BCfm Radio is proud to present a brand new podcast documentary, “The Origins of Methodism in Bristol: John Wesley and the New Room”, exploring the birth of the Methodist movement and its deep roots in the city of Bristol.
Produced with funding support from the Leonard Laity Stoate Charitable Trust, this project brings together a wide range of local voices, historians, faith leaders and community members to tell a story of faith, reform and enduring legacy.
The podcast is presented by Jacqueline Walker, a broadcaster with a keen interest in heritage and community storytelling. In this engaging and accessible documentary, Jacqueline guides listeners through the dramatic life of John Wesley, the 18th-century preacher whose tireless work laid the foundations of what would become a global movement.
“John Wesley’s message of love, equality and social action still speaks powerfully today,” said Jacqueline Walker.
“It was a privilege to explore how Bristol played such a key role in that story, from the working class collieries of Kingswood to the founding of the New Room, the first ever Methodist building.”
The documentary also features contributions from Tom Brothwell of the Bristol History Podcast, Jonathan Scott, curator of the New Room Museum, and Methodist chaplains Reverend Josette Crane and David Weeks. Personal stories from members of the Westbury-on-Trym Methodist Church and international visitors offer insight into how Methodism continues to inspire people around the world today.
🎧 Listen now on SoundCloud:
Why Methodism Matters
Founded in the 18th century as a revival movement within the Church of England, Methodism has grown into a worldwide Christian denomination with over 80 million members. Its teachings emphasise personal faith, social justice and community support. John Wesley’s legacy includes early advocacy for prison reform, education for the poor and opposition to slavery – themes explored throughout the podcast.
Bristol’s New Room, built in 1739, was the first Methodist meeting house in the world. Still standing in Broadmead, it is a place of pilgrimage for Methodists globally and now houses a museum and archive dedicated to the movement’s history.
“This is what BCfm is all about – telling Bristol’s stories, celebrating our diversity and bringing history to life through local voices,” said Patrick Hart, CEO of BCfm Radio.
“We’re extremely grateful to the Leonard Laity Stoate Charitable Trust for enabling us to create something meaningful and lasting for the community.”
A Collaborative Effort
This project would not have been possible without the generous support of the Leonard Laity Stoate Charitable Trust, a long-time funder of community and heritage initiatives in the West of England. The podcast also benefited from collaboration with the New Room Bristol, a key partner in providing historical expertise and access to their rich archives.
The podcast is now available to listen on SoundCloud. Whether you are a lifelong Methodist, a history lover or simply curious about Bristol’s past, this documentary offers a fascinating and thoughtful insight into one of the city’s most influential movements.
