The Cambridge Leper Chapel, also known as the Chapel of St Mary Magdalene, is one of the oldest complete surviving buildings in Cambridge. This 12th century Romanesque building was originally the chapel of an isolation hospital caring for people with leprosy and is Grade 1 Listed.
The building has 900 years of fascinating history - at various times it has been a place of worship, a bar and a warehouse! It owes its survival to its connection with the Stourbridge medieval fair, one of the largest in Europe.
The Chapel is not usually open but is used for community and cultural events. The Vicar of the Church of Christ the Redeemer (Church of England) is responsible for worship at the chapel.
The Chapel is owned and cared for by local charity Cambridge Past, Present & Future, who need your help to support the opening of the chapel and its conservation.
The Chapel is next to Barnwell Meadows Wildlife Site, which was purchased in the 1950s to help protect the setting of the Chapel. The meadows are a refuge for wildlife in the city and you can find out more about them by following the link below.
Includes FREE entry to all sites
Donate to the Leper Chapel appeal
Keep our spaces thriving with regular giving
Opening times, directions and facilities. Read more
Without action, we risk losing this unique piece of our local heritage forever Read more
Barnwell Meadows - home to an ancient chapel, medieval fair and City Wildlife site Read more
Read more
Fascinating history of the Leper Chapel and Stourbridge Medieval Fair Read more
Hire the Cambridge Leper Chapel for events, exhibitions, meetings and weddings Read more
Our work conserving and caring for the Cambridge Leper Chapel Read more