Chapel of St Lawrence

St Lawrence Chapel has been at the heart of Warminster for 750 years. It was established in the 1290s. The maiden Hewett sisters endowered it. It was seized in 1549 by the crown and sold. (King Edward VI). The main bell continued to ring daily to announce the town's curfew times (This tradition continues). The town bought the Chapel in 1575. It was then held in Trust by 12 Feoffees (Trustees). The tower is the oldest part of the building, with many original 13th-century features. The Chapel has been extensively altered throughout the centuries. In 1855, a row of cottages in front of the Chapel were demolished. The Nave was rebuilt, the entrance moved from the side to the front, and a new porch was constructed. Although the Chapel is independent (A non-royal Peculiar), St Denis and Christ Church in Warminster provide clergy to support regular Church of England services. We are interdenominational (Any Christian Faith can hold services). Currently, we offer both CofE and a monthly Orthodox service. As well as other events. The Chapel is an important religious and community space, offering a wide variety of events. We rely entirely on donations, grants for larger projects, bequests, fundraising by the Friends of the Chapel and rental income from a cottage to the rear of the Chapel. Currently, we're restoring the Chapel's historic clock (Originally made in Warminster). The Chapel has provided the town’s main clock and chiming bells for almost 400 years. We also have a unique Organ

Timings

Saturday 12 September:

1000-1600

Location & directions

St Lawrence Chapel, High Street, Warminster, Wiltshire, BA12 9AG

Contact on day:

Ian Frostick

Telephone number:

+447776297740

Booking information

Pre-booking requirement:

Pre-booking not required

Accessibility details

The principal attraction is the Curfew Clock, which is housed in the tower and not therefore very accessible.

Additional information

The tower part of the Chapel tour isn’t suitable for individuals with limited mobility. Tours are available on the day as needed.

Max number of people:

10

Estimated duration:

20 minute(s)

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