Finding Peace at Highbury: A Christian Guest House in London – A Guest's Heartfelt Reflection

At Highbury Christian Guest House, we often receive heartfelt messages from our guests, but few have touched us as deeply as the recent letter from Esther, one of our long-time visitors. Her words beautifully capture the essence of what makes Highbury a unique refuge in the midst of a bustling city.

Esther first stayed with us more than 20 years ago, back when we were known as the Foreign Missions Club. Over the years, she has chosen to begin and end her visits to the UK at Highbury, a tradition that speaks volumes about the comfort and peace she finds here.

In her letter, Esther shared a poignant moment from her last stay with us in September of last year. Knowing it would be her final visit to her homeland, she asked her son to capture a photo of the window overlooking our garden—a view that has brought her so much serenity over the years. This window, which she now keeps as a photo in her sitting room, serves as a reminder of the calm and peace she found within our walls.

One particular memory stands out to Esther: sitting in our breakfast room, looking through that very window, and recalling a verse from Matthew Arnold's poem, "Lines Written in Kensington Gardens." The words resonate deeply with the tranquil atmosphere she experienced at Highbury:

"Calm Soul of all things! Make it mine

To feel, amid the city's jar,

That there abides a peace of thine

Man did not make and cannot mar."

These lines perfectly encapsulate the peaceful spirit that Highbury offers—a haven where guests, often arriving tired and stressed, can find renewal and healing.

Esther's letter is a touching reminder of the impact Highbury has on those who stay with us. We are grateful for the memories she shared and for the photo that now connects her to the peace of our garden, even from afar. Her words of gratitude and prayer for our staff fill us with joy and encouragement.

As we continue to serve our guests, we are reminded of the importance of providing not just a place to stay, but a true sanctuary where the soul can find rest. Thank you, Esther, for your beautiful reflection. May you be blessed, and may we continue to be a place of peace for all who walk through our doors.