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Centenary exhibition detailing the building of Sandham Memorial Chapel .

Just like a box: realising Stanley Spencer's vision

  • Booking not needed
  • Free event (admission applies)

Sandham is best known for the 19 paintings created by Sir Stanley Spencer following the end of the First World War., but what of the building and the architecture. Visitors often ask whether the paintings were designed for the building, or the building for the paintings - neither is correct as the building and paintings are inextricably linked.

This exhibition seeks to explore the perhaps overlooked importance of the building, being both the Chapel and the adjoining Almshouses and the journey from idea to realisation.

it will look at the complex and sometime fraught interplay between Spencer, the Behrend's and the architects where sometimes the artistic demands of Spencer conflicted with the practicalities advanced by the architect and or the financial resources of the Behrend's. Additionally, of course all of this has to be viewed through the lens of early post war climate placing unique sensitivities on the project.

Times

Prices

Event ticket prices

This event is free, but normal admission charges apply for the venue.

Check admission prices

The basics

Suitability

Children are welcome with adult supervision.

Meeting point

Exhibition will be held in the office cottage, please walk through the kitchen to access it.

Accessibility

We have accessible parking at the rear of the property, please call on 01635 278394 to discuss needs and there is a fully accessible toilet on site.

Upcoming events

Quiet Time at Sandham Memorial Chapel 

Join us for a quiet hour as we turn down the sounds for a more peaceful and relaxing visit.

Event summary

on
14 Jun to 11 Oct 2026
at 11:00 to 12:00+ 4 other dates or times

Vintage tea room 

Come join us for a warm drink and biscuit (suggested donation £3) in our pop-up tea room. This can be found in the exhibition cottage.

Event summary

on
14 Jun to 27 Sep 2026
at 11:00 to 15:00+ 105 other dates or times

Sandham in 9 Objects 

Join us to explore nine objects from Sir Stanley's Paintings, revealed one at a time through a series of scheduled guided moments.

Event summary

on
14 Jun to 8 Nov 2026
at 11:00 to 15:00+ 100 other dates or times

Walking in Stanley Spencer's Footsteps 

Join us on this free guided walk, walking in Stanley Spencer's footsteps.

Event summary

on
24 Jun to 19 Sep 2026
at 10:30 to 12:00+ 1 other date or time