St Nicholas
Compton, Surrey
Its pre Norman tower alone would make this church special, but what makes it both unique and mysterious is its two storey sanctuary.
Described as ‘stunning and quirky’ and a must see for Arts & Crafts enthusiasts, the chapel’s extraordinary design, a fusion of Celtic influences and Arts & Crafts architecture, fascinates and overwhelms all who venture up the winding yew tree paths to visit. Visit the grave of Aldous Huxley and enjoy stunning views over the Surrey Hills.
'It is no exaggeration to say the Watts Chapel is one of the most beautiful, extraordinary, original, marvellous and magical buildings in the whole of the British Isles!’ Lucinda Lambton
Described as ‘stunning and quirky’ and a must see for Arts & Crafts enthusiasts, Watts Chapel is a Grade I listed masterpiece nestled in the Surrey Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
A fusion of Arts & Crafts and Celtic influences, the Chapel’s extraordinary design was created by the designer and ceramicist, Mary Watts, second wife of the great Victorian artist, GF Watts. Watts Chapel is a key element of Watts Gallery Artists’ Village, a unique Arts & Crafts village founded by GF and Mary Watts with the opening of Watts Gallery in 1904.
Watts Chapel was created by Mary Watts and villagers from the local community of Compton, whom she taught to model terracotta clay into the beautiful and symbolic patterns seen on the chapel walls. The Watts presented the chapel as their gift to the village of Compton, and it remains a working village parish chapel to this day.
Enjoy a quiet moment in the chapel before visiting the memorial to GF and Mary Watts as well as the grave of famous local, Aldous Huxley. Enjoy stunning countryside views over the North Downs and the Grade II* listed Watts Cemetery, which was laid out by Mary Watts between 1895 and 1898 with the help of Compton Parish Council.