St Benet's Chapel, Netherton

St Benet's Chapel is a Grade II* listed Catholic chapel in Netherton, Merseyside, extending at right angles from its presbytery. The building features round-headed sash windows and a bellcote topped with a cross on the west gable.

The chapel was built in 1793 following the Catholic Relief Acts, replacing a cottage and barn previously used by Benedictine priests for worship. This construction marked a shift toward open religious practice after a period of restricted Catholic activity.

The interior features an original west-end gallery with a stick balustrade, while fluted Corinthian pilasters line the east wall, supporting an entablature decorated with urns.

The entrance is positioned at the west end of the north side, and the building remains partially hidden behind the presbytery that faces the road. The best views from the street reach the presbytery front, while the chapel interior is accessed through a secluded entrance.

The marbled altar from the 1830s sits beneath decorative elements including draped curtains that frame a descending dove and cherubs with wings. This ornamental scheme offers a rare glimpse of period ornamentation preserved in a modest-sized chapel.

Location: Sefton

Inception: 1793

Website: http://hct.org.uk/chapels/north-west/st-benets-rc-chapel-merseyside/16

GPS coordinates: 53.49460,-2.96780

Latest update: December 14, 2025 16:41