Quaker Meeting House Open Day (Part of National Heritage Open Week)

Stafford Quaker Meeting House is a rare eighteenth century building still used for its original purpose. Built in 1730 to replace a previous meeting house on the site this is probably the oldest nonconformist place of worship in Stafford.

Once occupying a semi rural position on the outskirts of Stafford, the Meeting House is now encompassed by the town. Set back from a busy road the simple style of the brick building reflects the Quaker testimony to simplicity, with plain windows and minimal embellishment. The interior of the wood panelled Meeting Room has not been significantly altered by the necessary addition of modern lighting and heating; original door furniture has been retained. The Elders Bench and Women's Gallery remain but are no longer used as the form of Quaker worship has evolved over the past three hundred years in this quietly unpretentious place of worship.

Two extensions to the rear of the building have not detracted from the original appearance of the front of the building, providing extra space and facilities for the benefit of the Meeting as well as groups in the local community.

A garden to the rear, an oasis of nature in an urban environment, provides a tranquil place for reflection and, weather permitting, tea and cake.