Wesley's Chapel and Museum of Methodism

John Wesley, 1703 - 91, was one of the most important figures in English Christian history. Disillusioned by the Anglican Church, Wesley sought to restore the original doctrines of Christ.

The founder of the Methodist Church, he travelled and preached all over England and the USA, In 1739 Wesley bought an old workshop in City Road and converted it into the Foundery Chapel, this was replaced with present chapel in 1777.

Wesley's Chapel, designed by George Dance the younger, was decorated in spartan style in accordance with Wesley's principles. Although added to and restored, the appearance of the chapel is not very different to that of 1778. In the courtyard is an 1891 statue of Wesley.

The galleried Georgian interior has an east recess for the Classical reredos and altar, and since the 18th century the fittings and adornments have grown in number and richness.

The galleries were once supported by wooden ships' masts donated by George III but these were replaced by polished Jasper columns in the 19th century. Some of the original wooden columns can be seen in the vestibule.

The stained glass is a late Victorian addition, but the Georgian pulpit stands in its original position, although only the top part of the original three-decker, from which John Wesley's well-known brother Charles frequently preached. Charles was a celebrated writer of hymns and his chamber organ is still kept in the Foundery chapel.

Wesley preached here until his death and is buried behind the chapel, and long inscriptions on his tomb record Wesley's extraordinary mission. Baroness Thatcher, Britain's first woman Prime Minister, was married at Wesley's Chapel.

Today, the Methodist church has over 50 million followers world-wide, and in 1984 the Museum of Methodism, illustrating the work of Wesley and the history of Methodism over 250 years, was opened in the crypt. Among the items on display is an oil painting depicting the scene at Wesley's death bed. Films and temporary exhibitions are also held here.

Wesley's house is next door, restored to its original Georgian design. An audio commentary, told from the point of view of Wesley's housekeeper, Elizabeth Ritchie, adds colour to the tour of the house, which has Wesley's furniture, books and other possessions, such as his tricon hat and preaching gown.

Bunhill Fields, just across the City Road, was a burial ground for Nonconformists. Among those buried here are Daniel Defoe, John Bunyan and William Blake, as well as members of the Cromwell family.

Lunchtime recitals and lectures.

Groups of 10 or more must book in advance, and a guided tour is available.