About The Old Church
A Living Piece of History
Built in 1908, The Old Church in Hope served as the community's gathering place for decades. The charming wood-frame chapel sits on a full acre in the heart of Hope, Idaho — a tiny lakeside town on the northern shore of Lake Pend Oreille in Bonner County.
In 1998, Brent and Gretchen Lockwood purchased the church and began a careful restoration to preserve its historic character while making it suitable for modern events. The original fir floors were refinished, the hand-crafted pews restored, and the beautiful stained glass windows preserved — all while adding a fully equipped kitchen, restrooms, and a charming bridal suite.
Today, The Old Church is a beloved venue for weddings, family reunions, retreats, and celebrations of all kinds, accommodating up to 50 guests in an intimate and unforgettable setting.
The Chapel
Step inside and you'll find a space that feels both timeless and welcoming. The chapel features its original Douglas fir floors, beautifully hand-crafted wooden pews, and luminous stained glass windows that cast warm, colorful light throughout the interior.
The main hall comfortably seats up to 50 guests and includes:
- Original wooden pews and altar area
- Stained glass windows
- Fully equipped kitchen for catering
- Modern restroom facilities
- Back room for storage or preparation
- Charming bridal suite for the wedding party
The Setting
The Old Church sits on a beautiful acre bordered by Strong Creek, with towering evergreens and a lush, park-like setting. Hope enjoys a special microclimate — warmer and drier than much of North Idaho — making it a wonderful spot for outdoor gatherings from late spring through early fall.
The surrounding area offers endless opportunities for exploration: hiking trails, lake access, scenic drives, and the quiet beauty of the Idaho panhandle. It's the perfect blend of a destination retreat and an intimate, accessible venue.
Capacity
The chapel comfortably seats up to 50 guests, with additional outdoor space for larger gatherings.