A Cumbrian family business has breathed new life into a historic Penrith property.
The Church family have transformed the Grade II listed Sandgate Chapel into luxury self-catering apartments.
The building’s Historic England listing highlights the grand entrance with Doric columns and the 11 distinctive large semi-circular sash windows.
The chapel was built by the Wesleyans in 1815 but when they moved to their new chapel in Wordsworth Street in 1873 it was sold for £700.
Eventually, it passed into the hands of the Primitive Methodists. The last church services were conducted there in 1967 when it closed and it then stood empty for many years.
It was first sympathetically converted into standard modern apartments in 2014, but now the family has spent £500,000 to create nine apartments.
The family said: “The conversion reflects the history and character of the building and its unique architectural contribution to the town.”
At the helm of the revamp were the recently married Josh and Amy Church, with Josh’s mum Elaine creating original artwork to enhance the interior.
Josh’s family, who live in Cockermouth, has been in property for around 30 years. His parents initially bought a townhouse in Liverpool, living in part of it and renting out the rest.
Their portfolio has grown to include investments across the UK, including Cockermouth’s Tithe Barn pub, which they restored to its former glory during 2020.
