The Unique Architecture of Walpole Old Chapel
Halesworth Road, Walpole, Halesworth, Suffolk, IP19 9AZ
In a stroke of good fortune, Walpole Old Chapel is undergoing major repairs this year, which reveal exactly how it was built, just when the National Trust chooses ‘Architecture’ as its theme for Heritage Open Days!
The building was converted c1690 from a farmhouse to the unique chapel we still see today. We don’t think an Architect ever went near this conversion. Rather, it was carried out by local carpenters, blacksmiths and builders, using the techniques they had learnt from their forebears. The architectural style is, therefore, ‘vernacular’. And, as a lot of the conversion work involved re-use of older timber, The Chapel has a very home-made look about it.
When you visit The Chapel during this year’s Heritage Open Days, you will be able to see an exhibition showing what was found when the contractors stripped the old render and laths from the West side of the building and how it is now being repaired with appropriate, traditional materials and techniques. Our knowledgeable guides will be on hand to explain further.
Timings & Tours
- Saturday 13 September:
- 10.30 am to 4.30 pm
- Saturday 20 September:
- 10.30 am to 4.30 pm
Location & directions
Halesworth Road, Walpole, Halesworth, Suffolk, IP19 9AZ
- Directions:
- Free parking is available opposite The Chapel
- Contact on day:
- Simon Weeks
- Telephone number:
- +447790518589
Booking information
- Pre-booking requirement:
- Pre-booking not required
Accessibility details
The chapel has steep stairs and changes in floor levels that visitors should be aware of
Additional information
The chapel is undergoing major repair and conservation work. The contractors will not be on site, but parts of the chapel yard will have no access to members of the public.
- Est. tour duration:
- 1 hour(s)
