The History of Arlington Baptist Chapel

The roots of Arlington Baptist Church reach back to the early 18th century, when local Baptists gathered in private homes and various meeting houses around the village Green. The current place of worship was originally founded in 1747, according to Kelly’s Directory of 1923, and was rebuilt in 1833—a date still visible today on a plaque high on the west wall of the chapel building.

This classic Baptist meeting house was designed with simplicity and purpose: all seating faces the central pulpit, reflecting the importance of preaching the Word of God. Though the building was extended in the 1950s, the integrity and character of the original structure have been beautifully preserved.

One of the chapel’s unique features is its stained glass windows, which display rare examples of Baptist iconography. Symbols such as the cross and crown represent the connection between suffering and glory, while the lamp and Bible signify Scripture as the light guiding our path.

In addition to the main worship space, the chapel complex also includes a historic schoolroom, originally built as part of the British and Foreign Schools Society. During the early 19th century, this room served one of two village schools, alongside an Anglican-run school, showing the long-standing educational role the church has played in the community.

While attendance had declined in recent decades, the church is now experiencing renewed growth—both in numbers and in its engagement with village life. Today, we remain committed to serving God and our community, with a growing focus on reaching outward to connect with those beyond our chapel walls.

The chapel is open during the summer months, and we invite you to check our news updates for the latest details. While the chapel is not generally open outside of service times, visitors during the summer are welcome to explore its unique character. Inside, you will find history timelines and photographs of the area on display, offering a glimpse into the story of Bibury and its heritage. We warmly welcome you to discover and enjoy this special place