1 October 2026
A significant programme of conservation and restoration is progressing at The King’s Chapel of the Savoy in London, as part of the Duchy of Lancaster’s ongoing commitment to preserving and protecting its historic buildings for future generations.
Specialist conservators and craftspeople have been undertaking a range of works to carefully conserve the Chapel’s historic fabric and decorative features, using traditional materials and specialist techniques appropriate to the building.
The programme includes extensive work to the ornate Reredos behind the altar, where sections of plaster have been carefully replaced using traditional lime plaster, worked to match the existing decorative mouldings. Missing decorative features have also been recreated by specialist conservators using moulds, before being decorated and gilded.
Elsewhere in the Chapel, work is underway to conserve the historic Victorian frieze. Conservators have carefully stabilised the existing decoration and are restoring areas of paint loss to match the surrounding work.
The Chapel’s historic pipe organ is also undergoing a major programme of restoration, including the cleaning, restoration and replacement of key components. The organ was given by Queen Elizabeth II in 1965 to mark the 700th anniversary of the founding of the Duchy of Lancaster, adding further historical significance to its careful preservation. The restoration will help secure its future as an important part of the Chapel’s worship and musical life.
The works form part of the Duchy’s wider approach to the long-term stewardship of its heritage assets. Across its estate, the Duchy is committed to investing in the careful conservation and restoration of historic buildings, preserving their character and significance for future generations.
The Revd Canon Thomas Woodhouse, Chaplain of The King’s Chapel of the Savoy, said:
“The King’s Chapel of the Savoy has been a place of worship, music and community for centuries, and this important programme of work will help to preserve its unique heritage for generations to come.
“The skill and craftsmanship involved have been remarkable. Every aspect of the project, from the painstaking conservation of historic decorative features to the restoration of the Chapel’s organ, is being carried out with great care and respect for this very special building.
“We are extremely grateful to everyone involved in this important programme of conservation.”
Located just off the Strand in central London, The King’s Chapel of the Savoy is one of the capital’s hidden historic gems and forms part of the Duchy of Lancaster’s historic estate. The current programme of works will help preserve its architectural and cultural significance while ensuring it continues to serve as a place of worship for generations to come.