Bilsham Chapel, Gothic church in Bilsham, England
Bilsham Chapel is a medieval chapel with a rectangular form built from flint and sandstone, reinforced at the corners with red brick. The simple two-story structure shows building techniques from different periods throughout its construction.
The chapel was founded in the 13th century to serve the parish of Yapton and remained in religious use for centuries. The Reformation around 1551 brought an end to its role as a place of worship, leading to a different purpose.
The building served as a place of worship before being adapted into workers' cottages in 1840, showing how local needs shaped its use over time. This transformation reflects the practical changes in village life during the 19th century.
The chapel sits on Bilsham Lane about three-quarters of a mile southwest of Yapton town center and is easy to spot from the road. Parking is limited in this rural setting, so plan accordingly when visiting the site.
The north wall contains two original pointed-arch windows from the 14th century with distinctive Y-shaped tracery that is rare to find intact. The east wall displays another pointed-arch opening, making these medieval windows the most distinctive features of the building.
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