The Chapel At Former Holloway Sanatorium Virginia Water

The Chapel at the former Holloway Sanatorium in Virginia Water is a Grade II* listed building, constructed between 1882 and 1884 by architect W H Crossland. Originally part of a private lunatic asylum, the chapel is now free-standing and was altered and remodeled internally in 1899-1900 by G F Bodley. It features fine red brick with stone dressings, a rose window, and a crow-stepped gable above the entrance. The sides have three-light traceried windows, and there is a round three-sided apse, all designed in the Franco-Flemish Flamboyant Gothic style.

Inside, the chapel has a rib-vaulted ceiling with stencilled decoration and a west gallery. There is high timber panelling, which has been damaged, also attributed to Bodley. The altar has been removed, and the stained glass is attributable to C E Kempe. Although the chapel was built later than the main asylum building, it was a standard requirement for asylums to have a separate chapel by that time. Holloway Sanatorium was not particularly religious, and initially, worship was intended to occur in the upper hall, which may explain the chapel's elaborate decoration. The chapel's style is reminiscent of Royal Holloway College, reflecting the engagement of Holloway and his trustees in the 1880s. This building serves as a fitting tribute to Holloway's achievements and philanthropy, forming a strong group with the main asylum building.