The oldest surviving non-denominational chapel in Europe, and Hosking’s only surviving public building, is now a picturesque ruin on the brink of being lost without immediate action
Grade II-listed, 1840, William Hosking
The chapel in Abney Park is significant as both the oldest surviving non-denominational chapel in Europe and the only surviving public building by the architect William Hosking. Built in an adaption of Early English Gothic, the chapel, with its 120-foot steeple, makes an important contribution to one of London’s ‘magnificent seven’ cemeteries, offering important amenities to the bereaved while also providing a focus for its various pedestrian routes. Despite this, the site has become overgrown in recent years and the chapel has suffered from occasional vandalism, with the catacombs’ contents even scattered across the floor. In 2012, ownership of the cemetery passed to the local council, who decided to secure access to the chapel for safety reasons. The Victorian Society is calling on the new owners to work with the Abney Park Trust to repair the chapel and identify a new, sustainable use.
Status Update / March 2026
A major project to restore and improve access to the cemetery was completed in 2024, thanks to funding from Hackney Council and the National Lottery Heritage Fund. The newly restored chapel, featuring a new stained-glass window designed by Piotr Franc, has now been reopened as a venue for weddings and events. The community benefit aspect of the scheme included the addition of new seating at mezzanine level, accessible toilet facilities, mains electricity, and atmospheric lighting. Architecturally, the building benefits from new stone door surrounds, structural alterations including crack stitching, brick repairs and replacements, masonry cleaning and anti-graffiti coating, and new internal lime render throughout. The council now manages the cemetery as a public park in partnership with the Abney Park Trust, a local volunteer-led charity.