There are probably more Buddhists in Britain than you think. The number has grown rapidly in recent years. The census of 2011 recorded almost 250,000, a significant increase from ten years ago, when the figure was below 150,000. Overall this makes Buddhism the fifth largest minority faith group after Muslims, Hindus, Sikhs and Jews.

A snapshot of this growth can be found at the London Buddhist Vihara, which, founded in 1926, is the oldest Buddhist monastery in the UK. A sign at the entrance reads “A quiet Vihara is a happy Vihara”, but this should not be mistaken for a lack of vitality. On the last Sunday in May, 400 people turned up for Wesak or Buddha Day. Another huge crowd is expected tomorrow to