St Ambrose is situated on Stretford Road, just off Whitehall Road in the east of the City, and is near St George's Park. This is a residential area in what was formally a mining district with associated industries. East Bristol was frequently visited by John Wesley as Methodism grew, and George Whitfield preached in the open air in fields not far from where the church now stands.
The vestry of St John the Baptist in the city of Bristol (the church known as 'St John on the Wall') endowed a mission to the Whitehall area of Bristol early in the 20th century. The present Beehive Centre, formerly the Parish Hall was used as a church from 1907, but the current St Ambrose Church was consecrated in November 1913 as congregations grew. The vicar of St John's, Rev Swann, was appointed initially as Missioner of St Ambrose.
The church is a large structure, built originally to seat some 750 people, but currently (2008) the PCC and congregation have discussed a more appropriate use of the space. From 1970 - 1998 the church was part of the East Bristol Team Ministry and in more recent times is a member of the East Bristol Partnership.
St Ambrose Church - showing the large worship area within
St Ambrose Church - showing the large worship area within
Rev David James - Vicar St Ambrose Church