Charles Wesley’s Historic House Reopens to the Public in Bristol

Bristol, UK – After years of being available only to pre-booked groups, Charles Wesley’s House at 4 Charles Street is reopening to the public — giving visitors a rare opportunity to step inside the beautifully restored home of the greatest hymn writer in history.

From the 26 July, individuals and families will be able to book a guided tour and explore the Georgian townhouse where Charles Wesley — best known as the author of Hark! The Herald Angels Sing — lived with his wife Sarah Gwynne and their gifted children. The family resided here from 1766 to 1771, and Charles continued to use the house during visits to Bristol until at least 1782.

Visitors will be able to explore six elegantly restored rooms, including the parlour, music room, study, kitchen, and two bedrooms, and learn about the lives of the Wesleys and their impact on faith, music, and culture. The house, built in 1742 and possibly designed by George Tully (who also rebuilt the New Room), offers a compelling look at 18th-century domestic life.

Image - Charles Wesley's House Kitchen

Charles Wesley, who worked in Bristol from 1739 to 1787, composed over 6,000 hymns, many of which remain central to Christian worship. His most enduring works include:

• Hark! The Herald Angels Sing

• Christ the Lord Is Risen Today

• O for a Thousand Tongues to Sing

• And Can It Be

Wesley’s hymns transformed worship at a time when singing in church was limited to psalms. He pioneered hymns for children, for the Church calendar, and for key life events — birth, illness, death — many of which were drafted on the road and finalised right here in this home.

Now, for the first time in many years, anyone can book to visit this unique Georgian townhouse, just a 10-minute walk from John Wesley’s New Room. Tours begin from 26 July onwards, with more dates to be released — please check our website for the latest availability. Tickets cost £8 per person for a tour of Charles Wesley’s House, or £13 per person for a combined ticket that also includes entry to John Wesley’s New Room. Tours offer a rich and personal insight into the Wesley family’s life, legacy, and music, all within the atmospheric setting of their restored 18th-century home.