Most of the activities of Kineton and District Local History Group involve the past history of the area but the visit in July 2011 was to a building open for less than a year: the Sikh Gurdwara Sahib in Leamington Spa.

The party was greeted by the young man who was to be the guide and the first impression was of the mixture of warmth and reverence that pervaded the building. Everyone, visitors and regular worshippers, removed their shoes, washed their hands and donned head scarves.  The party was first taken to the central worship area, where the Holy Book was being read.  All, even the apparently elderly, sat on the floor relaxed and attentive.  Any children present seemed perfectly at home in the space and free to move around without causing disturbance.  After some minutes the Kineton party too was absorbed by the sense of peace.

The main building is on three floors. When the group ascended to the first floor, musicians were practising and readily showed their instruments and explained them.  The views from this level were impressive; it was a surprise that this particular part of Leamington had so many trees.  As the sun was setting, even the chimneys had a new beauty and were turned to pure gold.

The group then descended to the basement, where they were shown a short film about the history of the Sikhs who fought with the British Army.  They were then led to the dining area where the Sikhs extended their well known hospitality in a delicious light meal.