Guild Chapel Renovation, Conservation, Prayer and Performance
Guild Chapel, Chapel Lane, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, CV37 6BE
- 20th September, 2025
- In person
- Pre-booking not required
Two talks about Stratford-upon-Avon's medieval Guild Chapel. "Change, Renovation and Conservation" focuses on changes to the building over time, and the second, "From Prayer to Performance", describes the different functions the Chapel has performed
Our local experts will deliver two short talks on Stratford-upon-Avon's beautiful medieval Guild Chapel.
The first will consider some of the many changes which have taken place to this ancient building. Visitors will be encouraged to look for signs of the changes still visible in the fabric of the building today. The current building dates from the 15th Century and the completed chapel was highly decorated. Due to the reformation, it was only used for its original purpose for around 50 years. Many changes have taken place since then culminating in the 20th century renovation work carried out under the direction of architect Stephen Dykes Bower. Since this renovation, conservation work has been carried out on the remaining medieval wall paintings.
The second will describe how the Guild Chapel has served several functions over its 700-year life. Originally constructed as an infirmary in the 13th century, it soon became a focus for prayer and charitable activity within the town. The Chapel has survived the upheavals of the English Reformation and the Civil War as well as decades of disuse and neglect. Today, it plays many roles at the heart of Stratford’s community. Still a centre for prayer and peaceful contemplation, it has become a popular visitor destination, famed for its unique medieval wall paintings. It is also a much-loved venue for musical and theatrical performance. This talk will look at how the Chapel has been used - and occasionally abused – over the centuries.
Timings & Tours
Saturday 20 September:
10.30am - 11.30am and 2pm - 3pm. Both talks will be presented at each session.
Location & directions