Chester College Chapel

Chester College was built between 1839 and 1842 as the first purpose-built teacher training college in England. Its chapel was added between 1844 and 1847. The chapel was designed by the Manchester architect J. E. Gregan, and its construction was assisted by the students of the college, who helped to quarry and carve the stone, to carve the woodwork, and to work with the stained glass. The chapel has since been incorporated into the University of Chester.

The chapel is constructed in coursed red sandstone, with a Westmorland green slate roof. Its architectural style is Geometric. It has a rectangular plan, with north and south porches, and a southwest bellcote. The bellcote is slender and octagonal, with arched bell openings, and is surmounted by a crocketed spire. At the west end of the chapel is a four-light window, and there is a five-light east window. Inside the chapel is a tiered west gallery, The stalls face each other. Around the chapel is an oak dado inscribed with texts. The chapel is floored with encaustic tiles. The organ case is elaborate with carved tracery, and has three gables. It was built in 1856, and was designed by Revd…