The Pastoral Centre at Park Place is a unique and attractive location run by the Congregation of the Franciscan Sisters of St Mary of the Angels, in conjunction with the Portsmouth Diocese. The Centre is a resource, not just for the Diocese, but also for the wider community, both Christian and non-Christian. It offers a location where people of all Faiths, or none, can come together to develop their values, facilitated by a temporary withdrawal from the purely material demands of everyday life, and relax in an environment of peace and calm. Hundreds of individuals and groups have used the Centre for Retreats, Conferences, Days of Reflection and Prayer, In-Service Training Courses, Annual General Meetings, School and Youth Group events, Painting and Calligraphy, Yoga sessions and Holidays. The Centre has a unique Indian / Franciscan ambience with its East / West spirituality.

Park Place House is a Grade II listed Georgian building, which over the years has had additions to enable it to develop into different roles. Initially a private home it became a convent school for girls and in 1968 became a Pastoral Centre under the guidance of the then Bishop of Portsmouth, Derek Worlock. The Centre offers a wide range of facilities catering for groups of upto 150 for conferences and upto 60 for overnight accommodation, in twin bedded and single rooms - half of which are en-suite. Assisi House offers separate accommodation for 10 people, all in en-suite rooms. For more details see under “Facilities”. All types of meals can be provided, including vegetarian and Indian options, and the chef has an excellent reputation for the quality and variety of her cuisine.

The Centre is served by a resident Chaplain, who celebrates Mass on weekdays, in the Oratory, and on Sundays, in the large Chapel, for the Sisters and members of the local community. The Centre also has strong relations with other Faith Communities in the area and is regularly involved in ecumenical activities.