Chantry Chapel

About

Have you ever seen a chapel that’s built on the side of a bridge? Head to Wakefield’s very own Chantry Chapel and discover this unusual building for yourself.

The Chantry Chapel of St Mary sits on medieval foundations on Wakefield Bridge. It is one of only three surviving Chantry Chapels left in England today and, including the bridge, is a scheduled ancient monument and a Grade I listed building.

The Chantry Chapel of St Mary the Virgin was built by the townspeople of Wakefield in the mid-14th century as an integral part of Wakefield’s new stone bridge (which replaced earlier wooden bridges) across the River Calder, first being licensed back in 1356.

Visitors have the chance to see inside this historic chapel at selected open days throughout the year. The Friends of Chantry Chapel are usually on hand during open days and are more than happy to answer any questions about the chapel and reveal some of its rich history.

Please note the entrance to the chapel is narrow and some wheelchairs and pushchairs may struggle with entry (door width – 685.8mm).

Forthcoming Open Days:

The Chantry Chapel will be open every Saturday up to and including Saturday 2 September 2023. Opening times are 11am – 1pm.

The chapel also hosts a number of events throughout the year – for further information visit the Friends of Chantry Chapel website or Facebook page.