Bell Ringing
The ancient art of bell ringing has been with us for centuries. The sound of church bells provides the audible backdrop of English towns such as Berkhamsted, sounds the call to worship on Sundays, and rings out the sound of celebration at weddings and other national events.
St Peter’s bell ringers are a friendly group who welcome new ringers. Whether you are young or old, ringing is well within the capabilities of most people. The group members will (literally) show you the ropes and help you learn the art of bell ringing.
We also have a younger group of school students learning to ring – some of whom are doing it for a Duke of Edinburgh award and others just because they enjoy it.
Our main practice meeting starts at 8pm on a Thursday evening, whilst our practice for school students starts at 4pm on Friday afternoons.
Bell ringing is an art, physical exercise and a mental challenge all in one, as well as a highly rewarding and social group activity. Come along and try it out!
The Bells
The medieval tower of St Peter’s was probably established in the mid-13th century. It was extended upwards in 1535-56, during the reign of Henry VIII, bringing it to its present height of 85 feet (26m).
The tower has a ring of eight bells They have been re-cast (from the old 1553 bells) at various dates between 1838 and 1946 by the Whitechapel Bell Foundry in London. The Church clock was built by Thwaites & Read of Clerkenwell, and dates from 1838, when it was installed to celebrate the accession of Queen Victoria to the throne.
Learn to ring!
Berkhamsted’s bellringers welcome new ringers to join them. As well as learning to ring bells, it’s a great way to socialise, meet new friends and enjoy a Christmas meal! You don’t need to be strong, musical or even religious – you just need to be ready to try something different!
The bellringers meet every Thursday 7.45pm-9.15pm at the South door to St Peter’s Church. Learn to ring bells and find a new interest! Get in touch.
Video
See the St Peter's bellringers in action
Listen to the peal of bells rung from midday, 4 June 2012, marking the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II, at St Peter's Great Berkhamsted.
Contacts
