Here you will find information about the bells at St Mary's church and the ancient art of English style tower bell ringing, who does it, why we do it and some history. We have 12 bells, and an additional semitone 6th, all hung for full circle change ringing. Each bell is mounted on a wheel and when pulled with 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 is a 14 step spiral staircase 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.
We ring for service on Sundays from 9.15 -10.00 and practice on Monday evenings from 7.00 – 8.30 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 traditional 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 12th century parish church of Bridgwater in the county of Somerset in the United Kingdom, the town grew around a suitable place to cross the River Parrett. Bridgwater 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 (bars) per head of population - cheers! Bridgwater is also famous for it’s historic St Matthew's Fair every September.
On the first Saturday in November every year the town hosts the world famous Guy Fawkes illuminated carnival.
You have to see it to believe it!
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| Robert Blake |
Bridgwater is proud to be the birthplace of Robert Blake (b1598) whose house is now the home of Bridgwater Blake Museum
Robert Blake was a successful soldier who later in life went to sea and became General at Sea, before the rank of Admiral had been instituted, he is rumoured to have sank more ships than Admiral Nelson and he is known as the father of the modern navy.
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