Sacred Bristol

Explore the extraordinary architecture and rich history of these places of worship.

St James Priory The city’s oldest church. Dating from 1135 the former Benedictine monastery has been used as a place of worship for almost 900 years. St John on the Wall This church was first built into the medieval city walls in the 12th century and has beautiful Jacobean features. Visitor interpretation helps uncover its history.

The Lord Mayor’s Chapel

Hidden away behind an unassuming entrance on College Green, directly opposite Bristol Cathedral, is The Lord Mayor’s Chapel. Free concerts take place on most Saturdays.

John Wesley’s New Room

The oldest Methodist building in the world, the chapel’s ‘New Room’ features a fascinating multimedia visitor centre which tells the story of John and Charles Wesley (bottom right). Bristol Cathedral Originating as an Augustine Abbey in the 12th century, Grade I-listed Bristol Cathedral (top right) is one of the world’s finest examples of a hall church with a medieval Chapter House, a peaceful garden and a track record as a film location for costume dramas. St Mary Redcliffe A place of worship for over 800 years, beautiful Grade I-listed church St Mary Redcliffe (centre right) is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture with a slender, soaring spire 89 metres high.

Main image and top right: Bristol Cathedral. Middle: St Mary Redcliffe. Bottom: John Wesley’s New Room