His great grandfather John Bridges was of an Irish family and settled at South Littleton, Worcestershire in 1558, and later acquired the Alcester estate.
On 11 May 1644 the House of Commons ordered John Bridges, major of foot, to be added to the Committee of Worcestershire on 30 March 1645.
He was ordered to return his forces into winter quarters on 25 November 1646, and was "continued" as Governor of Warwick Castle on 25 March 1647, and still held the role in 1649.
Information was laid against him on 22 August 1649 that he had captured and concealed 25 waggons, many laden with plate and other treasure, belonging to the late King.
On 17 August 1663 Lord Ashley reported that Bridges was "acquitted on a suit brought against him for detaining plate and household goods of the late King".