About
The Museum of Methodism and John Wesley's House offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of John Wesley, founder of Methodism, and the movement that changed the religious landscape of Britain and beyond. Located next to Wesley's Chapel in Finsbury, the complex includes Wesley's beautifully preserved Georgian house where he lived from 1779 until his death in 1791, and a museum tracing the history of Methodism from its 18th-century origins to the present day.
Wesley's House contains his personal belongings, furniture, books, and the chamber where he died.
The electrical shock machine he used for medical treatments and his prayer room offer intimate insights into his daily life. The Museum of Methodism, housed in the chapel crypt, displays artifacts from Methodist history including preaching licenses, pottery, banners from early Methodist meetings, and items relating to Methodist social reform movements.
Wesley's Chapel itself, known as 'the Cathedral of World Methodism', is a beautiful example of Georgian religious architecture with its original pulpit and communion table.
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Plan Your Visit
⏱️ Recommended Visit Duration
📅 Best Times to Visit
Quietest: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday
Busiest: Saturday
💡 Weekday mornings for peaceful exploration
💡 Visitor Tips
- Allow time to visit both the house and the museum - they tell complementary stories
- Wesley's Chapel is an active place of worship - check service times
- The electrical shock machine is fascinating - ask guides about Wesley's medical interests
- Free entry but donations vital for maintaining this historic site
- Combine with visit to Bunhill Fields burial ground across the street
- The Foundery Coffee House serves good refreshments in historic surroundings
- Guided tours of Wesley's House included - don't miss them
Highlights
Wesley's House
The beautifully preserved Georgian house where John Wesley lived for the last 12 years of his life. See his personal belongings, the study where he wrote, his chamber where he died in 1791, and the curious electrical shock machine he used for healing. The house provides an intimate portrait of Wesley's daily life and work.
Wesley's Prayer Room
The small room where Wesley began each day at 4am with prayer and study. The atmosphere of devotion is palpable in this intimate space. Wesley's practice of early rising and disciplined prayer life was legendary among his followers.
The Deathbed Chamber
The room where John Wesley died on March 2, 1791, at age 87. See period furniture and learn about Wesley's final words: 'The best of all is, God is with us.' The chamber offers a moving conclusion to Wesley's life story.
Wesley's Chapel
Built in 1778 and described by Wesley as 'perfectly neat but not fine.' The beautiful Georgian chapel features Wesley's original pulpit, the communion table he used, and columns said to be from ships donated by George III. The chapel remains an active place of worship.
Collections
Collections include Wesley's personal possessions (furniture, books, clothing, medical equipment), manuscripts and letters, early Methodist pottery and ceramics, preaching licenses and documents, portraits of Wesley and early Methodist leaders, banners and textiles from Methodist meetings, and materials documenting Methodist social reform movements.
The house preserves original 18th-century interiors and furnishings. Archives include rare books and pamphlets from Wesley's time.
John Wesley's Life and Legacy
Explores Wesley's life, ministry, and the founding of Methodism
📍 Museum of Methodism
Methodism and Social Reform
Documents Methodist involvement in abolition, education, and workers' rights
📍 Museum of Methodism
Themes
Time Periods
Current Exhibitions
No current exhibitions. Please check the museum website for updates.