Hidden gem is already making a difference
Scarborough’s Londesborough Lodge is undergoing a massive transformation. But unbeknown to many people in the town, part of that transformation is already complete.
The historic Grade II listed building, which is tucked away in the peaceful surroundings of The Crescent, is already operating in its new guise as a wellbeing centre.
The former family home, built in 1839, was transferred to Buddhist charity The Rokpa Trust by Scarborough Council in June 2013 as part of the community asset transfer process.
Work has been under way since then to restore the building to its former glory and give it a new purpose for the community.
Ani Tselha, centre manager, explained: “We are all about serving the community.
“There is a lot of stress and anxiety in today’s society and this is somewhere people can come regardless of their beliefs.
“We are finding that many people still don’t know we’re here, or they think it’s just for Buddhists.
“That’s not the case. We’re here for everyone.”
The building is not quite finished, but the ground floor is fully operational, with around 20 classes held each week in yoga, pilates and meditation.
Local therapists are also using the venue as a base for providing treatments such as reflexology and massage.
Yoga teacher Priya Venkatesh said: “It’s a lovely venue. The yoga room is so inviting and it has a very peaceful atmosphere, but it’s also close to town and convenient for people.”
One of Priya’s sessions is for people with movement disorders and is usually chairbased.
She said: “It’s been going really well. It started off for people with Parkinson’s and multiple sclerosis, but we’re getting a range of people now.
“I think the venue is one of the attractions for people. Many of them have stories about coming here years ago.”
Therapist and yoga teacher Jennie Orrah teaches an early morning yoga class, which has the added bonus of the sun coming up through the studio window.
She said: “I love it here. I’ve been at gyms before but it’s too noisy. It’s not the right environment for yoga.
“But the room here is so peaceful and people really like it.”
The centre has also attracted many volunteers, who have been instrumental in carrying out the mammoth task of restoring this huge listed
Around 20 classes a week are held in yoga, pilates and meditation
An army of volunteers has been working on the building
building.
One of those is Amy Gibb, 26, who has been helping out at the centre for the past six months.
She said: “My first job was pulling down a wall and I’ve done lots of painting and decorating.
“Now I will come in and do anything really, whether it’s making posters, doing promotion work or making tea and coffee.
“I’m really quite proud of it and I’ve really enjoyed doing it.
“We’ve preserved the original features and I’ve learnt so much.”
Amy explained that under the guidance of the project manager, the vast majority of the restoration work has been carried out by volunteers.
She added: “I love it. I’ve got a lot from this centre and its environment. It’s a great team and we’re like a family here.
“I’ve taken a lot from it and it’s helped me become a better person.
“I’ve brought friends along too and they say they can see why I like it so much.”
Amy said she is keen to get the word out about Londesborough Lodge, as many people still don’t know it’s there.
She said: “I feel like so many people in Scarborough could benefit from it.
“Lots of people seem to have preconceived ideas about the place, so it’s about breaking down barriers.”
The centre is open to visitors from 9am to 4pm Monday to Friday and there is usually someone available to answer questions and chat to.
There is also a selection of leaflets and timetables about the various classes on offer.
People can also email any queries to admin@yorkshire.samye.org
The next stage of the renovation to be completed will be the residential rooms upstairs, which will be available to let from September.
The basement level is still being converted and will feature a wholefood cafe, yoga studio and education centre.
A disabled lift is also being fitted to ensure access to al levels.
The basement should be ready in 12 months’ time, when a grand opening celebration will be held.
Ani said: “We encourage everyone to come and visit us and see what we have on offer.
“We are open to everyone, regardless of their beliefs – the centre is for everyone.
“It is already benefitting people and has helped many people turn their lives around.
“It started off as a building but it has become so much more than that.”