The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 9 letter word SANCTUARY
I've seen this crossword clue in The Times
S
A
N
C
T
U
A
R
Y
Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "refuge" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case refuge = sanctuary.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does SANCTUARY mean?
SANCTUARY noun- A place of safety, refuge or protection.
- An area set aside for protection.
- A state of being protected, asylum.
- The consecrated (or sacred) area of a church or temple around its tabernacle or altar.