The Old Chapel, The Hill, Cumbria, LA18 5JN - Matthews Benjamin

Originally constructed as a Wesleyan Methodist Chapel in the late 19th century, this remarkable property stands as a lasting testament to Cumbria’s rich industrial and cultural heritage. Built to serve a growing community during the height of the West Cumbrian iron ore boom, the chapel formed an integral part of village life, providing not only a place of worship but a central hub for social gatherings, education, and community events.

Originally constructed as a Wesleyan Methodist Chapel in the late 19th century, this remarkable property stands as a lasting testament to Cumbria’s rich industrial and cultural heritage. Built to serve a growing community during the height of the West Cumbrian iron ore boom, the chapel formed an integral part of village life, providing not only a place of worship but a central hub for social gatherings, education, and community events.

In more recent years, the building has been thoughtfully and sympathetically converted into a unique private residence, carefully balancing character and practicality. The conversion has preserved the charm and integrity of the original structure, with its traditional stone construction, period proportions, and architectural features offering a wonderful sense of history and presence.

Set within the quiet and picturesque hamlet of The Hill, the property enjoys a peaceful rural atmosphere while remaining conveniently accessible to the nearby towns of Broughton in Furness and Millom. The surrounding area, once shaped by a thriving mining industry, now offers a tranquil lifestyle with scenic countryside and coastal views, coastal and woodland walks, and a strong sense of community.

This is a truly special home, ideal for purchasers seeking something out of the ordinary, combining heritage, individuality, and a story that is deeply rooted in the landscape. Properties of this nature rarely come to market, presenting a unique opportunity to acquire a characterful residence with both historical significance and enduring appeal.

The attractive Georgian market town of nearby Broughton in Furness has an impressive square at its centre and offers a range of local shops, including a butcher and traditional bakery, as well as cafes and pubs.

Vendor insight: “Millom offers essential services including doctors’ surgery, dentist, pharmacies, post office, supermarkets, fuel station and a range of local shops and businesses including butchers, hairdressers, taxi services and various takeaways. A new leisure centre with swimming pool is scheduled to open in Autumn 2026.”

Beyond, the interior of the home continues to reflect its origins as a former Wesleyan Methodist chapel, with a wonderful sense of space and proportion reminiscent of its early 20th-century role as a focal point for village life.

From the entrance porch, the accommodation unfolds to a well-proportioned double bedroom which is complemented by a separate modern shower room, finished to a high standard and is conveniently located for both residents and guests. From this part of the home, you approach the spacious open plan living room and dining area, including a convenient Hunter multi fuel clean burn stove and offering a wonderful sense of volume and light, with high ceilings and original features that reflect its past life as a community gathering place. A particularly striking and unique feature is the retained chapel pew, now cleverly incorporated into the dining area with a bespoke table crafted to fit perfectly around it, creating a memorable focal point that beautifully honors the building’s history.

The kitchen is well-appointed, offering a practical space for everyday use, while a separate utility/boot room incorporates the oil fired Rayburn and provides additional storage, functionality and access to the garage, driveway and rear of the property. A great space for rural living and keeping the main living areas clutter-free.

Upstairs, the principal bedroom provides a private retreat, with its own ensuite shower room. Adding further versatility is a mezzanine, currently used for additional guest sleeping and reading. This area is adaptable and could easily serve as a home office, or creative space, making it ideal for modern lifestyles and flexible working arrangements. This level continues to reflect the character of the original Old Chapel.

The gardens have been thoughtfully arranged, with a lawned area bordered by a variety of established planting including poppies, lilies, bluebells, and a striking magnolia tree, alongside peonies and well-tended beds.

Listing details scraped from www.matthewsbenjamin.co.uk · refreshed daily · first seen 50 days ago