Museum of Methodism — Attraction in London

The Museum of Methodism, located at Wesley's Chapel in London, offers a comprehensive insight into the history, impact, and evolution of Methodism, a Christian denomination founded by John Wesley in the 18th century. The museum is a significant cultural and religious site that preserves artifacts, documents, and exhibits related to Methodism’s influence on Britain and the world.

Key Features of the Museum of Methodism

Location and Historical Significance The museum is housed in the crypt of Wesley's Chapel, built by John Wesley in 1778. Wesley's Chapel is often referred to as the "Mother Church of World Methodism" and remains an active place of worship. Adjacent to the chapel is John Wesley's House, a well-preserved Georgian townhouse where Wesley lived for over a decade. This house provides insights into his modest lifestyle and the Georgian era.

Exhibits and Artifacts The museum features several permanent displays that narrate the story of Methodism: "The Warmed Heart": Focuses on John Wesley's spiritual conversion, showcasing his Field Bible in a contemplative space. "Mr Wesley’s New Chapel": Traces the history of Wesley's Chapel using maps dating back to 1746. "Connecting the Connexion": Illustrates Wesley's organizational system for Methodist societies, including membership tickets and prints of Francis Asbury, who played a key role in Methodism’s separation from the Church of England.

Other notable artifacts include: John Wesley's death mask His wooden pulpit from The Foundery Chapel Original letters and archival documents Commemorative pottery and paintings

Interactive Features Visitors can access interactive displays via tablet computers, which provide access to John Wesley’s sermons, Charles Wesley’s hymns, burial records, and other historical documents. Audio-visual presentations further enhance understanding of Methodism’s development.

John Wesley's House This Georgian townhouse offers a glimpse into Wesley’s daily life. Key features include: His study chair An electrical machine he used for health experiments A prayer room considered the "Power House of Methodism"

Community Engagement Wesley’s Chapel continues to serve as a hub for worship and community activities. It hosts regular services, concerts, seminars, and educational workshops. The chapel grounds also include John Wesley’s tomb and Bunhill Fields cemetery nearby, which holds graves of notable nonconformist figures like William Blake and Daniel Defoe.

Visitor Information Admission: Free (donations welcome) Opening Hours: Monday–Saturday (10 AM–3 PM). On Sundays, tours are available after morning worship. Location: 49 City Road, London (near Old Street Underground Station)

The Museum of Methodism is not only a place for those interested in religious history but also for visitors curious about its role in social reform, abolition movements, education, and temperance advocacy. It offers an enriching experience that connects faith with...

Wesley's Chapel is a Methodist church in London and probably the most important methodist church in the world. The museum consists of John Wesleys home, Wesley's Chapel and in the crypt, the museum. At the front of the chapel stands a bronze statue of John Wesley with the inscription with probably his most memorable quotes, "the world is my parish".

When I arrived at the museum, one of the volunteers gave a myself and other visitors a brief history of John Wesley and his brother Charles. How they came upon their idea of a better way of preaching to people and placing a greater emphasis on doing social good such as charity, providing support for those in need such as the poor and the sick. Something that doesn't sound radical now, but apparently was back then.

The Museum of Methodism, contains pamphlets, books, and other artefacts relating to Methodism, including many of Wesley's speeches and essays on theology. There's also a short video of the life of John Wesley shown on a large screen. Behind the museum, you'll also find the tomb of John Wesley, along with with those of some of his followers and sister.

A nice great place to visit whether you're a methodist or not. I'm not a methodist myself, nor religious for that matter, but I felt the museum is definitely worth visiting. I came away thinking, I'd like to go and read up more about methodism. Probably a real bucket list item for...

A good museum, with a nice video introduction to Methodism. Some neat paintings and explanations about John Wesley. A few other old artefacts. The staff are polite and you can ask them if you wish to see the house he lived in just within the premises. For the house there is a £6 charge to view. There’s also a small shop you can peruse within the main chapel as well as access to the main chapel. It’s a reasonable volunteer run museum but not one I’d be in a rush...