Independent Methodist Connexion

The Independent Methodist Connexion is a group of churches which are situated mainly in the North of England. Most of them bear the name ‘Independent Methodist’, but a few others have local names, often related to their origins. Each church is self-governing, but the Connexion acts as a spiritual and collective focal point. The best guide is their website

The Independent Methodist Connexion of Churches was not started by one individual on a specific occasion. A number of churches began in separate places, quite spontaneously, but with similar characteristics. Of these, the first was in Warrington, beginning in 1796. This church, along with others at Manchester, Stockport, Macclesfield, and Oldham, had their first known gathering together in 1806 at Manchester. Annual Meetings and exchange of preachers were the only tangible links between the churches for many years. Though some of the early churches used the title Independent Methodist, there were many other names: for example, Free Gospel Church, Christian Lay Church and Quaker Methodist. It was not until 1898 that the Annual Meeting finally chose the name Independent Methodist Connexion.

The chapels described in these pages are not a comprehensive list.