A heritage resource for the world Methodist community
Central Hall Westminster holds an archive of international significance — a collection that tells the story of Methodism in Britain and the world. We are committed to developing it as a major public resource.
Materials relating to 1946 are held in the archive
The Historic Roll records every donor's name
From the archive collections
What the archive contains
The archive spans the full history of Central Hall Westminster from 1912 — records, photographs, correspondence, programmes, publications and objects that document the building's extraordinary role in British civic, religious and cultural life.
- Records of Central Hall Westminster from 1912 to the present day
- Photographs, programmes and printed ephemera across more than a century
- The Historic Roll, containing the signatures of one million donors to the 20th Century Fund
- Materials relating to the United Nations inaugural General Assembly, 1946
- Records of healing ministry, music, worship life and congregational history
- Items relating to the building's role in the Methodist Connexion and world Methodism
For some 80 million Methodists worldwide, this archive is an irreplaceable window into the origins and development of a global movement.
Cataloguing & conservation
A full audit and condition assessment, followed by systematic cataloguing to make the collection discoverable by researchers worldwide.
Digital access
A digital platform — piloted in 2026, with full launch planned for 2028 — making collections accessible online to the global Methodist community.
Museum accreditation
Working towards Arts Council England Museum Accreditation by 2032.
International partnerships
Partnership with the World Methodist Council to serve scholars, visitors and pilgrims globally.
Visiting the archive
Building tours, which include access to heritage areas, are currently available on Thursdays. We are actively seeking volunteers to help extend access.
If you are a researcher, heritage professional or member of the Methodist community wishing to access the archive, please contact us in advance.
Email: info@wmcht.com
Building tours: Thursdays — booking recommended
Common questions
Not yet — but a digital platform is a central part of our six-year programme, with a pilot in 2026 and full launch planned for 2028.
Yes. We welcome researchers from any background. Please contact us in advance to arrange access.
The archive is part of our £10m Capital Appeal. Donations of any size are welcome, and we would love to discuss partnerships with foundations or Methodist bodies.
We aim to achieve Arts Council England Museum Accreditation by 2032, confirming that collections are cared for and made accessible to the highest standards.
Help us open up an irreplaceable story
Your gift helps develop this resource for the global Methodist community and the wider public.