Volunteer at Loughwood, one of the earliest surviving Baptist meeting houses in Britain

The National Trust is looking for volunteers with an interest in historic buildings to help care for Loughwood Meeting House, near Kilmington. This very special place of worship is a hidden gem that has remained virtually unchanged since the 18th century. Founded in secret during a time of great persecution towards non-conformists, Loughwood Meeting House is one of the earliest surviving Baptist meeting houses in Britain. It is a beautiful, thatched chapel that is set into the hillside overlooking the rolling east Devon countryside with views of the Axe Valley.

Volunteers need to be available to open and/or close the chapel at least one morning or afternoon per week. Other duties will include helping to take care of the building, including doing a visual check, sweeping & dusting to ensure that the premises are cared for and tidy for visitors. Volunteers will be required to have their own transport.

Martin Jennings-Wright, Volunteering and Community Officer with the National Trust East Devon Countryside team explains more about the benefits of getting involved.

‘Volunteering at Loughwood is a great opportunity to learn more about the history of the Meeting House, make new friends, and contribute towards the care and upkeep of a special place in your community.

We are holding a drop-in session for anyone interested in getting involved on Tuesday 16th April at 11am – 12.30pm. Please come along, have a cup of tea and a chat, and find out more’.

Loughwood is located just off the A35 between Honiton and Axminster. The postcode for the Meeting House is EX13 7DU. Please contact loughwood@nationaltrust.org.uk, or call 01297 680507 for an informal chat.