Here you will find information about St Mary's bells and the ancient art of church tower bell ringing, who does it, why we do it and some history. We have 12 bells, and an additional flat 6th, all hung for full circle change ringing. Each bell is mounted on a wheel and when pulled by a rope turns almost a full circle click here to see how. To take part you don’t need to be highly intelligent, particularly tall or strong but there are 14 stone spiral staircase steps to the first floor Monmouth Ringing Chamber. The bells are rung for church services, weddings, funerals when required, and any local, national or international festivals and celebrations, or just for the activity and enjoyment it brings.
Our practice night is Monday from 7.00 – 8.30pm except Bank Holidays. Learning to ring depends on your own speed of understanding. The first step is learning to handle a bell, this can take a few weeks, then you can take your own time to learn the methods. Tower bell ringing is an extremely fulfilling craft, crossing all walks of life; it is lodged firmly in the history of our nation but still needs more support from local dedicated people, if you’re interested please browse this site or contact us us to learn more. Alternatively seek out a local tower to learn and then let us know if this got you interested.
Saint Mary's is the parish church of Bridgwater. The town grew around a suitable place to cross the River Parrett. The town has a rich history of farming, shipbuilding, brick and tile making, engineering and manufacturing. Also, at one time the town enjoyed one of the highest ratios for the number of public houses per head of population - cheers! Bridgwater is also famous for it’s historic St Matthew's Fair every September and the popular illuminated Guy Fawkes Carnival in November.
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