Islington United Reformed Church

Standing before the Islington United Reformed Church, you’ll find a haven of history and community nestled in the midst of bustling London. It’s a small but welcoming congregation, representing the diverse tapestry of modern London. It’s not the grandest Church, but its past is filled with tales of resilience and change. This Church actually represents the merging of two congregations, Harecourt and Claremont, each with its own unique story. Harecourt was founded in 1648 by George Cokayn, a minister with unconventional beliefs. They were forced to meet in secret when the monarchy was restored and their beliefs were outlawed. It wasn’t until 1691 that they were able to settle in a building of their own, named after the Harecourt that stood nearby. In 1855, Harecourt moved to Islington. This move was a success and the church became home to over 1000 worshippers at its peak. By the 1980s, membership had dwindled and a devastating fire swept through the church, leaving only its walls standing. It was rebuilt opening its doors again in 1992. Claremont had its roots in a 19th century Congregational Chapel. As Islington underwent rapid changes and the middle classes moved to different areas, the chapel was left behind. In 1899, the congregation was dissolved and the chapel was turned into a Central Mission Hall, reaching out to the local community. With its humble beginnings, Claremont became known for its dedicated work, offering everything from free meals to a ‘Poor Man’s Lawyer’. The building was even expanded with The Claremont Institute in 1904. In 1978 Claremont merged with the Islington chapel. Today, the Islington United Reformed Church continues to offer support to those in need, serving as a beacon of hope and community in the heart of Islington.