Hundreds of the capital's historic churches and chapels have been turned into homes as congregations dwindle and housing demand intensifies.
The Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors has estimated that roughly one hundred of the capital's redundant religious buildings were being converted each year by the mid-Noughties.
The inevitable planning hurdles involved in converting idiosyncratic listed buildings dissuades many developers, and a surprising number have been retained as individual residences after winding up in private hands.
We've hand-picked ten of the best conversions on the market now, from characterful flats under £500k to sensational single homes hidden in plain sight.
Willesden Green, NW2
This generous split-level one-bedroom flat is on the ground and lower ground floors of a converted church near Gladstone Park. It has a smart stepped living area, a patio garden and plenty of built-in storage in the bedroom.
Foxtons, 020 3834 8659
Camberwell, SE5
A one-of-a-kind chapel conversion with almost 3,000 square foot of space, meticulously renovated by interior designer owner Peggy Prendeville. Beyond the cavernous main living space are four bedrooms, plus an extra mezzanine area overlooking rows of stained glass windows.
Unique Property Company, 020 8187 4599
West Hampstead, NW6
This turn-of-the-century church hall is yet to be carved up for domestic proportions, so there's plenty of space to add a second bedroom. Highlights include high ceilings and historic parquet, plus proximity to the western edge of the Heath.
Savills, 020 3835 2607
East Dulwich, SE22
£700,000
A two-bedroom flat occupying the top floors of a particularly attractive converted church near Peckham Rye Park. Gothic-feel beams bring character to the bedrooms, while the cosy living area features wraparound stained glass windows.
Foxtons, 020 3909 8985
Nunhead, SE15
A bright and beautifully converted chapel with exposed brick walls, a vaulted ceiling and unusual arched windows that draw light deep into the double aspect living space. There are three bedrooms, plus a secluded garden with timber sauna.
The Modern House, 020 3834 8558
Stoke Newington, N16
This three-bedroom apartment, within a gated conversion on the border with Clapton, has a vast living area with two sets of doors onto the unusual split-level decked garden. Perks include first-come-first-served secure parking.
Dexters, 020 7067 2420
Poplar, E14
An enormous stone arch cuts through this two-bedroom apartment in newly converted St Saviour’s Church, which also boasts a sensational arched window. The smart kit out includes herringbone wood floors and black quartz worktops.
Blueprint Properties, 020 3840 3495
Hampstead, NW3
This transportive former chapel, set in a serene garden, has soaring ceilings, two further terraces and off-street parking. Currently arranged as a four-bedroom home, it's particularly well-placed for Hampstead Village and the Heath.
Inigo, 020 3909 6732
Maida Vale, W9
A good-size one-bedroom flat near Paddington Recreation Ground, with a vaulted timber ceiling and mullioned windows. Any potential buyer should be aware that there are currently tenants in situ.
Chancellors, 020 3869 9446
Bethnal Green, E2
£475,000
This two-bedroom flat within a Victorian red brick church in Bethnal Green is on the market without a chain. It's a short hop from Weavers Fields, and not far from east London favourites like Brick Lane and Columbia Road.
