Church with fascinating past to open its doors for Heritage Open Days event

Bamford Chapel & Norden URC, a church with an interesting history of famous members, is set to open its doors this weekend as part of the Heritage Open Days celebrations.

The church, located on Norden Road in Bamford, was founded by the famous Fenton family, and became the home church of famous war photographer and royal photographer Roger Fenton.

Previously known as Bamford Chapel, the church merged with Norden URC in 2014, after their building in Norden became infected with dry rot, and they needed a new place to worship.

Norden URC didn’t want to lose the name in the merge, hence the presently named Bamford Chapel & Norden URC.

 

 

The doors of the church will be open on:

• Saturday 7 September
• Sunday 8 September 

Visitors will be welcomed between the hours of 1-4pm, with a special presentation and speech each day at 2pm.

Louise Aspinall, who will be giving the presentation, told Rochdale Online News: “Bamford Chapel has been at the heart of the Bamford Community for over 200 years.

“It was established in 1801. Norden URC joined the congregation 10 years ago in 2014.

“It is a non-conformist chapel which in addition to supporting the spiritual needs of the area, also provides a central hub for many other activities.”

She added: “Everyone is welcome to come and learn more.  We have been taking part in Heritage Open days since 2009 and look forward to welcoming many more visitors this year.”

There is no need to book, anyone can turn up on the days mentioned and view the church for free.