The Chapels of Wales is a gazetteer of approximately 110 chapels, which played such a central role in the faith, culture and history of nineteenth- and twentieth-century Wales, and whose influence continues into the present century, despite an alarming closure rate of two a week. Owen’s comprehensive survey records some of the buildings now being lost and explores the life to be found within those which remain. It begins with a campaigning contextualizing introduction and each entry includes a discussion of the architectural importance of the chapel, its historical and cultural significance, its current spiritual health and photographs of exteriors and interiors. The book concludes with a bibliography and glossary of architectural terms.

Owen journeys across Wales, exploring Welsh and English-speaking chapels in all parts of the countryin cities, towns and villages. He also ventures into the Welsh diaspora, taking in chapels in Liverpool, London, Oswetry, Los Angeles, Philadelphia, Melbourne, Toronto, Gaiman (Patagonia) and the Khasi Hills (north east India).