Founded in the mid 1970's on a Christian educational bequest, the Bishop Mascall Centre was named after Robert Mascall, a Ludlovian and Bishop of Hereford 1404-16. Robert Mascall was a scholar and Lord Chancellor of England; a contemporary portrayed him as "a man for good learning and good life, admired and beloved of all men"

In the past the BMC site housed various local schools before commencing use as a Centre for youth activity weekends in 1975. A purpose built residential wing was added in 1978-79, followed by a suite of conference and seminar rooms in 1988. The BMC became an independent charitable foundation in 1997.

The BMC maintains close links with the Diocese of Hereford, and part of its role is providing facilities for Church of England teaching, but education in its widest sense is promoted at the BMC.

Spiritual, moral, social and cultural aspects, bring very diverse people together here, to cross boundaries, question assumptions and develop their understanding of the world.