The Bishopston Church Parish Hall was built in 1910 and held in trust from the outset for the use of all inhabitants of the parish of Bishopston. For many years it was the only Public Hall in the Parish. In addition to its religious use by the Church, it was used for Whist Drives, Village Dances, Wedding Receptions and also a clinic run by a Nurse Snook, for mothers and babies. In the 1950’s the Bishopston Youth Club performed their annual pantomime on, what then was, a stage which could be hoisted away by a series of chains and pullies, to create more space for the general use of the hall. The Church Youth Club, Cymru Groes, met on a Saturday evening for ballroom dancing, table tennis and general socialising.

In 1960, with the expansion of the village, more and better facilities were needed and so an extension was added, incorporating toilets, kitchen and what is now referred to as the Minor Hall.

By 1966 the fabric of the building was in need of serious attention and a Church committee was formed to raise funds for this purpose. The first phase of restoration commenced the following year, with work preventing damp ingress and a new floor was constructed. Next phase was the total re-rendering of the exterior walls, followed by a completely new roof with the internal ceiling being made high and vaulted. In 2006 another small extension was added, which incorporates a “disabled” toilet facility. At this time the original toilet facilities were upgraded.

The whole upgrading package, which to date has cost in excess of £130,000, has only been made possible by the support the Hall Committee has received from parishioners attending the various fundraising functions, bric-a-brac, jumble sales, garden parties, Christmas fairs etc. which have been organised over the years and through generous donations and grants made by individuals and bodies.

The hall is currently used by the Mothers Union, Men’s Society, Bishopston Amateur Theatrical Society, Community Cinema, “Learning Welsh” classes, Keep fit, Pilates and the Holibods young children’s club. The Hall is also proving to be the ideal venue for the various Church fund raising events, organised by the relatively recently formed and highly energetic Triple “F” group.

The Hall is now a very popular venue for daytime and evening parties, for both children and adults. Further information on the hire of the Hall can be obtained from the Letting Secretary –Mrs Barbara Jenkins on 01792-232492.

For further information and details on the History of the Hall, contact Committee Member – Mrs Barbara Jenkins on 01792-232492.