The Project came about because of dwindling congregations in the Beamsley Methodist Church. The small group was unable to finance the replacement of the heating system in the chapel building.

The original Methodist chapel had been further down the road, towards Bolton Abbey. After meeting in members' homes for some time, it became obvious that a chapel was required and a small building was constructed in 1834, on the side of the turnpike road between Skipton and Harrogate. The original chapel could hold 100 people but eventually was too small to accommodate the growing band of worshippers. After some discussion it was decided that a new building was required and the 9th Duke of Devonshire gave a small plot of land further up the road for the building of a new chapel. The foundation stones were laid on 17th October 1874, and the chapel opened on Friday 12th May 1876. The buildings were designed to serve the farming community in this area of Wharfedale. They included a large chapel, stables, schoolroom and a caretaker's cottage.

In common with most churches the number of members declined and the Ilkley Circuit had to make a decision on what to do with an ageing building that was costing a substantial amount to maintain. After much discussion it was decided that the building could be modified to provide holiday accommodation for people with disabilities. At the same time part of the building could be used for worship. In May 1987, the first ad-hoc working party was constituted and met in Ilkley. By July 1988, the various groups were consolidated into a steering committee. During 1988 Lord Hartington agreed to become patron of the Project, thus maintaining the links with the Devonshire Estate.

In April 1989, the steering committee met in Ben Rhydding and disbanded itself to establish a formal Management Committee to proceed with the Project, fund raise, plan, carry out the building work and manage the new premises. In February 1989, planning permission was received and in July Charitable status was achieved and the Beamsley Project became an independent charity. The objective was to make good use of the almost redundant premises, in line with the Trustees beliefs as Christians and recognising that there was still a worshipping community at Beamsley. The Project set out to produce a building designed for the easiest use of all facilities by any disabled person and to a high standard of planning, finish and equipment. The Methodist Church still continues to worship in the 'new' chapel and the Project manages the buildings and site on a fifty-year lease.

The vision of the end result hid the tremendous task of raising initial funds, appointing architects, solicitors, accountants and the many professional people needed to provide appropriate advice. Fund raising was under taken with much enthusiasm and energy. There were many disappointments but slowly the building fund grew and a small nucleus of Trustees made the decision in faith that building must start. Money had been raised in large amounts from a number of trusts, organisations and individuals. In particular the Project is grateful for substantial financial support from the Foundation for Sport and the Arts, the Sir George Martin Trust, the Duke of Devonshire's Charitable trust and the Langbar Camp Charity. Church groups, schools, and other supporters had raised many small, but no less significant, sums.

The 19th May 1996 saw the dedication service of the remodelled building. A new floor had been added to the original chapel building, making a spacious hall for recreation and fellowship. Old stables and outbuildings had been cleared to make space for a modern extension carefully designed to match the original architecture. Eight bedrooms were created to accommodate 24 people. A new dining room and modern kitchen were added, in the new extension, with equipment that was of adjustable height for wheelchair users.

The first visitors were welcomed in May 1996. Rockley Mount School in Barnsley enjoyed their stay and showed what was in store. The whole Project has been a learning experience for many people. We are not there yet but the original vision is now a reality. Until April 1999 volunteers staffed the entire Project but it was becoming clear that, as the work grew, a more professional arrangement would be required. In April a Warden was appointed to coordinate the reception of visitors and the day-to-day management of the building. Paid cleaners were also employed. However, much of the work is still undertaken by the volunteers who undertake general maintenance and gardening.

In 1999 work started on converting the former caretaker's cottage to provide first class self-catering accommodation for families or small groups. This new facility was opened on the 14th June, 2000, by His Grace the Duke of Devonshire.

Since opening, the number of bookings has continued to grow and many people have now had enjoyable experiences at Beamsley. We have welcomed many special schools, PHAB groups, as well as people from residential homes and sheltered accommodation. We look forward to the next stages of growth and continued service to people with disabilities.