Lifelong Learning Programme

This project has been funded with support from the European Commission.
This web site reflects the views only of the author, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein.

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New West End Synagogue, London

New West End Synagogue, London

St Petersburgh Place, Bayswater, London, W2 4JT

RELIGIONS Judaism

DESCRIPTION OF THE RELIGIOUS SITE

DESCRIPTION
The New West End Synagogue in St Petersburgh Place, Bayswater, is one of the oldest and undoubtedly the most beautiful synagogue buildings in London and, indeed, in the country. It is only the second synagogue to achieve Grade 1 listed status and has been described by English Heritage as "the architectural high watermark of Anglo-Jewish architecture". The synagogue, which is a constituent of the United Synagogue (Orthodox), serves the Jewish communities of Bayswater, Notting Hill, Kensington, Hammersmith and West London. Opened in 1879, it has in recent years enjoyed a major communal renaissance.
HISTORICAL RELEVANCE
The Foundation Stone of the New West End Synagogue was laid on June 7th. 1877 by Mr. Leopold de Rothschild in the presence of the Chief Rabbi, Dr. Nathan Marcus Adler, and the building was formally opened on March 30th. 1879. The total cost of construction, including the site, amounted to £24,980 which was raised by private contributions and with the help of the United Synagogue, of which the New West End is a constituent Synagogue. The building bears many similarities to the Princes Road Synagogue in Liverpool, which had been designed by the same architect, George Audsley, shortly before the New West End was planned. As time went on, various alterations and improvements were introduced. The beauty of the Synagogue is enhanced by the magnificent stained glass windows, which were designed and made by N H J Westlake, one of the foremost authorities in England on stained glass windows and mosaics. The rose window above the Ark, executed by Erwin Bossanyi in 1937 in memory of Emma, Lady Rothschild, illustrates numerous aspects of Jewish ritual and tradition, while the centres of the side windows are all different, the framework remaining constant.
INTER-RELIGIOUS RELEVANCE
The New West End Synagogue is among the most beautiful and historic buildings of Jewish interest in England and visitors are most welcome to view the magnificence of our Grade 1 Listed Building. The Synagogue’s Central London location is very convenient for tourists visiting London, who are assured of a warm welcome to all our services and events.
RELIGIOUS INFLUENCE
The New West End provides a full range of communal activities for all ages and tastes. These include regular children's services for the under 5s and over 5s; Hebrew classes for children up to Bar or Bat Mitzvah age; the NWE Young Professionals Group; regular adult education seminars and lectures; a keep fit group for ladies; an active social committee; a Guild, which organises a range of lectures, outings and charitable activities; an Israel Group which arranges lectures and briefings on the Middle East by experts from all sides of the political spectrum; a Cares Group, which ensures that elderly and infirm members receive regular contact; and a Friendship Club, which meets monthly for more senior members.
HOW TO USE WITH THE STUDENTS
Direct visit
REFERENCE TO THE GUIDELINE

LINKS

  • Mosaic
    The on-line edition of the New West End Synagogue Magazine.

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This project has been funded with support from the European Commission. This web site reflects the views only of the author, and the Commission cannot be held responsible for any use which may be made of the information contained therein.