The Old Baptist Chapel in Tewkesbury has a rich history, beginning as a fifteenth-century home for a wealthy family. By the mid-seventeenth century, it became a gathering place for Baptists, making it possibly the oldest surviving Baptist site in England. In the 1700s, it was transformed into a visible chapel. In 1805, once again converted into a smaller chapel and two cottages.
Restored in the 1970s and renovated again in 2015-2016, the chapel now offers a welcoming space with modern amenities while preserving its historic charm. Visitors can enjoy an introductory talk followed by free-roam access to explore its fascinating history, enhanced by a touchscreen and replica items. Monthly events bring the chapel’s past to life.
Summer opening: 1 February to 31 October
Tuesdays & Saturdays plus bank holidays, 10am - 1pm and 2pm - 5pm (last entry at 4.30pm)
Weds – Fri: If we have staff available we will happily open the Chapel for you, please ring before you visit.
Winter opening:
Most Saturdays + bank holidays, 10am - 1pm and 2pm - 5pm (last entry at 4.30pm)
If you are travelling a distance to see the chapel, we would recommend giving us a call beforehand to confirm the opening times at 01684 297174. Thank you.
ADMISSION FEES:
Admission to the Old Baptist Chapel only:
Adult - £3.00
Concessions - £2.00
Child over 5 - £1.00
Admission to John Moore Museum, Merchant’s House & Old Baptist Chapel:
Adult - £6.00
Concessions - £4.50
Child over 5 - £2.00
Tewkesbury has many small cut throughs between houses and we were drawn to this one as the Baptist chapel had been just recently renovated. A small place with friendly volunteers who know the history of the chapel and it's baptistry (mind where you tread) like the back of their hand. A real revelation. There is also a small graveyard at the back of the chapel with tombstones in tight formation....
We paid to see the Baptist Chapel across the road which is used for meeting etc now but still has the baptising pit used before this chapel was taken over by this museum and modernised. Lastly we went to the Baptist Chapel grave yard which is down over looking the river. Worth Finding and making a visit to see how old Tewkesbury folks lived.
The old baptist church and cemetery was lovely. Very interesting and informative, as well as the house and museum.