Capel Salem

Capel Salem is a Baptist chapel dating from 1878. It is constructed of local sandstone with Bath stone dressings, and approached via a ramp and bridge.

The main west-facing front is divided into three bays, with a slightly recessed central panel rising to a rounded pediment. The central panel contains twin doors, a group of three round-headed windows above, and a circular feature – formerly a roof ventilator – bearing the inscription "Salem Baptist Chapel 1878". Very tall round-headed windows flank the central panel. The side elevations have four similar round-headed windows, with continuous sills running along their base. Basement level windows are segmentally headed. A tall, oblong extension accommodates the organ at the east end. The main door and window joinery was replaced with modern frames around 1990.

The small entrance lobby features symmetrical doors and a staircase to the gallery. The stair landings have four-panel doors, with plain wall-mounted handrails. Baize-covered double doors lead to the main interior. An interior window has three round-headed panes with coloured margin lights. The main interior has remained largely unaltered since the chapel’s opening. The pews are arranged in four blocks with two passages, and a staggered central division; the front pews face the pulpit. Pew ends are marked with painted numbers. A large set fawr features a moulded top rail, curved corners, and decorative painted iron standards. The pulpit is exceptionally large, with a similar rail on standards at the front; the lectern and lower stage are panelled. A baptismal pool is located below the pulpit floor. A gallery is present on four sides, supported by seven fluted cast-iron columns with floral caps. The gallery front has broad panels with perforated cast-iron inserts, and curves at the corners, sweeping down slightly behind the pulpit. A central clock is also present. The pews leading to the gallery are strongly raked. All interior joinery is made of pine. The organ, housed in a recess with a raised roof level and a mahogany, panelled case, is a prominent feature. The ceiling is plain, with diagonal ribs and a central decorative feature.

At the east end are a deacons' room and utility rooms, served by a side entrance at basement level and a plain cross staircase. A small continuation staircase leads to the organ loft. A vestry and schoolroom are located in the basement, accessed via the side entrance. There are eleven round cast-iron columns with a slight taper, arranged in four rows.