Wednesday 21st February 2024; the Lightmongers Social and Communications Committee organised a private guided tour of the Kings Chapel of the Savoy, for Lightmongers and their guests.

The Lightmongers group with the Chaplain, Father Thomas Woodhouse

The Chapel dates back to the 16th century and is part of the Duchy of Lancaster. It is one of those historic sites that can safely be described as a “hidden gem”. It is in a quiet street, not far from the Savoy hotel, although there are no links between the two.

Few of our visiting group were even aware of the existence of the Chapel prior to the visit and were hugely impressed by the architecture and the visual impact of it. The Chaplain of the Duchy of Lancaster, Father Thomas Woodhouse led the private tour, giving us a summary of the history of the Chapel and the wider Duchy of Lancaster, which dates back to the 13th century.

The impressive ceiling of the Chapel

In 1937 the chapel became the Chapel of the Royal Victorian Order, an honour in the personal gift of the Sovereign.

Following the very informative talk by the Chaplain we had the opportunity to look in more detail at the many features of the Chapel before enjoying tea and biscuits and some informal conversation with the Chaplain. Following the visit we adjourned to a nearby pub for a convivial time before making our respective ways home.

Adding interest, as we walked to the pub we came across this historic cast iron streetlight with original lantern, the last remaining burning sewer gas lantern in the City of Westminster!!

A big thank you to the Social and Communications Committee for organising such an interesting and enjoyable occasion. The Committee is planning to organise more such informal and interesting events over the year, so watch out for communications about them and get your booking in early!