George Street Chapel (formerly Independent Methodist)

Built by the members 1815–16, George Street was the first chapel in the world to have been built specifically as part of the movement to independence in Methodism, and one of the first five Independent Methodist chapels.

Four cellar dwellings were constructed in its basement, which originally offered social housing in difficult times, provided as part of the chapel's life. The life and times surrounding the chapel, the use of the cellar dwellings and the story of the chapel's refurbishment are interpreted and brought to life through the use of IT, displays with artefacts and handling objects, worksheets for young people and – for booked parties – live interaction with volunteer characters.

Changing themes in the interpretation and activities will feature different issues that would have been relevant to the chapel congregation, the nearby community and cellar dwellers. This will include: war-time; famous 'Oldhamers'; 'Wakes Week' holidays; Victorian times etc.

George St has been fully refurbished in a £1.3m project, supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund, to maintain original features: box pews, (bellows) pipe organ – now restored – and the gallery remain.