Congregational Chapel, Ledbury

Hidden away down an alley almost directly behind the Ledbury Market Hall, and overshadowed by other buildings, this former Chapel is not easy to find!

The first chapel on this site was built about 1607, rebuilt in 1749, then replaced by the present building in 1852. The cornice decorating the top of the fascade says it: ‘Rebuilt Anno Domini MDCCCLII’. During the 17th century its congregation included Presbyterians, and one of its ministers is said to have been John Barston, ejected as rector of Aylton.^[1]

It qualifies for an entry in Herefordshire's “Sites & Monuments Record” ^[2] (SMR Number: 16596), where it is described as a United Reformed Church.

This is curious, as the building is understood to have closed for worship “about 1970”, which is before former Congregational Chapels were offered the opportunity to join the United Reformed Chrurch. Perhaps “about 1970” is misleading.

Its present usage is unknown.

(Information provided by Rosemary Lockie)

References
[1] Nonconformist Chapels and Meeting Houses, Central England. HMSO, 1986.
[2] Herefordshire Through Time