Fitzrovia Chapel — Attraction in London

This Grade II listed chapel was once the a place of quiet contemplation and prayer for staff and patients of the Middlesex Hospital which closed in 2005 and was eventually knocked down to make way for the new Fitzroy Square development, London's newest square. Following a spectacular £2m refurbishment, the chapel has been lovingly restored to its former glory of sparkling gold leaf and gleaming Byzantine marble. The opening times vary, and it is worth checking the website, but I would urge you to step into this oasis of architectural splendour from the busy streets of Fitzrovia. The chapel was designed by John Loughborough Pearson, a celebrated Victorian Gothic Revival architect, who also worked on Truro Cathedral, Two Temple Place and St.Augustine's, Kilburn. The gilding is simply stunning, inspired by St.Mark's, Venice, and the marble is no less impressive, with seventeen different types, including a rare Irish green bog marble. The many details are breath-taking, from the windows of the baptistery which commemorate several saints who were also soldiers - Joan of Arc, George, Alban and Martin, to the green marble font which is a copy of that in Hagia Sophia, Istanbul. The ante-chapel is lined with white memorial slabs, a fitting tribute to the many men and women who dedicated their lives to the service of others in their work at the hospital. The current building is managed by a charitable trust whose aim is to open it on regular occasions for private contemplation as well as organising special lectures and readings, music recitals and exhibitions. The atmospheric space will also be available for private hire for special events. It truly is a gift to the people of Fitzrovia, London and beyond and worth making a special...

A Most Extraordinary Place! Historical splendour in a non-religious venue.

We feel so very lucky to have found the Fitzrovia Chapel for our wedding. It is a hidden gem, tucked away in central London just a few minutes’ walk from Oxford Street. Though modest in proportions, this non-religious venue, has the absolute splendour of a grand cathedral. It has the most exquisite, almost luminous Byzantine-Gothic mosaic interiors, with soaring rib-vaulted ceilings (MUST BE SEEN). It’s also surrounded by a lovely contemporary courtyard/garden. All fantastic for photographs. The Fitzrovia Chapel was the perfect size for our small wedding (though the main room can seat up to 80 guests if required). The team at the Fitzrovia Chapel - everyone from Madeline to Marion, and Vaida – couldn’t have been more friendly and helpful; going out of their way to make sure that things ran smoothly. From the first call we made to Madeleine, to the personal tour of the Fitzrovia Chapel with Marion, right through to raising a toast after our ceremony, we were extremely well looked after and made to feel at ease. The Fitzrovia Chapel really is a unique and exquisite venue, and we have the most wonderful memories (and photos) to cherish as a result! We can’t recommend it highly enough – and give our sincere thanks to the entire Fitzrovia...

I got married at the Fitzrovia Chapel at the end of November after looking for a venue in London that was intimate and full of character. I had visited the chapel before to see an exhibition so I was familiar with the space but just to be sure I returned to look around with a view to booking it for my wedding. Despite my nerves, on the day everything ran very smoothly owing to the help of the very professional and experienced staff. The building looked magical with the lights reflecting in the gold mosaics. Our friends and family felt very close when we were making our vows which provided a sense of support and connection. When you are inside for the service, the room also feels very private and detached from surrounding busy London. I was determined not to get married in a cold, impersonal town hall registry office. Fitzrovia Chapel provided an ideal alternative for a very memorable occasion in a charming, historic building. I would highly recommend the venue...