Weybridge United Reformed Church
Weybridge , Surrey
The church was built as a Congregational Church on the initiative of a local resident, Benjamin Scott, Chamberlain of the City of London, in 1864-5.
It is believed there has been a church in Shepperton since the 7th century, on or near the present site. However, the current church is thought to have been built in 1614, after the older building was swept away in a flood, although a recent survey suggests that part of the building may be older than this.
The tower was added in 1714 on the recommendation of Queen Anne. The tower houses six bells, five of them dating from 1877 when they replaced a single bell. The smallest bell, named 'Little Nicholas,' was installed in 1980 when the tower underwent structural strengthening. The church clock dates from 1769.
It was during the 19th century that Shepperton grew significantly and a result of this can be seen with the creation of the gallery, which can be reached by an external staircase. The staircase has the Hanoverian coat of arms displayed, dating from the reign of William IV. The box pews with their poppy-head finials are also a 19th century addition. The Chancel screen, reredos, choir and clergy stalls, together with a number of stained-glass windows were given in memory of past parishioners. The choir and clergy vestries on the south side were added in 1934.