BANGKOK, Thailand – To mark 170 years of diplomatic relations between Thailand and the United Kingdom, the British Embassy in Bangkok is proud to announce its support to Wat Buddhapadipa in its 60th anniversary through a Thot Pha Pa.
Both Thailand and the UK are home to rich and distinct religious traditions, and both societies value openness and tolerance. Supporting Wat Buddhapadipa is part of a broader commitment to celebrating the diversity of faiths and beliefs that thrive in our communities.
Mark Gooding, British Ambassador to Thailand, says “In our 170th year of diplomatic relations it’s important to recognise the shared history and shared future of our two nations. We are honoured to be supporting Wat Buddhapadipa in its efforts to restore the temple’s roof, ensuring the continued exchange of our cultures and provision of a spiritual hub for the 50,000 Thai community in the UK.”
Phra Ratchawithetpanyakhun, Abbot of Wat Buddhapadipa in London, says “We are grateful for the support of the British Embassy to Wat Buddhapadipa. The restoration of the temple will stand as testament to the strong ties and shared values between the UK and Thailand.”
In keeping with Thai Buddhist tradition, the British Embassy is supporting the temple’s charitable initiative through a Thot Pha Pa —a customary way of giving to temples in Thailand. Symbolically, this Thot Pha Pa also reflects our broader commitment to the continued progress and partnership between the UK and Thailand. In a world facing many challenges, we reaffirm our dedication to working together for a shared and peaceful future.
As part of the 170th anniversary celebrations, the British Embassy will host a concert performed by The Band of His Britannic Majesty’s Royal Marines on 14th June 2025 at Vajiravudh College. The funds raised through the Thon Pha Pa will go toward restoring the temple’s roof—preserving this cultural landmark for future generations.
About Wat Buddhapadipa
Founded in 1965, Wat Buddhapadipa was the first Thai Buddhist temple established in the UK. This year, it celebrates its 60th anniversary. The temple serves as a spiritual and cultural hub for the UK’s Thai community—estimated at around 50,000 people—as well as a centre for intercultural learning and religious understanding. Each week the temple hosts around 300 visitors, from local schools and other parts of the community, to learn about Buddhism and Thailand.
Wat Buddhapadipa is also a significant example of Thai material culture in the UK. The temple houses a 650-year-old Buddha image from the Sukhothai period, gifted by His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej in 1966. Its ordination hall, adorned with exquisite Thai Buddhist murals, stands as a rare example of traditional Thai architecture in the West. Wat Buddhapadipa is a registered charity located in Wimbledon, South London.
