous kingdom
There are many tasks that volunteers participate in to support our work, from gardening and decorating and general maintenance to administration and finance. We would love to hear from you if you are able to help in this way.
Giving
The Place is costly to run in terms of rent, heating and other commitments. You can donate via the Parish Giving Scheme. Every penny goes directly to the work of Place by the Water
Praying
Take time in Prayer – which underpins all we do. We are asking people to commit to pray regularly for the ministry here, and for God’s will to be done in this place.
To book events or retreats, receive our prayer news and be kept informed of events and other news please drop an email to Kathy Wilson at theplacebythewater@gmail.com
