Chowbent Unitarian Chapel

Chowbent Unitarian Chapel, originally built as a Presbyterian chapel in 1721 to replace an earlier building from 1645, is a notable example of early 18th-century non-conformist architecture. The chapel is constructed of Flemish bond brick with stone dressings and features a slate roof. The front elevation is dominated by a two-storey entrance wing added in 1901, which includes a gable pediment, an entrance with a fanlight and keystone, a sundial, a commemorative plaque, and an oculus within the tympanum. The original entrance doors are obscured by abutments on either side.

The side elevations consist of three bays, while the rear has four bays, all resting on a stone plinth with quoins and an eaves cornice supported by shaped brackets. Each bay features a round-arched window that is keyed into a continuous band at both the first and second floor levels. A 19th-century vestry is located to the right of the main structure. The chapel is topped with an elegant open cupola that has a lead roof and a weather-vane.

Inside, the chapel is remarkably well-preserved, featuring a central three-decker pulpit surrounded by box pews on three sides. The pews have raised and fielded panels, with only the rear gallery pews being replaced. Turned oak columns support the gallery, and a second tier supports the roof. There are 18th-century commemorative tablets, including one above the pulpit dedicated to J. Wood, who died in 1759, which has swept sides and is topped by an urn. The vestry door, made of studded oak, has been rehung from the earlier 1645 chapel. The chapel also contains stained glass, some of which was created by Shrigley and Hunt. The interior from 1901 is of high quality, particularly in its timber and glass fittings. Overall, Chowbent Unitarian Chapel is a fine example of early 18th-century architecture that has been well preserved.