Chelsea Old Church

Chelsea Old Church is a 16th century church building in Chelsea featuring Gothic architectural forms and a main nave extending eastward. The stone exterior is defined by colored glass windows with biblical scenes that fill the interior with shifting light.

The building first appeared in records in the 16th century and changed its religious status several times between Catholic and Anglican periods. After damage from bombing in the 20th century, it was carefully rebuilt while keeping its historical character.

The church takes its name from the Chelsea neighborhood and has served as a gathering place for the local community across generations. The churchyard with its many gravestones tells the stories of people who lived in this part of London over centuries.

The building sits near the Thames and is reachable on foot from the riverside or from King's Road. Visitors should check opening times beforehand as these vary seasonally and the space may be closed for events.

The churchyard contains the graves of Sir Thomas More and other figures of literary and artistic standing. These burials make the place a quiet memorial site often visited by art historians and literature enthusiasts.

Location: Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea

Inception: 16 century

Website: https://chelseaoldchurch.org.uk

GPS coordinates: 51.48310,-0.17083

Latest update: December 8, 2025 13:40