Sion College - Victoria Embankment

Sion College, founded in 1630 by royal charter from King Charles I, started as a college, guild of parochial clergy, and almshouse, following the will of Thomas White, vicar of St Dunstan’s in the West. It was established on the site of Elsing Spital, a medieval hospital, and featured almshouses, a hall, a chapel, and a library donated by John Simson, one of White’s executors.

In the 1640s, Sion College became a key centre for London Presbyterians and a stronghold of the parliamentarian cause. The College faced attacks and defences from various factions, including notable figures like John Milton and Anthony Burges.

The original building, damaged in the Great Fire of London, was replaced in 1886 with a new location at 56 Victoria Embankment, known for its extensive theological library; in 1996, it moved out of its Victorian premises, which were converted into offices. The library’s collections were redistributed, with older items going to Lambeth Palace Library.