Bevis Marks: Britain’s Most Significant Synagogue

Client: S&P Sephardi Community

Dates: 2018/19

Budget: £4 million

Project: Bevis Marks: Britain’s Most Significant Synagogue

Bevis Marks Synagogue, built in 1701, is the oldest synagogue still in use in the United Kingdom. Grade I listed and of exceptional historic interest, it retains its original Wren-style interior, making it a significant part of London’s historic landscape. The synagogue also holds an exceptional collection of silver, textiles, and archives and two historic cemeteries in East London. The project aims to restore parts of the synagogue’s fabric, improve access, and install new interpretations to enhance understanding of its history, making the site more accessible and sustainable for future generations.

In 2019, the project was awarded a £4 million capital grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Alix Slater Consultancy was commissioned to develop the Interpretation and Activity Plans, working closely with the client—a small group of volunteers from the S&P Sephardi Community. Given the synagogue’s Orthodox practices, activities were carefully designed around daily services and events, ensuring alignment with the community’s traditions.

A thorough market analysis was undertaken to identify potential audiences, including past visitors and nearby residents, schools, history societies, tour groups, and special interest organisations. Comparisons were drawn with other religious and cultural sites like UK cathedrals and the S&P Sephardi community’s sister synagogue in Amsterdam. Interpretation themes were developed from the Conservation Management Plan, guided by stakeholder consultations and public input from surveys and workshops. A comprehensive activity program aimed to tackle accessibility challenges and broaden audience reach, including partnerships with the Jewish Museum for school programs featuring guided tours and interactive sessions. Collaborations were also formed with local groups, such as Golden Lane Estate residents, Barbican residents, Jewish care homes, and charities. London Heritage Weekend was used to obtain visitor feedback from day trippers.

The project aims to enhance the synagogue’s visibility, addressing its hidden location and competing with landmarks like St. Paul’s Cathedral through marketing efforts connected to the City of London’s Cultural Mile, and promoting it in Jewish East End walking tours. Specialists audited its treasures, leading to a temporary exhibition at Guildhall Art Gallery during capital works to boost awareness of its heritage. A heritage foundation was also established for fundraising. The project has resulted in a remodelled building with improved interpretation, a five-year activities program featuring oral histories, touring exhibitions, outreach for local children, and Family Sundays, while offering extended hours, guided tours, and accessible interpretation for visitors. Additionally, it created internships and volunteering opportunities, fostering partnerships for sustainability and broader audience engagement.