Dissenters' Chapel, Kensal Green

Dissenters' Chapel is a Nonconformist place of worship built from Portland stone with an Ionic columns at its front entrance, located within Kensal Green Cemetery's grounds. The structure is designated as Grade II* listed, reflecting its architectural and historical importance.

Construction took place between 1831 and 1834, making it London's first purpose-built Nonconformist chapel within a public cemetery. The building survived wartime bombing damage and faced demolition threats decades later but endured through to recent times.

The chapel served communities that worshipped outside the established Church, making it an important gathering place for burial and remembrance practices in Victorian London. It represents how different faith groups claimed space for their own ceremonies.

The chapel sits within the cemetery grounds and can be visited as part of exploring the larger site managed by the Friends of Kensal Green Cemetery. Visitors are welcome throughout the year, though checking on group tours beforehand helps enhance understanding of the building and its significance.

The chapel narrowly escaped demolition in the 1970s and was completely restored in 1997, including the reconstruction of damaged wing structures. This rescue operation brought back to life a building that had endured wartime destruction and long years of decay.

Location: Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea

GPS coordinates: 51.52690,-0.21590

Latest update: December 12, 2025 17:46