Union Chapel in Islington has reached a major milestone in the restoration of its historic Sunday School building, with works now entering their final phase and the building set to open to the public this Summer.
The Sunday School Stories Project will transform the previously derelict space behind the main chapel into a new arts, heritage and community venue that is both accessible and environmentally sustainable, expanding Union Chapel’s role as one of London’s most distinctive cultural destinations.
A recent grant of £172,274 from Historic England will support the final phase of works, enabling completion of key elements of the restoration programme, alongside a £2.3 million grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, plus more funders.
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Ken Beech, Chair of Trustees, Union Chapel Project, said: “Union Chapel Project is delighted and grateful to receive a substantial grant from Historic England to assist with the restoration of the Sunday School within the Chapel complex. The funds will cover repairs, sustainability and also improve accessibility to this fabulous area which we expect to be complete in Summer 2026. Thank you!”
Photo © Historic England Archive
Significant progress has already been made across the building. Major structural and conservation works are now complete, including extensive masonry repairs, full renewal and insulation of the roof, and upgrades to drainage and heating systems. New accessible facilities have been installed, alongside improvements to fire safety, internal circulation and environmental performance.
Internally, the building is well advanced. Flooring and underfloor heating systems have been installed, plasterwork completed, and electrical and AV infrastructure largely in place. Restoration of original architectural features is ongoing, alongside the creation of archive and gallery spaces that will form a central part of the building’s future use.
The works have also uncovered previously hidden objects in the building, contributing to a growing archive that will be made publicly accessible as part of the reopening.
At the heart of the project is Sunday School Stories, a new archive initiative that will open to the public later this year through a dedicated space and reading room, bookable visits, archives-related workshops and online via the Union Chapel website and the National Archive website. Spanning more than 200 years, the archive brings together material relating to Union Chapel’s Nonconformist, social, architectural and musical history – from early congregational records to artefacts linked to its evolution into a world-renowned live music venue.
Alongside the reopening, Union Chapel will continue their programme of free cultural activity in the space, including performances, exhibitions and community events. Further details will be announced in the coming months, including the cross-arts Your Story Festival beginning in June.
Union Chapel, built in 1876–77 to designs by James Cubitt, is one of London’s most celebrated live music venues as well as an active church and social justice charity. It is a Grade I listed building. The restoration of the Sunday School, listed at Grade II*, forms a key part of its long-term vision to secure the future of the site as a cultural and community landmark.
