Bell Ringing Open Day

To mark Bell Sunday on the 18th May 2025, we are hosting an Open Day. This is a free session for anyone potentially interested in learning to ring to find out what it's all about. You will visit the Ringing Room and the Bell Chamber and see bell ringing in action. Anyone who wants to can have a go at chiming a bell too. (Please note, there will be no access to the tower roof on this occasion.)

Unfortunately we have to limit the number of people we can take up the tower for space/safety reasons, so please book your ticket in advance.

NB - To comply with our insurance, children under 8 are not permitted up the tower.

Each ticket admits one Adult or one Child.

Please arrive at11:40am, ready for a safety briefing prior to ascent, so the tour can start on time at 11:45am.

Adults of any age can learn to ring, so long as they are reasonably physically active. We can teach children to learn to ring from about the age of 10 years old. Ringing is more about technique than strength and children generally learn the basics of handling a bell quite quickly. Once they have mastered that skill they can then go on to learn methods (what we call “tunes”). We find bell ringing often appeals to children who enjoy maths, as they spot the patterns and symmetry in the methods.

Accessibility

The ringing room is accessed via a steep, enclosed spiral stone staircase of 38 steps. Some people find this a little claustrophobic. The bell chamber is a further 20 stairs up.

Requirements to ascend the tower

You must be present for the safety briefing prior to ascent.

You must be at least 8 years old.

You must be physically fit enough to climb and descend the 38 steps of the steep spiral stone staircase to the ringing room. (Ascent is unsuitable for anybody with disability or infirmity or suffering with heart or respiratory disorders or any other medical condition which could affect the climb.)

All under 18s must be accompanied by a responsible adult.

You must carry any essential medication eg inhalers with you.

You must be wearing suitable footwear. (No high heels or flip-flops please!)

Only one small bag is allowed per person, any further luggage must be left with a steward on the ground floor.

NB - The Lead Steward reserves the right to use their own judgement and decline entry to anyone who they feel cannot safely ascend the tower.