The Poplars has been our first choice residential centre for years, a place where so many happy memories have been crafted in its beautiful surroundings. The venue is always improving its facilities, and the incredible value makes it unbeatable for residential events. I couldn’t recommend it more highly!
Rev. Pete Wynter
St Paul’s, Hammersmith
As a church we have loved our visits to The Poplars – be they retreats, Alpha weekends or student get togethers. The beauty of the surroundings is conducive to reflection, making and deepening friendships and creating space with God. Dan and the team are so generous and helpful and do such an awesome job of making us feel welcome and relaxed for the duration of our stay. We are big fans!
Tim Hughes
St Luke’s Gas Street, Birmingham
I have been coming to The Poplars with groups from St Ebbe’s for over 25 years. Every corner of the site brings back memories of significant conversations (conversions, spiritual breakthroughs and new resolutions) – and also of lots of fun.
Rev. Vaughan Roberts
Rector of St Ebbe’s, Oxford
Absolutely amazing stay! Had such a great time and the facilities are brilliant. Only wish we could have stayed for longer. Thank you Dan and Kate for being so welcoming.
Hannah
Bristol University Christian Union
There are different ways of meeting the Lord and accepting Him as our Saviour (or even renewing your relationship with Him). Some people meet the Lord in a time of need or desperation, others through being away with a group of people enjoying fellowship and hearing the Word of God – which is what happened to me. On the 18th of September 1999, I was invited to a Christian camp site in South Africa and God’s word spoke to me – during a time away from the daily bustle of life. And so my journey as a Christian began.
This is why I would like to encourage people of all ages to make use of The Poplars, it is a beautiful setting where one can enjoy the beauty of God’s creation and spend quality time away with fellow Christians, whilst also enjoying your own time in God’s presence.
The facilities at The Poplars are well equipped for groups and there are some particularly great outdoor options. The family who run it, Dan & Kate Ritchie are loving people, who have dedicated their lives and The Poplars to the Lord. They will go out of their way to make sure that all feel welcome and are well looked after.
Johan Ackermann
Head Coach, Pro Rugby (Gloucester & Red Hurricanes)
Oh my heart feels so happy when we drive into The Poplars!
Bethany
Aged 7
The Poplars has played a key role in making our Onelife School Of Leadership a success. The welcome from the Ritchie family, the hospitality, the space and the facilities have enabled friendships to be made, key life decisions to be processed and space to meet with God out of the pressure of every day life. Our memories of pool parties, BBQ’s, wide games, discos, karaoke and bonfires also make this site a key part of our calendar year.
Liz Bewley
Director, Onelife
The Poplars is very welcoming and great value.
Richard Cunningham
Director of UCCF
The Poplars is an absolute jewel in the lovely farmland surrounding it. The Christian grace and generosity of Dan and Kate was overwhelming. The accommodation is comfortable, with excellent facilities. We are told that the site holds a particular appeal for younger people – well, this octogenarian couple loved every minute of their stay! It is a wonderful place to escape for a while from the pressures of a busy life, and the costs are deliberately kept down to allow families to come without going broke. We recommend it wholeheartedly to all ages.
Rev. Dr. Michael Green
Theologian, Author and Vicar
We loved The Poplars! The facilities are completely outstanding, the location is wonderful, Dan was a brilliant host and all at a very reasonable cost. Having used many different sites for Christian Camps over the years I can safely say that The Poplars is the best. Most importantly God did some truly remarkable things over the weekend. We cannot wait to return!
Scott Else
Pastor, Newfrontiers
The location and facilities at The Poplars are excellent but what sets it apart, and the reason we will keep returning is the hospitality of Dan and Kate. They work tirelessly to ensure every part of your stay is a success – from practical needs to prayer support they have got you covered from beginning to end and make The Poplars somewhere truly special.
Jo Taylor
The Salvation Army
Thank you so much for having us, we had a wonderful time and will see you next year!
Hannah
Oxford University Christian Union
The Poplars is in a beautiful setting with first class facilities (and a pool!) I felt welcome and refreshed from the first day I came.
Sarah
Highfields Church, Southampton
Excellent time and excellent venue – thank you so much for having us.
Sam
Holy Trinity, Brompton