Rook Lane Chapel facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Rook Lane Chapel
Chapel front, following renovation
General information
Location	Frome, Somerset, England
Construction started	1705
Completed	1707

Rook Lane Chapel was once a place of worship. Today, it is a lively arts centre in Frome, Somerset, England.

A Chapel's Journey

Early Days and Purpose

Rook Lane Chapel was built in 1707 by James Pope. It was a special place for a group of Christians called nonconformists. These were Protestants who did not follow the rules of the official Church of England.

The chapel quickly became very popular. By 1717, about a thousand people attended services there. It was an important community hub for many years.

Changes Over Time

As time went on, new chapels opened in the area. This meant fewer people attended Rook Lane Chapel. In 1773, some members even left to start another church nearby called Zion Chapel.

The number of people coming to Rook Lane Chapel slowly decreased. Eventually, in 1965, it joined with Zion Chapel. Rook Lane Chapel then closed its doors in 1968.

A New Beginning

After closing, the building was sold. However, plans for its future use did not work out. Sadly, the empty building was damaged by vandals. Parts of the roof were stolen, and memorials inside were broken.

Luckily, the Somerset Buildings Preservation Trust stepped in. With help from English Heritage, they worked to save and restore the chapel. It is a Grade I listed building, which means it is very important historically.

Design and Features

Unique Architecture

Rook Lane Chapel has a square shape. Inside, two large pillars help support the roof. There was also a gallery, which is like a balcony, around three sides of the building.

The chapel has two rows of seven windows, one above the other. A central triangular shape, called a pediment, sits above five of these windows. In 1862, side lobbies were added. These matched the chapel's style and held stairs leading up to the gallery.

Special Details

Above the main entrance, there is an inscription. It is a quote from the Bible, Ecclesiastes 5:1. It says: "Keep thy foot when thou goest to the House of God."

The chapel also has a unique domed roof structure. This part is still in good condition. People in the local area used to call the chapel "The Cupola" because of this special dome.

Rook Lane Today

A Hub for Arts and Community

Today, Rook Lane Chapel is owned by NVB, a company of architects. They have transformed the old chapel into a modern community space. It is now known simply as Rook Lane.

The ground floor is a busy place. It hosts many different events, such as art exhibitions, receptions, meetings, and concerts. You might even hear chamber music played there.

Offices and Events

The upper floor, where the gallery used to be, is now used as office space by the architects. This means the building is still very much alive and in use.

Rook Lane is also a popular venue for weddings. Its beautiful historic setting makes it a special place for celebrations. You can find more information about events and activities on their website, www.rooklane.org.uk.