Octagon Chapel

Octagon Chapel is a Grade II* listed building with an eight-sided structure designed in Neo-Palladian style featuring Georgian details on Colegate in Norwich. Large windows dominate the walls and flood the interior with daylight, creating a bright and ordered spatial experience.

Thomas Ivory completed this building in 1756 as a Presbyterian chapel for worship. The congregation shifted to Unitarianism over time and has continued to use the space as its religious home ever since.

The chapel serves the Unitarian community as a gathering place and retains its religious significance in local life. Visitors can observe how the congregation uses the space for weekly meetings and various activities that shape their shared life.

The chapel sits on Colegate, a central location in Norwich's city center, making it straightforward to reach on foot. Since it functions as an active religious gathering place, checking opening times before your visit helps ensure the space is available for viewing.

Edward Taylor, who served as the chapel's organist for many years, composed a collection of Psalm and Hymn melodies in 1812 specifically for this congregation. This work reflects a musical tradition that took root and developed within these walls over time.

Location: Norwich

Website: http://ukunitarians.org.uk/norwich

GPS coordinates: 52.63350,1.29520

Latest update: December 12, 2025 14:21