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Building & Infrastructure

Conserving an icon for future generations

Central Hall Westminster is a Grade II* listed building of exceptional architectural and historic significance. The Trust takes its responsibilities as custodian of this national landmark with the utmost seriousness.

The grand staircase

The grand staircase, with its wrought-iron balustrade

The Great Hall gallery and ceiling

The Great Hall gallery beneath the domed ceiling

The Great Hall, full for an event

The Great Hall, seating over 2,000 — one of London's finest spaces

The building

An architectural landmark

Designed by Lanchester & Rickards in the Viennese Baroque style and opened in 1912, Central Hall Westminster is one of London's great civic buildings. Its Great Hall — seating over 2,000 — remains one of the largest and most distinguished event spaces in the capital.

As a Grade II* listed building, it requires specialist care, continuous investment and rigorous management to maintain both its historic integrity and its fitness for modern use. All significant works require Listed Building Consent and Historic England compliance. The Trust has appointed heritage architects Donald Insall Associates to guide the next phase of work.

"He was the only architect in England who was ever able to do convincing Viennese baroque."

— John Betjeman on E. A. Rickards, 1958

2025 quinquennial inspection: A full inspection was completed in 2025 and identified a programme of works to keep the fabric safe, compliant and historically appropriate. The Trust is developing a prioritised Schedule of Works.

Works programme

Recent and planned works

Completed 2025

Wesley Suite

Wesley's Café moved to street level and the lower-ground floor transformed into the new Susanna Wesley Room and Wesley Suite, accommodating up to 800 delegates and contributing more than £3m of revenues.

Ongoing

Roof repairs

Urgent matters from the previous quinquennial inspection, including roof repairs and remedial works, addressed through a proactive maintenance programme.

In progress

AV & digital infrastructure

An AV upgrade programme including a new Podcast Studio for the church and London District, supported by a DAF grant.

Planned

Susanna Wesley Room enhancements

Power, lighting and acoustics upgrades to create a fully equipped multi-functional exhibition venue.

2026 onwards

Quinquennial works

A comprehensive programme in response to the 2025 inspection, forming the core of the £10m Capital Appeal.


Sustainability

Environmental responsibility

The Trust is committed to reducing the building's environmental impact, targeting a 40% reduction in carbon emissions by 2030 in line with Methodist and Government net zero commitments.

Carbon target
−40%

by 2030

Accreditations
Ecosmart Platinum
Eco Church Bronze
Industry recognition

Awards

Best Conference Venue

Central Hall Westminster

Excellence in Customer Service

Central Hall Westminster

Best Venue Team (30+)

Central Hall Westminster

Sustainability Initiative of the Year

Central Hall Westminster