John Wesley's New Room
Step into the world’s oldest Methodist chapel, where faith, history and social justice meet in the heart of Bristol.
Nestled in Bristol’s bustling shopping quarter, John Wesley’s New Room is the world’s oldest Methodist building and a living monument to the birth of Methodism. Step into an 18th-century chapel where John and Charles Wesley preached, explore interactive exhibits on their lives and social mission, and wander a peaceful courtyard garden. The site combines a historic chapel, museum, café, and archive, offering a quiet space for reflection amid the city’s energy. It’s a place where faith, history, and social justice converge, welcoming visitors of all backgrounds to discover the story of a movement that changed the world.
A brief summary to John Wesley's New Room
- John Wesley's New Room, 36 The Horsefair, Bristol, Broadmead, BS1 3JE, GB
- +441179264740
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Budget
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-4 pm
- Thursday 10 am-4 pm
- Friday 10 am-4 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit mid-week to enjoy the chapel and museum with fewer crowds and more time for quiet reflection.
- Take time to sit in the courtyard garden; it’s a peaceful spot to pause and absorb the atmosphere away from the city bustle.
- Check the website for special exhibitions and events, which often deepen the story of the Wesleys and their social mission.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Bristol Temple Meads station, take a local bus or walk about 15 minutes through the city centre to The Horsefair. The New Room is clearly signposted from Broadmead shopping area.
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Walking
From central Bristol landmarks like Cabot Circus or College Green, it’s a 10–15 minute walk through pedestrianised streets to The Horsefair; the building is easy to spot in the Broadmead Courtyard.
John Wesley's New Room location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about John Wesley's New Room
Birthplace of a Global Movement
Opened in 1739, John Wesley’s New Room stands as the oldest purpose-built Methodist chapel in the world, often called the ‘Cradle of Methodism’. Founded to house growing religious societies in Bristol, this modest building quickly became the heart of early Methodism. John Wesley, an Anglican clergyman and evangelist, established it as a preaching house and community hub, where open-air revival meetings translated into organized societies. From this single room, Methodism spread across Britain and, through Bristol’s strong Atlantic trade links, to America and beyond, shaping a worldwide Christian movement.A Chapel Steeped in History
The chapel you see today largely reflects its 1748 rebuilding, when it was enlarged and given an upper floor for preachers’ rooms. Its simple, functional design speaks of practical faith: original benches made from old ship timber, separate seating for men and women, and a pulpit that once held John and Charles Wesley. The lack of ground-floor windows was a safety measure against hostile mobs, and the layout made it hard for intruders to reach the preacher. Services began at 5 a.m., timed by Wesley’s large clock, and included preaching, unaccompanied hymn singing, and special gatherings like love feasts and watch-night services.More Than a Place of Worship
Wesley envisioned the New Room as a centre for social action as much as for worship. Here, early Methodists ran a school for the poor, visited prisoners, and operated one of Bristol’s first free medical dispensaries, guided by Wesley’s medical handbook *Primitive Physick*. The building also housed a bookstore selling Wesley’s writings, including his famous herbal remedies. This blend of spiritual and practical care – education, healthcare, and advocacy – laid the foundations of Methodism’s enduring commitment to social justice and equality.Legacy of Abolition and Reform
The New Room played a key role in the anti-slavery campaign. John Wesley produced powerful pamphlets against the transatlantic slave trade and mentored figures like William Wilberforce. His preaching on abolition stirred strong reactions in Bristol, a major slave-trading port, and even provoked riots at the chapel. Today, the museum explores this complex history, showing how faith motivated a stand against one of history’s greatest injustices. The site also highlights the Wesleys’ broader vision for a fairer society, from education for all to care for the sick and marginalized.A Modern Heritage Experience
Today, the New Room is both a working chapel and a vibrant heritage site. A contemporary visitor centre includes an interactive museum in the 1748 upstairs rooms, telling the story of John and Charles Wesley, early Methodism, and its global impact. The museum is family-friendly, with hands-on exhibits and displays of original objects. The peaceful courtyard garden, inspired by 18th-century design and Wesley’s interest in health, offers a calm oasis in the city. A café and shop provide refreshments and resources, making it a welcoming place for reflection, learning, and quiet contemplation.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
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For the design and aesthetic lover
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For the kind of experience you’re after
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For how adventurous you want the journey to be
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Location Audience
- Family Friendly
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- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
