Stourbridge’s Historical 18th Century Unitarian Chapel
176 Lower High Street,
Stourbridge,
West Midlands, DY8 1TG
The Chapel is a Grade 2 listed building dated 1788. The interior has changed very little since this date; it still has the original wooden box…
The Chapel is a Grade 2 listed building dated 1788. The interior has changed very little since this date; it still has the original wooden box pews and a small “minstrel gallery” at the back. The wall panelling is from an original Church building from 1698, and it is believed that the pulpit is also from this chapel.
It has a very fine 3 manual organ by Nicholson and Lord of Walsall, installed as long ago as 1913; this was donated by Thomas Grosvenor-Lee. This organ replaced one built by Walker of London in 1865, which was housed in the much-enlarged Chancel added in 1863. The organ pipes remain as a reminder. The décor is simple; the plain windows contain the original glass and the signature of the glassmaker can be seen on one of them. Around the walls can be seen many memorials to earlier congregants, as well as plaques indicating how funds were raised so many years ago.
Visitors may tour the building or simply sit and meditate, listening to gentle recorded music playing in the background; there will be light refreshments available in the vestry, where pictures of significant people in the history of Stourbridge and its chapel will be on display.
Perhaps the highlight of their visit will be when David, our organist, gives short recitals on the 104 year old organ, which produces the most beautiful and sometimes amazing sounds.
Opening Times
- Saturday 9 September: 1100-1600
Booking Details
No booking required
Access Information
Sadly our Chapel, having been in situ for nearly 300 years, is not readily accessible for those with physical limitations, wheelchairs or pushchairs, either externally or internally. The paved area outside is uneven, as are the steps at the entrance, and the aisles are rather narrow. Having said that, some of our members now have limited ability and one is a wheelchair user, and we are able to accommodate their needs. There is a toilet, but the space does not permit a wheelchair. The pulpit is accessed via a staircase. Access to the Minstrels Gallery is not recommended.
Additional information
Stourbridge Unitarian Chapel has a long history, having been founded in the late 17th Century. Originally called Protestant Dissenters or Non-Conformists the principal founders were well-known Stourbridge resident and Presbyterian, Thomas Foley and his Chaplain, the Rev George Flower who had fled from London following The Act of Uniformity 1662, which had made the use of the Book of Common Prayer compulsory in religious service, meaning he was forced to resign his livings.
Originally services were held secretly from 1695, in an upstairs room in the which is now the Talbot Hotel.
Directions
Approaching by car from the ring road, the Chapel is a short distance along the road, on the right-hand side, and it is set back from the road, behind a black painted wrought iron fence. On road parking is advised. To access the building, cross the small paved area to the front door, where there are two small steps. Both the paved area and the steps are slightly uneven, so care is needed.
If using public transport, it is about a ten minute walk from the bus and train interchange, along the High Street to the Town Clock. From the clock continue along Lower High Street for most of its length. The Chapel is situated on your left.
Opening times & full details ►
