Frederick Augustus Hervey, fourth earl of Bristol, Church of Ireland bishop of Derry, was born at Ickworth House, Suffolk, on 1 August 1730, to John Hervey and his wife Mary.
Hervey originally intended to have a career in law, however he abandoned law and took holy orders. He was ordained as a deacon in August of 1754, and became a priest in January of 1755. Hervey became a royal chaplain to King George III in 1763. Lord Bristol held the Irish viceroyalty for less than a year, and instead travelled extensively throughout Europe.
While on his way to Rome on 8 July 1803, Hervey suddenly died. His body was interred at Ickworth Park.