History of the Whitchurch Folk House Association and the Whitchurch Folk House Social Club.
The Whitchurch Folk House began as an association, formed in 1977. The residents of Whitchurch secured a lease from Bristol City Council for the Bridge Farm House building, which is a Grade 2 Listed building, and over 200 years old!
Groups of members would come together on a weekly basis and attend various activities, such as art classes, pottery, wine-making and gardening. These activities were run by charging a small fee and all money raised went into supporting the costs of operating the building.
Before long, members decided to set up a social section within the Association, so they could meet after their activities. The idea was that members would be able to discuss and organise various events, along with being able to enjoy a beverage or two!
The additional advantage of having a social element to the Association was an opportunity to raise vital revenue to support the Association, and to offset some of the annual costs incurred whilst maintaining the building.
A small bar area was built, which is now known as the “Pool Room”. A bar committee was created to ensure smooth management & to keep the bar stocked. This was staffed by members, who generously gave up their time on a purely voluntary basis, which enabled the club to keep running.
Due to the popularity of the initial bar, the Association obtained permission to build a small extension on the main house, this is now known as the “Main Bar”. Due to this expansion, staff were employed, and the Social Club became a business in its own right.
As of today, the Social Club and Association continue to provide a welcoming place for it’s members, their families and the local community.
The Whitchurch Folk House is especially popular for those with children, who are welcome at all times, and can most often be found playing games in our secure back garden.