A Ringers Guide to Towers in Gloucestershire
Compiled by David P. Bagley. Thanks to Chris Pickford and Andrew Bull for more information.
Updated 20/10/2020.
Disclaimer : Most of the comments in this list are based on my own (personal) impressions of the towers on the day when I visited them. No responsiblilty is taken for the validity of the data, but I do my best to keep it as accurate as possible. If you have any suggestions and/or changes, please E-mail me on
A B C D E F G H K L M N O P Q R S T U W
Adlestrop, S Mary Magdalene, 6 bells, Tenor 4-2-21, Grid Ref: SP243269
The restoration and remodelling of this ring was one of the last jobs undertaken by the Whitechapel Bell Foundry before it closed. The 2nd and he cracked tenor of the old 5 were removed (the 2nd is now the 2nd at Pillerton Hersey, Warks). Bells 1, 3 & 4 were retuned to become the back three of a new light 6, which the three new Whitechapel trebles allowed. The poet Edward Thomas wrote a poem called "I remember Adlestrop" after his train made an unscheduled stop at the station here. A copy of the poem was put on a GWR station seat on the platform, and after the "Beeching axe" when station closed, the seat was moved to the bus shelter (at SP243272), where it still is.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1971, Dove online, C.M.Povey 2022)
Alderton, S Margaret, 6 bells, Tenor 9.5 cwt, Grid Ref:SP002332
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1971, 1978, C.J.Pickford 1993)
Alvington, S Andrew, 5 bells, Tenor 8-3-18, Grid Ref:SO603007
Access to the small ground floor ringing chamber is through a vestibule attached to the north side of the tower. The bells go well and handle well, and have a fair tone. In 1980 the bells were rehung with new headstocks by Eayre and Smith Ltd, with other gear by Arthur Berry, in a new frame made by Taylors. The fittings were overhauled in 1996 by Nick Hopkins of Beckford.
(Data:Sharpe 1971, A.M.Bull 1993, C.J.Pickford 1993)
Ampney Crucis, Holy Rood, 6 bells, Tenor 6-3-24, Grid Ref:SP065019
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1974, C.J.Pickford 1993)
Arlingham, S Mary the Virgin, 6 bells, Tenor 12 cwt, Grid Ref:SO706107
There is room for only three cars in the parking area outside the church, but other cars may be left in the lane. The entrance to the ringing gallery is located around the back of the church in the north east corner of the tower. The ropes fall anti-clockwise around the walls of the tower. The treble is not dated, but is thought to be from about 1810 by John Rudhall. It appears in the Rudhall Catalogues between Newnham on Severn, and Cardigan, both of which are dated 1810. A small amount of work has been done by Whites of Appleton and the bells go better as a result, but are still not easy to ring.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1971)
Ashchurch, S Nicholas, 8 bells, Tenor 11-2-24, Grid Ref:SO928333
These are a pleasant ring of eight, the back six being from the Rudhall foundry, augmented to 8 in 2001 by Hayward Mills Associates. The tower entrance is at the back of the nave in the south east corner of the tower. There is a car park up the church drive. The bells go well, and sound rather nice. The 3rd of the octave was recast four years after Abel first cast it by his son Thomas, as the ringers required a more powerful bell. The 1763 bell is unduly thick and is heavier than the fourth.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1973, C.J.Pickford 1993, Bob Parker 1997, Andrew Mills and John Garle 2001)
Ashleworth, SS Andrew & Bartholomew, 6 bells, Tenor 15.5 cwt, Grid Ref:SO819252
The ground floor ringing chamber is reached through the church. There is an excellent example of a tithe barn next to the church, and a small riverside pub, "The Boat" is further down the lane, and through the flood defences. The church is prone to flooding if the river level is high. The bells were rehung in a steel frame by Arthur Fidler in 1976-7, who also provided steel headstocks and ball bearings. The 3rd and tenor are the only bells remaining from an early ring of six by Abraham Rudhall I. All but these two bells have been recast since then.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1971)
Avening, Holy Cross, 6 bells, Tenor 11-2-15, Grid Ref:ST879980
The founder of the 2nd and 4th is thought to be Roger Purdue of Bristol, who probably cast 5 bells in 1628, three of which were recast later on. The inscription on the 5th has been obliterated, and its date and founder can only be guessed at. There is a small car park in the church yard, but the best place to park is probably in the road. The tower entrance is behind the church, and watch out for the light fittings in the stairs. The bells were restored in 1999/2000 by Whites of Appleton with all new fittings.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1973, Andrew Bull 26/1/2005)
Awre, S Andrew, 6 bells, Tenor 10-0-21, Grid Ref:SO708081
Parking is in the lane outside the church, and the ground floor ringing chamber is reached through the south porch of the church. There is a large glass partition between the ringing chamber and the nave, and also a large wooden chest in the middle of the ringing chamber. The rope guides are just wrought iron rings set into the stonework. The bells go quite well and are hung on modern fittings in a 17th century frame. The bells were rehung in 1955 by Taylors.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1971, A.M.Bull 1993)
Badgeworth, Holy Trinity, 6 bells, Tenor 13 cwt, Grid Ref:SO902193
There is some parking outside the decorated lych gate, and the ground floor ringing chamber is reached through the back of the church, and behind the right hand side of the organ. The founder of the 2nd and 4th bells are from a branch of the Pennington family who cast hundreds of bells, mainly in the west country. There are only a few examples of their work in Gloucestershire. All six bells were rehung on new fittings in 1972 by Arthur Fidler, using the existing frame of 1791 by John Jacques. The previous tenor dating from 1830 weighed 14-3-6, but the present tenor's weight is only approximate. The bells were rehung in a new frame in 2011, but the bells were not weighed.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1972, C.J.Pickford 1993)
Barnsley, S Mary the Virgin, 6 bells, Tenor 4-2-25, Grid Ref:SP077051
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1970, Garry Barr 1993, C.J.Pickford 1993)
Barnwood, S Lawrence, 8 bells, Tenor 10-0-12, Grid Ref:SO858178
Access to the ringing chamber is by an inside spiral staircase at the north east corner of the tower, entrance to which is inside. The bells go well and handle well, and are a pleasant ring of eight, although they sound a little distant. The frame and fittings (including Hastings stays) are by Taylors in 1913. The bells were overhauled by Whites in 2013.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1971, A.M.Bull 1993)
Berkeley, S Mary the Virgin, 10 bells, Tenor 21-1-3, Grid Ref:ST684990
This is a large detached tower, the door to which is in the south wall facing the church. Once inside, the upstairs ringing chamber is reached via a wooden staircase. Parking is in the road below the church. A new single tier frame was being installed in 2017. The back eight were previously hung in a new iron frame by Thomas Blackbourn of Salisbury in 1900 with a frame by Mears in 1921 above, in which hang the 3rd and 5th. The bells were rehung and retuned by Taylors in 1978 and again in 2017. Edward Jenner who invented the smallpox vaccine lived by the church, and there is a Jenner museum nearby.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1971, R/W Issue No. 3548, A.M.Bull 1993, Peter Yardley 2018)
Bibury, S Mary, 6 bells, Tenor 9-0-15, Grid Ref:SP118065
The ground floor ringing chamber is reached via the south porch of the church, and through the church to the back of the north aisle. The bells go very well, but are rather quiet inside the ringing chamber. There is a row of old cottages by the river in the centre of the village, and these attract many tourists, and as a result, parking in the village is limited, especially by the church. Complete rings by Abraham Rudhall II are also to be found at Twyning (also 1723), Dumbleton (1729) and Great Barrington (1733). The bells were rehung by Taylors in 1896, and were rehung on ball bearings by Whites of Appleton in 1997, complete with new pulleys and with the clappers refurbished. A rope guide was also installed making the bells easier to handle.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1970, C.J.Pickford (bell weights) 1993), Brian White 1998
Bishop's Cleeve, S Michael & All Angels, 8 bells, Tenor 19-2-21, Grid Ref:SO961277
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1970)
Bisley, All Saints, 8 bells, Tenor 14-1-16, Grid Ref:SO904059
The bells used to be rung from the ground floor, but are now rung from a gallery. The bells were rehung in 1979 by Whitechapel with a new metal frame, cast iron headstocks and ball bearings. The tower entrance is outside in the south west corner of the tower. The bells go well and sound nice, but one or two are slightly oddstruck. The ringing chamber ceiling boasts some fine carvings.
(Data:Ringing World 17/5/1991, EMB+Sharpe 1974, DPB 21/7/2001)
Blaisdon, S Michael, 6 bells, Tenor 7-2-7, Grid Ref:SO703172
There is some parking at the end of the track leading up to the church. The ground floor ringing chamber is reached through the south porch of the church. The bells sound nice, and go OK. These bells are mentioned in the 1921 Mears catalogue.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1975, A.M.Bull 1993)
Bledington, S Leonard, 6 bells, Tenor 8-0-13, Grid Ref:SP245226
The 2nd of the former ring of 5 is preserved in the church and was cast by James Keene, 1639. The bells were retuned in 1998 with new headstocks and fittings by Whites of Appleton and were tuned at the same time. The frame is a cast iron one by Bond.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1932,1980, AMB/CJP 2003, Mark Walker 2005)
Blockley, SS Peter & Paul, 10 bells, Tenor 17-0-6, Grid Ref:SP165350
Access to the ringing chamber is by a spiral staircase in the north east corner of the tower, the entrance to which is through the west doors, not the main part of the church. A new frame for 10 was installed in 2017 and two trebles added. This frame replaced a girder frame by Bond of Burford. This parish was in Worcestershire when H.B.Walters did his survey.
(Data:Walters Church Bells of Worcestershire 1930, C.J.Pickford 1993, Mark Walker 2005)
Bourton on the Hill, S Lawrence, 6 bells, Tenor 11-1-27, Grid Ref:SP175325
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1972, Garry Barr 1993, Mark Walker 2005)
Bourton on the Water, S Lawrence, 8 bells, Tenor 12-1-22, Grid Ref:SP167209
These are a really good ring of eight in a picturesque riverside setting. The entrance to the tower is via the west door, and up a wooden staircase. The village is popular with visitors, and parking near the church is not easy during the tourist season.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1972)
Brimpsfield, S Michael & AA. 6 bells, Tenor 10-2-22, Grid Ref:SO942128
This church is some way from the nearest road. Cars may be driven up to the church along a track across t field. The bells are rung at ground floor level from the chancel crossing. Not only do the bells get heavier down the scale, but they also get older! The bells were augmented to six in 1986. The front four bells are all "second hand", the treble here is the treble of the old eight at Birling, Kent, the 2nd came from Hungerford, Berks, and the 3rd and 4th were supplied by Whites of Appleton. The bells were overhauled in 1999.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1968,1978, C.J.Pickford 1993+2003)
Broadwell, S Paul, 6 bells, Tenor 6-0-4, Grid Ref:SP201278
The old five bells bells were completely rehung in a new metal frame in 1980/1 and augmented to six. The second has no inscription, but it is probably by Robert Wells I. There is plenty of parking in the road by the church, and the tower entrance is outside in the north west corner of the tower. There is an awkward step down into the ringing chamber. The bells go well, and sound fine, having been retuned by Taylors in 1981.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1971, C.J.Pickford 1993)
Brockworth, S George, 6 bells, Tenor 13-0-6, SO891170
There is some parking at the end of the church path in the access road, but be warned, there have been some cars stolen in the area in the past. The tower entrance is on the outside south wall of the tower. The bells go fairly well, and sound OK, apart from the clapper thuds which are easily heard in the ringing chamber. They were retuned by Taylors in 1930.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1973,1979)
Bromsberrow, S Mary, 6 bells, Tenor 7-1-0, Grid Ref:SO743337
The top part of the tower at Bromsberrow is constructed out of black and white half timbering. The church is reached through the pair of white gates on the side of the lane leading away from A417. The church lane looks more like a private driveway, than a church lane. There is plenty of parking on the grass verge alongside the driveway, and the church entrance is on the south side of the nave. The ground floor ringing chamber is usually cluttered up with chairs, benches, etc, which must be removed before ringing, and replaced again afterwards. The bells are hung in a wooden frame, held together without any tie bars or any other metalwork. The bells are on plain bearings, but do not go too badly at all. They sound very nice and mellow inside the tower, but are slightly odd struck, and also they all seem to strike slightly early when they swing. The inscription on the 2nd was erased by the founder, probably because it was a bell held in stock, and the text proved unsuitable for Bromsberrow.
(Data:Bliss 1979)
Buckland, S Michael, 6 bells, Tenor 14 cwt, Grid Ref:SP082360
Parking is rather restricted on the side of the narrow lane by the church. The ground floor ringing chamber is reached through the porch on the north side of the nave. The bells go well, and sound quite nice inside the tower. There is no founder's mark on the 2nd, only a date, but it was definately cast at Birmingham by Barwell, as is proved by an extract from the Evesham Journal of that year, which claims that the bell was cast to the exact note, despite the fact that the founders never visited the tower to measure the notes of the other bells! The village is very picturesque. Ringing may sometimes be limited due to a large hotel being close behind the church.
(Data:Bliss 1979, C.J.Pickford 1993,A.J.Brazier 1994)
Cam, S George, 6 bells, 14.5 cwt, Grid Ref:ST757993
The nearest parking to the tower is in the lane along the north side of the church. There is a small gate which leads into the churchyard. The ringing chamber door is in the outside of the tower on the north side. The bells were rehung, retuned, and the treble recast in 1994 by Taylors. They sound nice and go very well. The previous treble (6-0-6) was by T. Blackbourn of Salisbury, 1901, is now the service bell. The frame is also by T.Blackbourn in 1901.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1975, Ringing World No.4375, p213)
Chaceley, S John the Baptist, 6 bells, Tenor 11 cwt, Grid Ref:SO855307, RINGING RESTRICTED
This parish was in Worcestershire when Walters did his survey. The treble was cast by Abraham Rudhall II, and it is possible that the fourth was as well, because his father, Abraham I, retired from founding in 1718. The fittings are not in good condition, and there is excessive clapper wear.
(Data:Walters Church Bells of Worcestershire 1930, EMB 1980)
Chalford, Christ Church, 6 bells, Tenor 10 cwt, Grid Ref:SO892026
These are the only ring of steel bells in the county. They go well : the 1991 removal of original handbell-like springs and substitution of clapper-lifters plus measures to ‘acoustically-tailor' the tower, make them much more sonorous and quite pleasant to listen to. There is some parking on the side of the main road outside the church, and the entrance is at the base of the tower, and up a steep wooden ladder and through an awkward trap door. The bells are hung in two somewhat slender pinewood frames, with wooden headstocks.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1975, Ted Cribley 16-1-2006)
Charlton Kings, S Mary, 8 bells, Tenor 17-0-13, Grid Ref:SO964204
Parking is available in the lanes which surround the church, and the tower entrance is in the south east corner of the tower, on the outside of the church. The bells go quite well, but are not particularly clear to listen to, and the ringing chamber ceiling is fairly low. They were rehung by the Whitechapel foundry in 1958 in a new frame with new fittings. The fourth bell here was for a long time thought to be by John Palmer of Gloucester. It has been discovered that the founder "IP" that Sharpe and H.B.Walters before him assumed to be John Palmer, was in fact a founder called John Pennington. John Pennington I was casting bells at Monmouth between 1626 and 1665, and his son John II was casting until 1682.
(Data:The Ringing World 29/6/1990, EMB+Sharpe 1974)
Chedworth, S Andrew, 6 bells, Tenor 10-1-16, Grid Ref:SP052121
These are rung from the ground floor at the back of the church. They are not very tuneful, but go OK. They were rehung in 1910 by Bond of Burford. There is a curious wooden staircase in the ringing chamber to a door in the west wall of the tower. Parking is in the lane outside the church, and is fairly restricted. The bells were rehung in 1999 by Hayward Mills and retuned by Taylors.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1972, A.M.Bull 1993, AMB/CJP 2003)
Cheltenham, S Christopher, Warden Hill, 6 bells, Tenor 0-2-7, Grid Ref:SO931204
These are a very light ring of six installed in July 2001. The bells were cast by Taylors and hung in the roof space below a new "spirelet" by Matthew Higby. The entrance is up a short stairway to the right inside the entrance hall of the church. They are very nice to listen to and easy to ring, although some experience on light bells is an advantage. They form the lightest ring of bells in a church.
(Data:Matthew Higby 2001)
Cheltenham, S Mark, 8 bells, Tenor 16-1-2, Grid Ref:SO928220
The difficult going five of 1884 were rehung lower in the tower and augmented to 8 in 2007, the ringing chamber moving down the tower to the gallery at the back of the church. The key of the tenor of F sharp, which is unusually heavy for a bell of this note. Other examples of bells similar to this are at Malvern Link, Worcs (10,16-2-3 in F sharp), and Wells-next-the-sea, Norfolk (8,16-3-16 in F sharp), both again by John Taylor & Co., Loughborough. The augmentation work was undertaken by Hayward Mills Associates of Nottingham, supported by many of the local ringers who had also done the bulk of the fundraising.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1974, C.J.Pickford 1993, online Dove 9/11/07)
Cheltenham, Minster Church of S Mary the Virgin, 12 bells, Tenor 21-2-1, Grid Ref:SO948225
This church can be seen when at some distance, but when you get close to it, it disappears behind the other buildings which surround it. There are several alley-ways leading to the church yard off the main street. The tower steps are on the outside of the church in the north east corner of the tower. The old 12 were replaced in 2017 with a completely new ring which sound and go excellent. Parking is not possible next to the church. Use one of the many public 'pay and display' car parks, and walk to the town centre.
Semitone bell
Cherington, St. Nicholas, 5 bells, Tenor 6-0-0, Grid Ref:ST903985
These are a nice little 5 augmented from 4 in 1993 by Bob Parker or Taunton. They are rung from ground floor at the back of the church. In about 1830, one of the Cherington bells was stolen and taken to Avening. Those responsible went to prison for 6 months!
(Data:Sharpe 1970)
Chipping Campden, S James, 8 bells, Tenor 22-1-18, Grid Ref:SP155394
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1975, C.J.Pickford 1993, Chris Povey 29/1/2006)
Churcham, S Andrew, 6 bells, Tenor 13-3-17, Grid Ref:SO768183
This is a strange looking tower, and the entrance is outside on the north wall of the tower. All six bells, and their fittings are by Warners, and they may be in need of some attention. There is some parking in the lane opposite the pond, and also a large paved area which may be used for parking.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1973)
Churchdown, S Bartholomew, 6 bells, Tenor 9-2-1, Grid Ref:SO882191
This village should be renamed Churchup, since the church is right on top of the hill by the village. There is a steep and winding lane up the north side of the hill, and plenty of parking by the water works. The church path leads up to the south door of the nave. The bells are rung from the ground floor at the back of the church. They were restored in 2014/5 by Whites of Appleton.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1970, A.M.Bull 1993)
Cirencester, S John the Baptist, 12 bells, Tenor 27-1-16, Grid Ref:SP023021
This magnificent tower dominates the surrounding area, and was probably the first tower ever to contain a ring of 12. The old back ten bells of 1713, were augmented in 1722, were all by the Rudhall family, but several bells have been recast since then, most recently, the tenor, by the Whitechapel foundry. There is some parking outside the church, but larger car parks are available and are signposted. The tower entrance is inside the church in the south wall of the tower. The eighth was cast in the year that Abraham Rudhall I handed the foundry over to his son, and may have been cast by either of them.
Flat Sixth: John Taylor, Loughborough, 1895, 7-2-20
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1974, R/W Issue No. 3912, C.J.Pickford 1993)
Clearwell, S Peter, 4 bells, Tenor 7 cwt, Grid Ref:SO571080, UNRINGABLE
This ring of four are not in good condition and are currently unringable. Parking is in the road outside the church, and the ringing chamber is at ground floor level to the left of the main porch as you walk in. There are usually some flower arranging materials, Etc, which have to be removed before ringing. The church was only built in 1866.
Data:EMB+Sharpe 1979)
Coaley, S Bartholomew, 6 bells, Tenor 11-2-2, Grid Ref:SO772017
These are a complete ring by Charles and George Mears, cast at the Gloucester foundry bought from John Rudhall. They are possibly the last ring of bells ever cast at Gloucester. The bells were rehung in 2003 by Eayre & Smith Ltd with all new fittings, in a new frame. Bell no. 2 was found to be cracked when it was removed from the tower and was repaired by Soundweld.
(Data:E&S 26/11/2003)
Cold Aston, S Andrew, 5 bells, Tenor 5-3-16, Grid Ref:SP128199
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1972, Campanophile report 5/8/2002, DPB 21/5/2005)
Colesborne, S James Apostle, 5 bells, Tenor 6 cwt, Grid Ref:SP004134
These bells were restored by Hayward Mills in 2000 after many years of being unringable. They now hang in a new frame underneath the old wooden one. They are now a lovely little ring, which go well and sound excellent. The setting in the grounds by the river is superb. Well worth a visit, especially at the annual Snowdrop festival in the early spring.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1964,1968,Gloucester Echo 21/10/00,DPB 10/3/2001)
Coln St Aldwyns, S John, 8 bells, Tenor 7-2-26 cwt, Grid Ref:SP144052
(Data:Brian White 1998)
Coln St Denys, S James the Great, 5 bells, Tenor 6 cwt, Grid Ref:SP087109
There is some parking in the lanes outside the church, and there is an outside door to the ringing chamber on the north side of the building below the tower. The bells are supported by a curious wooden structure, rather like Worcester Cathedral, but on a much smaller scale. This woodwork gets in the way of the ropes, which must be pulled straight in order to prevent them from being tangled in the beams. The bells sound rather harsh, and do not go very well.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1967)
Compton Abdale, S Oswald, 6 bells, Tenor 6-3-4, Grid Ref:SP059166
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1970, DPB 14/4/93, CJP 6/2/2005)
Corse, S Margaret, 6 bells, Tenor 12-0-14, Grid Ref:SO788264
There is some parking outside the church. The ringing chamber is at ground floor level, and is reached through the back of the church. The bells are in a cast iron 'H' pattern frame, and are hung on metal headstocks with plain bearings.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1972, A.M.Bull 1993)
Cowley, S Mary the Blessed Virgin, 6 bells, Tenor 7.75 cwt, Grid Ref:SO965147
This church is set in the landscaped grounds of Cowley Manor, and dates from c1200. The top stage of the tower is in the Perpendicular style, and makes it look like a typical Somerset tower, on a smaller scale. Henry Brett, who lived at the Manor and was a ringer here, became Master of the Ancient Society of College Youths in 1701. He also donated the three bells dated 1697. The bells are ringable, but not easy.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1970)
Cranham, S James the Great, 6 bells, Tenor 9-1-16, Grid Ref:SO892123
The ground floor ringing chamber is at the back of the church behind a glass screen. The bells sound OK, but are difficult to ring as the handstroke pulls are far too short. They are a very tight fit in such a small tower. There is a little parking in in the lane outside the church.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1972)
Daglingworth, Holy Rood, 4 bells, Tenor 7 cwt, Grid Ref:SO994050, UNRINGABLE
The rope circle is anti-clockwise, and the fittings date from 1912 and are by Llewellins & James of Bristol.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1967)
Deerhurst, S Mary, 6 bells, Tenor 10-3-22, Grid Ref:SO871299
This is a very old church dating from Saxon times and gets a mention in the book "Brother Cadfael's Pennance" by Ellis Peters. The tower was probably built in the 10th century, and is undoubtedly the earliest church in the county to have had any bells. There is some parking on the grass verges of the lane leading to the church. The tower entrance is outside in the west wall. The ringing chamber is divided into two by a stone arch. The 4th and 5th are in one half, and the rest are in the other. Ropesight is made difficult because of this stonework. The bells go well, and sound rather nice, having been rehung in 1979. The old 5th (Abel Rudhall, 1736, 7-1-0) was cracked and was replaced in 2006 by a second hand bell from Coleorton supplied with the assistance of the Keltek Trust. The frame and fittings are by Whites of Appleton, 1979. The third bell was transferred from Winstone in 1979, replacing a poor bell by Blews of Birmingham. The Abel Rudhall bells are very early examples of his work, since he only started founding in 1736.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1972, Richard Hart, Paul Treble 1979, DPB 11/3/2006)
Didbrook, S George, 5 bells, Tenor 6-0-21, Grid Ref:SP055314
There is some parking in the lane past the church and in the church car park just past the school. The ground floor ringing chamber is reached through the main west doors under the tower. The ropes fall anti-clockwise. The bells were rehung on new and refurbished fittings and a much improve set of double rope guides fitted, by Blyth and Co in 2022. Much of the work to the bells was carried out by local volunteers who also raised funds for the tower to be completely re-pointed, the stairwell steps restored and electric light in the tower.. This ring replaced a complete ring of 1706 by William Bagley.
(Data:Simon Ridley 2022, C.J.Pickford 1993)
Down Ampney, All Saints, 5 bells, Tenor 9 cwt, Grid Ref:SU099965, UNRINGABLE
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1972)
Dumbleton, S Peter, 6 bells, Tenor 11 cwt, Grid Ref:SP018358
There is some parking on the side of the road past the church, and the tower entrance is on the outside at the base of the tower. There is a curious floor about 7 foot high which was built to gain access to the clock. In this floor are holes about 1 foot square for the ropes and the ringer's hands. It is most important to pull the ropes VERY straight, otherwise the sallies will miss the hole, and get stuck above the trap doors. When lowering the bells, it is also important to avoid hitting your hands or head on this floor. The fifth rope also falls very close to the wall, and some of the other ropes are also rather close to the walls. The bells sound very nice and sonorous, and go quite well. The bells were rehung in a new metal frame by Taylors in 1892, but they were not tuned or weighed. The 1892 frame is Taylor's earliest example of a cast iron low sided metal frame.
(Data:EMB and Chris Pickford 1980, David Bryant 4/7/2004)
Dursley, S James the Great, 8 bells, Tenor 19-2-9, Grid Ref:ST757981
There is nowhere to park near the church, but there is a large car park about 300 yards to the west of the church. Access to the ringing chamber is via a wooden stairway to the gallery at the west end of the nave, and through a glass partition. The bells sound excellent, and go very well, being hung in a cast iron 'H' pattern frame on ball bearings.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1975)
Dymock, S Mary the Blessed Virgin, 6 bells, Tenor 17.5 cwt, Grid Ref:SO700313
There is parking for about 4 cars in the layby opposite the church, otherwise it is necessary to park in the road or by the pub. The ringing chamber is reached through the west doors of the church, and up a wooden staircase against the south wall. The ringing chamber is also used as a Sunday school, so it may be necessary to move some items before ringing can start. The bells were rehung in a new metal frame in 1979 by Eayre and Smith Ltd. They were not retuned or weighed when they were rehung, and are becoming somewhat odd-struck.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1974)
Eastington, S Michael & All Angels, 6 bells, Tenor 11-0-4, Grid Ref:SO783057
These bells used to hang in the church of S.Peter, Frocester, demolished in 1954. They were probably rehung by a local carpenter, rather than a professional bell hanger, since the fittings were rather amateur in appearance before a recent rehanging. The bells sound ok and go well. The ringing chamber is up a short steep ladder and through a tight trap door. In 1650, W Whitmore cast two bells for the Clewer Tower at Windsor Castle, where they still form the 2nd and 3rd of the ring of eight there. It is known that W Whitmore was resident in Watford between 1647 and 1657, and that he also worked in conjunction with the Hodsons of London (H.B.Walters "Ut Supra", p233). At Bredon, Worcs., there are three bells dated 1624 which are by "W Witmore". It is probable that they were the same person, but that he changed the spelling of his name.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1971, Sharpe, C.B. of Berkshire p300)
Ebrington, S Eadburgha, 6 bells, Tenor 12-2-12, Grid Ref:SP183400
The Bagley foundry was based mainly at Chacombe, but various members of the family set up foundries in other places at various times, such as Ecton (Northants.) and Evesham (Worcs). They are renowned for casting bells with many decorations, and for bad spelling of the inscriptions. The bells were rehung in 1955, when the 5th was recast.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1975, C.J.Pickford 1993)
Edgeworth, S Mary the Virgin, 5 bells, Tenor 4-3-26, Grid Ref:SO948060
This is said to be the most remote village in the Cotswolds. Parking is in the lane outside the church, and the ground floor ringing chamber is reached through the south porch. The bells sound good, and go very well having been rehung in 1983. Inexperienced ringers should be careful since the small bells are quite light and flighty.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1973)
Elkstone, S John the Evangelist, 6 bells, Tenor 9-3-26, Grid Ref:SO967123, RESTORATION IN PROGRESS
Parking is in the car park by the church, or in the lane past the church. The entrance to the church is through the south porch, and the tower steps are in the south wall of the tower, from inside the back of the church. The bells sound quite good. They were restored and rehung in 2020 by Whites of Appleton.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1973, 1979, A.M.Bull 1993, DPB 10/3/2001)
Elmore, S John the Baptist, 6 bells, Tenor 12-0-9, Grid Ref:SO767149
This church is about 2 miles west of the village, in the hamlet of Bridgemacote. The 'H' pattern bell frame and modern fittings (with Hastings stays) date from 1923.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1971, C.J.Pickford 1993)
Elmstone Hardwicke, S Mary Magdalene, 4 bells, Tenor 15cwt, Grid Ref:SO920260, BELLS NOT HUNG.
This church is in the centre of the small village to the east of Cheltenham and the large tower is visible from the M5. The bells were hung in a huge wooden frame (with the date 1654 inscribed in it) until the late 70's when the heavier 3 bells were lowered to the intermediate chamber by Arthur Berry where they sit today. The treble remains in its pit complete with 17th cent ringing fittings and is chimed by means of an Ellacombe hammer. The frame has 5 pits in an anti-clockwise circle and there is evidence that a 5th bell existed with cut outs for bearings being present. The organ has been installed under the nave/tower arch and occupies part of the tower, also obstructing where the ropes of the treble and second would fall. The churchwarden believes the bells were last rung in 1924.
1. Thomas Rudhall, 1775, 7cwt
2. Gloucester foundry (Robert Hendley?), 15th cent, 9cwt
3. Henry Farmer, 1618, 11cwt
4. John Martin, 1675, 15cwt in F#
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1971, ARM, 2006)
English Bicknor, S Mary the Virgin, 6 bells, Tenor 7-2-10 cwt, Grid Ref:SO582158
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1971, Michael Williams 1995, Soundweld's web site 3/1/2004, online Dove 9/11/07)
Evenlode, S Edward, 5 bells, Tenor 6 cwt, Grid Ref:SP221291, UNRINGABLE
The tenor bears no inscription, but it might be a Bagley bell, since the 1732 catalogue of the bells supplied by the Bagley foundry states that a ring of five bells was supplied to 'Evenload'. They were rehung by Bond in 1897, but are now only chimed using Ellacombe apparatus. The bells are unringable due to the tower being unsafe.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1971)
Fairford, S Mary the Virgin, 8 bells, Tenor 17-1-2, Grid Ref:SP152012
There is plenty of parking in the marked areas outside the church. The bells are rung from the chancel crossing, and the ringers have to stand among the choir stalls to ring. They sound very nice indeed, but suffer from a certain amount of rope rattle. There is quite a length of rope before the first rope guide, and it is important to pull the ropes straight.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1973)
Forthampton, S Mary the Virgin, 6 bells, Tenor 14 cwt, Grid Ref:SO858326, RINGING RESTRICTED
The second was cast by Charles and George Mears, possibly at Gloucester using Rudhall's old foundry. The frame and fittings are in very poor state. All six bells swing the same way, and the stays and sliders of bells 2-5 are of a unusual style, being roughly a wooden version of the old peg and latchet arrangement. The tenor slider is also not of a standard design, and consists of a sliding wooden beam. The ringing chamber floor is very weak, as are all the other wooden floors in the tower.
(Data:EMB 1980, C.J.Pickford 1993)
Frampton on Severn, S Mary the Virgin, 6 bells, Tenor 9-3-7, Grid Ref:SO744069
There is a parking area next to the church, and the ringing chamber is at ground floor level at the back of the church. The bells were restored in 2012 by Matthew Higby. They sound nice and go well. The Sharpness Canal passes a few yards to the west of the church.
(Data:EMB 1980, Dove online)
Gloucester, Cathedral, 12 bells, Tenor 23-3-14, Grid Ref:SO831188
The Norman abbey was started in 1089, and it is certain that this building had a central tower, and possibly two other towers. In 1122, the 'great eastern tower' burnt down and in 1170, the north west tower fell down. Both were rebuilt, but disappeared again when the west end was rebuilt in the 15th century. The present central tower dates from 1450, and the bells were transferred from the old tower to the new. Some of these old bells still exist. The present ring were rehung and augmented from 10 to 12 in 1978. They go quite well, but the acoustics are not very good. The tower entrance is in the south transept, and there are many stairs up to the ringing chamber. There is also a large bourdon bell, "Great Peter", dating from c1450. It was probably cast by the monks at that time, and weighs 59-3-14. It can be seen outside the ringing chamber as you walk in. John Pennington I was casting bells at Monmouth between 1626 and 1665, and his son John II was casting until 1682. The 11th became cracked and was welded during 2007.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1973,1979)
Gloucester, S Mary de Crypt, 8 bells, Tenor 12-1-18, Grid Ref:SO831184
The bells are in a central tower. Access to the ringing chamber is by a spiral staircase in the north west pillar of the chancel crossing. The bells go well, and were hung in a 'H' pattern frame by Taylors in 1909. The fittings are also modern style Taylors' ones with Hastings stays.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1971, A.M.Bull 1993)
Gloucester, S Mary de Lode, 6 bells, Tenor 14-2-12, Grid Ref:SO829189
Ringing on these bells is rare, since they are situated yards from residential buildings, and there is no sound control. The last rehang was by Warners in 1916 who installed a riveted metal frame for 8 bells. Entry is via an outside door in the south east corner of the tower. The condition of the ropes is not good and the tower is rather dusty. The bells are not particularly in tune, and the 4th is VERY slow at backstroke.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1973, DPB 28/4/2001, C.J.Pickford 1993)
Gloucester, S Nicholas, 6 bells, Tenor 14.5 cwt, Grid Ref:SO828187, RINGING LIMITED
The church became redundant in 1975 and the bells are now virtually unringable,. The frame is a 18th century wooden frame, partially supported from underneath by another huge timber structure in the ringing chamber. The bells are loud, fairly well in tune, but drop like stones. It is interesting to note that the 2nd and 3rd were cast by the same founder and in the same year as the 4th and 5th at S.Mary de Lode.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1973, R/W issue No.4083)
Great Barrington, S Mary the Virgin, 6 bells, Tenor 8-0-3, Grid Ref:SP205135
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1971, C.J.Pickford 1993)
Great Rissington, S John the Baptist, 6 bells, Tenor 11-1-3, Grid Ref:SP195172
These are rung from the chancel crossing of the church, which gets pretty cold in the winter. The bells were rehung by Whitechapel in 1990, and now go very well, and are pleasant to listen to. Parking is in the road by the church path.
(Data:EMB 1980)
Great Witcombe, S Mary the Virgin, 6 bells, Tenor 6-2-20, Grid Ref:SO911148
There is plenty of parking outside the church, and the ringing chamber is at ground floor level at the back of the church. When I rang here, there was a charge of 1 pound per ringer for ringing here, and 18 pounds for a broken stay. The two-tier frame and the fittings are by Gillett & Johnson, Croydon, and date from 1928. The bells go well, but are very loud outside. The fourth may be by the Monmouth branch of the Pennington family (see under Gloucester Cathedral)
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1973)
Guiting Power, S Michael & AA., 6 bells, Tenor 6-2-25, Grid Ref:SP096246
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1975, Church Guide 1985, C.J.Pickford 1993)
Hardwicke, S Nicholas, 6 bells, Tenor 11-3-18, Grid Ref:SO793124
The bells are rung from a small ground floor ringing chamber. They go and handle well, and sound quite good, but the wire rope guides make a lot of rattling noises. They are hung in a 'H' pattern frame with cast iron headstocks and Hastings stays by Taylors, dating from 1927. The old 3rd, replaced in 1927, is on display in the nave, and is a bell from the Bristol foundry c1350-1380, and weighs 6-2-21.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1973, A.M.Bull 1993, C.J.Pickford 1993)
Haresfield, S Peter, 6 bells, Tenor 11-2-13, Grid Ref:SO810104
The third and tenor were recast by Thomas Mears using Rudhall's foundry at Gloucester. The frame and fittings (except the elm headstocks) are by Mears & Stainbank, London, 1953.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1973)
Hartpury, S Mary the Virgin, 6 bells, Tenor 14-1-6, Grid Ref:SO780237
The church is about two miles west of the village. The ringing chamber is reached through the west doors under the tower, and up a wooden staircase. The bells sound OK, but are not very easy to ring. Parking is on the verge outside the west end of the church. The 3rd is lighter than the second, and the note of the tenor is very low for its weight. They were rehung in a new frame in 1927 by Gillett & Johnson of Croydon, who provided new fittings, including ball bearings. There is a tombstone in the churchyard of one 'John Hale blckfmith who Deceafed Septemb ye 9th 1692 ... Crufth by A Bell'. See under Gloucester Cathedral for more about John Pennington.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1971)
Hasfield, S Mary, 6 bells, Tenor 13 cwt, Grid Ref:SO827276
This church is not easy to find, as it is situated away from the lanes and hides behind some trees. There is some parking in the lane or in a grassy car park on the left as you drive up to the church. The ground floor ringing chamber is reached via the south porch. The bells sound OK, but are getting increasingly hard to ring. Sharpe gives the tenor weight as 10.5 cwt. The church was probably founded in c1220, and the tower was started in the 14th century, and the upper stages with gargoyles was added in the late 15th or early 16th century. Interestingly, the dedication of the church in the 14th century was St. Peter, and the tower still retains this original dedication, even though the rest of the building is now dedicated to St. Mary.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1974)
Hatherop, S Nicholas, 6 bells, Tenor 7-1-17, Grid Ref:SP154051
This must be one of the hardest churches to find in the county. It can be clearly seen from afar, but once up close, there does not seem to be any way up to the building. The actual church entrance is up a long path which comes out into the road through a covered gateway at SP156052 near the telephone box. The school next door is private property. The ringing chamber entrance is outside in the north wall of the central tower, which has a pitched roof. The bells are fairly tuneful, go OK, and seem to be well maintained. The tower was the first to win the best kept tower competition of the G&B Association.
(Data:EMB 1978)
Hempsted, S Swithun, 8 bells, Tenor 10-2-12, Grid Ref:SO813170
The ringing chamber is at ground floor level in the chancel. They were rehung in 1979 by the Whitechapel foundry in a new two-tier metal frame, the old bells being retuned at the same time. They sound and go well.
(Data:EMB 1979,R/W Issue No. 3591, DPB 17/4/93)
Hewelsfield, S Mary Magdalene, 6 bells, Tenor 10-2-21 cwt, Grid Ref:SO568022
These are a nice sounding 6 rung from the ground floor in the chancel. The tower is very low, and only just gets higher than the church, hence it is only marked as a 'cross' on the OS map. Parking is in the lane outside the church. The bells were augmented to six with the addition of a redundant bell from St.Savoiur's Eddington, near Hungerford, Berks., in 1979. See under Gloucester Cathedral for more about John Pennington.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1973, online Dove 9/11/07)
Horsley, S Martin, 8 bells, Tenor 13-1-1, Grid Ref:ST837980
(Data:Brian White 1998)
Huntley, S John the Baptist, 6 bells, Tenor 7-0-24, Grid Ref:SO713196
These bells were rehung by Arthur Berry in 1984 and go well. Parking is outside the church on the east side, and the entrance to the ground floor ringing chamber is through the south porch. The founder of the 2nd may well be one of the Baker founders of Hereford, but the founders of the 2nd and 4th can not be positively identified. The interior of the church is rich in marble work and carvings. The nearby garden centre has an excellent tea room and restaurant.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1972, A.M.Bull 1993, C.J.Pickford 1993)
Kemble, All Saints, 6 bells, Tenor 9 cwt, Grid Ref:ST989970
There is parking in the road outside the church. The ground floor ringing chamber is reached through the west doors under the tower. The tenor bell was rehung by Whites of Appleton. The bells sound and go well.
(Data:Brian White 1998)
Kempsford, S Mary the Virgin, 6 bells, Tenor 16-1-14, Grid Ref:SU161964
These are a nice ring of six, hung in a large central tower. There is plenty of parking up the wide church lane and the church entrance is on the north side of the nave. The tower entrance is inside in the north wall of the chancel. There is a large step at the bottom, and some loose carpet to slip on as you jump off this bottom step. The clock hammers are held off by placing large weights on the cables, not by hooking them on the wall. They go well, and sound nice. There is a sealed door to an old room high in the ringing chamber wall, but the floor to this has been removed. The 3rd is by Henry Bagley III, who after travelling around the country a bit, had settled in Whitney by 1732. The treble and fourth have an unusual type of thin lettering, not found anywhere else in the county. The bells were rehung in 1983 by Taylors, and the old 1708 second (weighing 6-0-8) by Abraham Rudhall I was recast.
(Data:EMB 1979,AMB 2003/2005)
Lechlade, S Lawrence, 6 bells, Tenor 13-1-13, Grid Ref:SU215995
There is a small amount of parking car park on the corner of the main street. The tower entrance in inside the west doors of the church on the right, and the ringing gallery is only a few steps up. The bells go well, and sound quite nice, even though the tenor's pitch is very low for its weight.
(Data:EMB 1979)
Leckhampton, S Peter, 8 bells, Tenor 9-1-14, Grid Ref:SO943194
The ringing chamber is in the chancel, behind the altar. The bells are an excellent Taylor octave, and go very well, but the treble is a little on the quiet side. There is a little parking in the layby outside the church. The church door is on the north side of the nave up the church path. The last major restoration was in 1971-2, when a new two tier metal 'H' frame was installed. Interestingly, the inscriptions of the treble and second are exactly the same as the front seven bells at Malvern Link, Worcs, cast in 1900.
(Data:Fred Sharpe 1970, EMB 1979, The Ringing World 3/2/1989)
Leonard Stanley, S Swithun, 6 bells, Tenor 13-3-1, Grid Ref:SO802032
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1971, A.M.Bull 1993, C.J.Pickford 1993)
Littledean, S Ethelbert, 8 bells, Tenor 8-2-12, Grid Ref:SO672136
Parking is in a small car park to the north of the church. The tower entrance is through the west doors of the church, and up some wooden steps. The bells were restored and rehung in 2005 by Whites of Appleton.
(Data:EMB 1980, A.M.Bull 1993, CJP 2006)
Long Newnton, Holy Trinity, 6 bells, Tenor 10-2-2, Grid Ref:ST909924
(Data:C.J.Pickford 1993)
Longborough, S James, 6 bells, Tenor 11-0-2, Grid Ref:SP179298
These were originally a ring of five by Richard Keene of Woodstock, of which only two bells survive. Thy were rehung and augmented by Bond of Burford in 1898, and rehung again by Arthur Berry in 1987 when the 5th was recast. There is a small amount of parking outside the church, and the ringing chamber access is through the church, up a short ladder, and through a trap door. The bells go well, and a notice in the ringing chamber requests that no Quarter peals are rung, although it says nothing about half peals or peals.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1967, DPB 1993)
Longhope, All Saints, 8 bells, Tenor 10-3-11, Grid Ref:SO684198
The ring of 6 was retuned in 1921/2 and rehung in a new frame at that time by Mears. The two new trebles were cast by Taylors in 1985 who also retuned the front 4 of the 6 again. The ringing chamber floor was installed in 1986 by Arthur Berry. There is plenty of parking in the road past the church, and the entrance to the tower is in the south wall of the tower, and across the floor to the tower steps. The bells sound good, and go very well.
(Data:EMB 1979, Ringing World 18/7/1986, A.M.Bull 1993)
Longney, S Lawrence, 8 bells, Tenor 10-3-17, Grid Ref:SO763124
The sixth bell, by Abraham Rudhall I, is unusual for a Rudhall bell, in that it bears a Latin inscription. The frame and fittings date from 1914 and are by Taylors. They are hung on ball bearings. This tower was where the first peal of 165 Spliced Surprise Major was rung.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1971)
Lower Slaughter, S Mary, 6 bells, Tenor 5-3-20 cwt, Grid Ref:SP166226
These bells were restored in 1998/9 by Taylors and are now ringable again after many years.
(Data:Taylors 3/12/1999)
Lydney, S Mary, 10 bells, Tenor 13-2-7, Grid Ref:SO633026
There is parking in the lay-by outside the church, and the tower entrance is inside the bottom of the tower, in the north east corner. The bells go well, and are hung in a frame dating from 1971. They are all hung on ball bearings. The modern trebles are very shrill, and do not match the rest too well. The sixth is one of several bells cast at the Rudhall foundry after Mears had acquired it.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1969,1979)
Maisemore, S Giles, 6 bells, Tenor 10-1-10, Grid Ref:SO814217
There is some parking on the side of the lane by the church. The ground floor ringing chamber is at the back of the church, through the doors. The bells were rehung on new fittings with ball bearings in 1969 by the Whitechapel foundry, and go well. All the bells swing the same way in a wooden frame.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1974)
Meysey Hampton, S Mary, 6 bells, Tenor 9-2-17, Grid Ref:SP117001
(Data:EMB 1979)
Mickleton, S Lawrence, 8 bells, Tenor 15-3-16, Grid Ref:SP162435
There is some parking in the lane on the south side of the church, and some steps and a ramp up to the church. The ringing chamber is at ground floor level, and may be reached through the church, or via the doors at the west end of the tower. The bells go quite well, and sound good, the fittings are 1954 by Taylors.
(Data:EMB 1979)
Minchinhampton, Holy Trinity, 6 bells, Tenor 12-0-8, Grid Ref:SO873007
The bells are all on metal headstocks with ball bearings. They were rehung by Taylors in 1973.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1967)
Minsterworth, S Peter, 6 bells, Tenor 11-0-27, Grid Ref:SO773170
(Data:EMB 1980,DPB 23/8/93)
Mitcheldean, S Michael & AA., 8 bells, Tenor 12-0-6, Grid Ref:SO663186
There is a car park behind the church on the west side. The entrance to the ground floor ringing chamber is through the south porch. The bells go quite well, and sound nice although the 4th shouts somewhat. The front four bells, and the sixth are all that remains of a ring of eight which were cast by Francis Tyler and Thomas Rudhall. Francis Tyler was the works manager and helped Thomas Rudhall out after the death of Abel Rudhall that year. The bells were unringable for many years, being restored by Taylors in 1964.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1974)
Moreton in Marsh, S David, 8 bells, Tenor 10-0-14, Grid Ref:SP206322
(Data:EMB 1979, A.M.Bull 1993)
Moreton Valence, S Stephen, 6 bells, Tenor 10 cwt, Grid Ref:SO779097
The ringing chamber is at ground floor level, and may be reached through the back of the church. The fittings are not in very good condition, but the bells go well enough if they have been lubricated!
(Data:EMB 1981, G.Stickland 1998)
Naunton, S Andrew, 6 bells, Tenor 7-2-16, Grid Ref:SP112234
These were augmented from three to six in 1991/2 by Whites of Appleton, with the new bells being cast at the Whitechapel foundry. They go very well, and sound nice. There is a small car park behind the church, and the ground floor ringing chamber is reached through the back of the church.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1972, Chris Pickford 16/4/93)
Newent, S Mary, 8 bells, Tenor 16-1-4, Grid Ref:SO723259
There is parking in the road outside the church, and the ringing chamber entrance is in the far right hand corner of the tower porch. Bells 2-4 are rung from underneath the clock case, and the ropes go through it, making the draft for these bells rather short. The bells go quite well, and sound OK. They were rehung by Taylors in 1965 with new bearings, headstocks, wheels, clappers, sliders and ropes. Two new trebles were cast in 1983. See under Gloucester Cathedral for more about John Pennington.
(Data:Sharpe 1970, DPB 24/3/93. John Baldwin 3/4/2007)
Newland, All Saints, 6 bells, Tenor 16-1-14, Grid Ref:SO553095
The church is known as 'The Cathedral of the Forest' and it is a splendid building. There is some parking in the lane on the south side of the churchyard. These bells were rehung by Taylors in 1936 and go quite well. The tower entrance normally used is outside in the south east corner of the tower. See under Gloucester Cathedral for more about John Pennington.
(Data:EMB 1980, A.M.Bull 1993. A.Twyman 2005)
Newnham on Severn, S Peter, 8 bells, Tenor 11-0-3, Grid Ref:SO690115
(Data:EMB 1980)
North Cerney, All Saints, 6 bells, Tenor 5-3-0, Grid Ref:SP019078
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1970)
North Nibley, S Martin, 6 bells, Tenor 9-2-25, Grid Ref:ST735961
There is some parking outside the east end of the church. The ringing gallery is reached through the back of the church. The entrance is through the north porch. The bells were restored in 1999 for the millennium (without any aid from the Millennium Commission) by Whites of Appleton.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1973, Ringing World p192/2000, B.Millar 13/3/2002, AMB 2003)
Northleach, SS Peter & Paul, 8 bells, Tenor 18.5 cwt, Grid Ref:SP112146
There is usually plenty of parking in the square. The tower entrance is inside the church in the north east corner of the tower. There is a curious rope guide made out of planks, and one of the bells (3rd?) is drawn over quite a lot, requiring a pulley in the ceiling. The front bells go quite well, but the heavier bells need pulling, and are rather oddstruck. They sound good, and are hung in a wooden frame dating from 1897 by Mears & Stainbank, London.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1975)
Norton, S Mary the Virgin, 8 bells, Tenor 10-3-14, Grid Ref:SO866244
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1971)
Oddington, S Nicholas, 6 bells, Tenor 9-2-20, Grid Ref:SP235256
There is parking for only a few vehicles up the narrow lane to the remotely sited church. This lane is about 1/2 mile long, and it comes out into the main street by the Post office. The ringing chamber is on the ground floor, and the church entrance is on the south side of the nave. There are some old wall paintings which have been uncovered. There is no electric lighting in the church, so ringing is limited to the hours of daylight only. The fourth is the oldest surviving Rudhall bell known. The bells were restored and rehung in 1973/4 by Whitechapel, and as a result sound nice and go very well. Three old headstocks are preserved in the ringing chamber. The frame and fittings date from 1973, and are by Whitechapel. The table of weights in the ringing chamber gives the date of the tenor as c1700, but the date on the bell is almost certainly 1706, since the last two numerals of the inscription are quite different.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1973, DPB 5/2/1993)
Painswick, S Mary the Virgin, 12 bells, Tenor 25-2-19, Grid Ref:SO866096
There is a large, split level, car park south of the church, on the left as you drive south towards Stroud. The churchyard with its rows of ornate yew trees is one of the best in the country. The tower entrance is outside on the north west corner of the tower. The large tower and spire seems out of all proportion to the rest of the church. The bells go very well, and are hung in a Taylors 'H' pattern frame of 1899 with Hastings stays, who also overhauled them and fitted ball bearings in 1979/80. The extra treble and flat sixth hang above the normal sixth in a low side metal frame, and have conventional stays and sliders. The internal acoustics are not very good, and the back bells are quite indistinct, but sound chutes have been arranged to optimise the acoustics for the front ten. Possibly the best place to listen to the ringing is in the churchyard, where the bells sound very good. This tower was the scene of some very early peal ringing and record lengths. One long length peal was discovered to be false after it had been rung. The peal of 13001 Grandsire Cinques rung in 1920 is still the record length in that method. In 1993, the ring was augmented with an extra treble, and the recasting of the two poorly toned trebles by Mears & Stainbank of London in 1887 (treble 4-3-2, 2nd 5-1-4)
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1973, C.J.Pickford 1993, Alan Hodges 30/11/97)
Prestbury, S Mary, 8 bells, Tenor 12-1-22, Grid Ref:SO969239
There is some parking in the lane past the church, and the tower entrance is up a flight of stone steps in the outside of the north wall of the tower, and then through a trap door into the ringing chamber. The bells go well, and they were rehung in 1996/7 by Taylors. The wooden frame dates from 1911 and is by George Day of Eye, Suffolk.
(Data:DPB 25/4/98)
Preston, All Saints, 5 bells, Tenor 6 cwt, Grid Ref:SP044009
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1974)
Quedgeley, S James, 8 bells, Tenor 8-2-8, Grid Ref:SO807142
The previous frame and fittings dated from 1891, except for the 7th, which is from 1977 when the old Rudhall bell was recast. The present frame is a two tier frame - the lower tier dates from 1957 and holds 3,4,6,7 and 8. The upper tier dates from 1993 and holds 1,2 and 5. The tower entrance is outside in the west wall of the tower. The bells go very well and sound good. The ceiling is very low, and the sallies affect the volume of the bells when they pass through the ceiling.
(Data:EMB 1979, C.J.Pickford 1993, AMB 2003)
Randwick, S John the Baptist, 6 bells, Tenor 6-1-25, Grid Ref:SO827067
The founders of the 3rd and 4th are unknown, but the 3rd is of a slightly earlier style. They both came from the same foundry, since the lettering is the same. The two tier 'H' pattern frame was installed by Taylors in 1902 and extended for the new bells in 1968. In order to raise money for the new treble, the Vicar cycled from Land's and to John O' Groats in ten days, averaging about 105 miles each day.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1974)
Redmarley D'Abitot, S Bartholomew, 6 bells, Tenor 9-3-22, Grid Ref:SO752313, RINGING SUSPENDED
Parking is in the lane outside the church against the large brick wall. The tower entrance is outside on the north wall of the tower (ie to the left). The bells sound good and go very well, although they are a little odd struck. They were rehung by Gillett & Johnson of Croydon in 1954, and the fittings were overhauled in 1975 by Whitechapel when the old tenor was recast. Ringing is currently suspended due to concerns about the tower roof.
(Data:EMB 1979)
Rendcomb, S Peter, 6 bells, Tenor 8-1-19,Grid Ref:SP019098
There is a small amount of parking in the road outside the church gate. The frame is by the Gloucester based bell hangers E. & J. Jacques who made some of Rudhall's bell frames before the foundry changed hands. It was fitted with tie bolts for strengthening in 1977. The fittings are also from 1977 by Whites of Appleton. It is rare to find three medieval bells from the same founder still in use in a ring today. In the county today, only Gloucester Cathedral and Shipton Moyne contain bells from the London medieval foundry. It is somewhat strange that these bells were brought from London, when there were active local foundries in Gloucester and Bristol at the same time. John Daniel was casting bells in London during the mid-15th century, and records show that he was probably working between 1456 and 1470. Parking is available in the school grounds at the east end of the church.
(Data:Sharpe 1974, EMB 1979)
Ruardean, S John the Baptist, 8 bells, Tenor 14-2-14, Grid Ref:SO622177
There is plenty of parking in the road outside the church, and the ground floor ringing chamber is reached through the south porch of church down the steps. There is an old disused bell (old 7th) on the church floor by an unknown late 16th century founder. The bells do not go well, and the trebles are very tricky. There are plans to replace the bells with the bells from a closed church in Cumbria.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1972, A.M.Bull 1993)
5
St Briavels, S Mary the Virgin, 8 bells, Tenor 10-2-2, Grid Ref:SO558047
The tower was originally a central tower, and it was rebuilt in 1830, complete with bell frame and bells. The bells were restored and rehung in 1992/3 with a new metal frame installed 13 feet lower than the older one, which had all eight bells swinging north-south. The castle opposite the church is now a Youth Hostel. Access to the ringing chamber is up a metal spiral staircase and through a trap door. The bells go well and sound nice.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1973, C.J.Pickford 1993)
Saintbury, S Nicholas, 8 bells, Tenor 11-0-24, Grid Ref:SP117394
These bells were unringable for many years, and were rehung in 1983 by the Whitechapel foundry. They are now a very nice ring, and are pleasant to listen to. There is no parking near the church, but it is possible to leave cars in the lane, and walk up the path towards the church by the side of the private drive. The ground floor ringing chamber is reached through the church. The third bears a Latin inscription, which is rare for a Rudhall bell. The ring was augmented in 1999 to 8 bells, and dedicated on 31/10/1999.
(Data:Chris Povey 1999)
Sandhurst, S Lawrence, 8 bells, Tenor 15 cwt, Grid Ref:SO828234
(Data:EMB 1972)
Sherborne, S Mary Magdalene, 6 bells, Tenor 9-3-23, Grid Ref:SP169147
There is a well hidden church car park which can be reached via the driveway east of the church. Go through the gates, and turn right in front of the buildings. The track leads round the back of the building, and the parking area is to the left of the wrought iron church gate. The ringing chamber is ground floor, and may be reached through the back of the church, or through the large west doors. The view from the west side of the church is excellent. The bells are pretty rough, need pulling fairly hard and they are not very tuneful. The founder of the fourth is a mystery, but the lettering resembles that from the Worcester Foundry c1410-1430.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1974)
Shipton Moyne, S John the Baptist, 6 bells, Tenor 15-2-14, Grid Ref:ST892897
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1970)
Siddington, S Peter, 6 bells, Tenor 7.25 cwt, Grid Ref:SP035002
There is plenty of parking in the church lane before it bends off to the left, but not much around the bend. The ringing chamber is rather cramped, and the entrance is outside to the left hand side of the tower as you walk up to it. Some of the ropes fall close to the walls of the tower, especially the 3rd.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1974)
Slimbridge, S John the Evangelist, 6 bells, Tenor 12-3-0, Grid Ref:SO740036
The stone vaulted ceiling to the ringing chamber means that these bells are very quiet and difficult to hear. The bells are hung high in the tall tower and there is quite a length of rope as a result. Parking is in the lane by the church, although there is a small car park nearby. The ringing chamber entrance is inside the church in the north eastern corner of the tower. The bells go fairly well apart from the second which has a very springy rope.
(Data:EMB 1980)
South Cerney, All Hallows, 6 bells, Tenor 9-3-10, Grid Ref:SU050973
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1973, A.M.Bull 1993,2003)
Standish, S Nicholas, 6 bells, Tenor 12-0-23, Grid Ref:SO801084
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1971)
Stanton, S Michael & All Angels, 6 bells, Tenor 9-1-16, Grid Ref:SP069344
The frame and fittings are by Bond of Burford. The ringing chamber is at ground floor level, and is cluttered with many other objects. The rope circle is anti-clockwise. Bells by Humphrey and James Keene in partnership are rare. James Keene started founding in Bedford in 1618, and moved to Woodstock in 1622. His father Humphrey sometimes helped him, hence both their names occur on the 2nd-5th. Richard Keene, son of James, took over founding and cast several bells, including the oldest surviving complete ring of six at Martley, Worcs, in 1673. The bells were rehung by A.C.Berry & Co in a new anticlockwise frame in 2006
(Data:Sharpe 1968, Chris Povey 29/1/2006, Online Dove 21/2/08)
Stanway, S Peter, 5 bells, Tenor 11-0-2, Grid Ref:SP061323
This is a lovely village church in a splendid setting. There is a parking in the road past the church, and at the end of the path by the church gates. The tower entrance is around the back of the church, on the north side. The bells were rehung and restored in 2014-5 and augmented to 5. They sound and go well. The second is probably by James Keene of Woodstock. The founder of the tenor is again not known, although it may be by John Martin, but this is six years earlier than his oldest known bell. The lettering is that used by John Martin of Worcester and John Finch of Hereford, but it bears the letters "I.F." or possibly "H.F." on the shield usually found on John Martin's bells with "I.M.".
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1971, Dove online 14-11-2015)
Staunton, Coleford, All Saints, 6 bells, Tenor 9-3-6, Grid Ref:SO551126
(Data:EMB 1980)
Staunton, Tewkesbury, S James, 6 bells, Tenor 9-0-8, Grid Ref:SO782293, RINGING RESTRICTED
Some restoration work has been carried out on the tower, but the bells were not worked on, and have now been declared unringable because of corrosion to the frame caused by the leaking tower roof (which has been fixed). They were last rehung in 1893 by Taylors. On rare occasions, these bells are rung by an invited band.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1972, C.J.Pickford 1993, Michael Williams 1995)
Stinchcombe, S Cyr, 6 bells, Tenor 9-3-20, Grid Ref:ST729988
These bells were rehung in 1971 and are on modern fittings in a two tier metal frame. They were also fitted with an electronic chiming apparatus which was installed at the same time. There was a national outcry when the parishioners suggested that the bells should be hung dead, and sounded electronically. In the end, the compromise was to have both systems. In the evening after the dedication service, the tower was struck by lightning, putting the electronics out of action! The ringing chamber is up in a gallery at the back of the church. The bells sound very nice and go well.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1975)
Stoke Orchard, The Bellflowering, 6 bells, Tenor 0-0-10, Grid Ref:SO922283
This is another private ring. The bells were cast by Matthew Higby and Richard Bowditch and were hung in Andrew Marchant's garage in Walton Cardiff, Tewkesbury. Following a move of house in December 2007 they were stored whilst their new tower was built. They now hang in the roof space of an octagonal summer house in the back garden and were successfully test rung over the Christmas period 2008 . They were originally hung as the back 6 of an 8 in Tewkesbury, since rehanging the rope circle has been closed up to a proper 6 bell circle.
(Data:AM 2005+2009)
Stone, All Saints, 6 bells, Tenor 5.5 cwt, Grid Ref:ST684954
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1971, AMB 2003)
Stonehouse, S Cyr, 6 bells, Tenor 17.5 cwt, Grid Ref:SO800051
The founders of the treble, and the next three bells are not known. The style of lettering on the 2nd-4th does not resemble any lettering on any other bells of the same period. It has been suggested (by Christopher Dalton) that they might be by Roger Purdue I, or by an assistant of his. EMB does not record the weight of the 5th. The back four bells were put on ball bearings in 1923 by Taylors.
(Data:EMB 1980, A.M.Bull 1993, C.J.Pickford 1993)
Stow on the Wold, S Edward, 8 bells, Tenor 27-2-24, Grid Ref:SP191257
(Data:EMB 1980, C.J.Pickford 1993)
Stroud, S Lawrence, 10 bells, Tenor 20-1-20, Grid Ref:SO852053
The entrance to the ground floor ringing chamber is through the door in the west side of the tower. The two tier metal frame was installed by Taylors in 1898. The bells go well, and sound good. There is a record of an early peal rung in 1722 of 5040 Grandsire Triples.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1974)
Swindon Village, S Lawrence, 6 bells, Tenor 10-1-4, Grid Ref:SO934248
The five largest bells were retuned by Taylors in 1985/6, and some new fittings were installed. The 3rd is by an itinerant founder Alexander Rigbe, and is cracked in the crown. This does not yet affect its tone, and during overhaul in the 1980s, nothing was done to either stop or mend the crack. It is the only remaining bell in the county by Alexander Rigbe.
(Data:EMB 1981, Ringing World 18/7/1986)
Temple Guiting, S Mary, 6 bells, Tenor 11-3-17, Grid Ref:SP092279
The bells were rehung in 1971 by Taylors, and are an excellent ring of six. They go well even considering the long draught, and sound superb, although perhaps a little too loud inside the ringing chamber. There is some parking in the lane past the church, and access to the tower is through the main body of the church, through the door in the north wall, and up the stairs in the south east corner. Before 1870, there was a ring of five by Richard Keene of Woodstock. An extra treble was added in 2011.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1975)
Tetbury, S Mary, 8 bells, Tenor 16.75 cwt, Grid Ref:ST891929
There is plenty of parking in a car park over the road from the church. The tower entrance is in outside the church in the north eastern corner of the tower. The bells go well and sound quite nice, the back seven bells are maiden bells showing no signs of tuning. The clock is in the corner of the ringing chamber and makes quite a lot of noise every quarter of an hour, and also when the electric winding operates. At certain times of the day the automatic carillon also joins in. The clock wires are fixed to the ceiling, and some of the ropes (notably the 6th) occasionally hit them. The tower was rebuilt in 1891 and the bells were hung in a new frame. The last rehanging of the bells was carried out in 1965 in memory of Sir Winston Churchill.
(Data:EMB 1979)
Tewkesbury, S Mary the Virgin, 12 bells, Tenor 27-0-5, Grid Ref:SO889323
The Norman Abbey with its large central tower is one of the finest in the country. There are two car parks on the east side of the building. The tower entrance is up a set of outside steps in the north transept, and an intercom is used to remotely control the door. Once up the steps into the roof space of the transept, walk along the gangway, and turn left. There are several more steps up to the ringing chamber level which is through the first door. The bells are hung in one corner of the tower, and the ringing chamber is partitioned off from the rest of the tower. The bells all go very well, and sound very nice. There are toilets and a refectory in the Abbey Visitors' centre. The weights for 1,2,4 and 12 are taken from Taylor's job-book by Andrew Bull.
Semitone bells :-
· Flat Sixth : John Taylor, Loughborough, 1991, 6-3-6
· Extra Treble : John Taylor, 2020, 4-3-7
See this page for more on Tewkesbury Abbey Bells.
(Data:DPB 1993-7, Andrew Bull 27/1/2004)
Tewkesbury, The Shed, 10 bells, Tenor 0-0-16, Grid Ref:SO906330
This is a private ring of 10 bells in my garden shed! The bells were cast by Matthew Higby and Richard Bowditch, and tuned and hung by myself. These bells were originally hung in my parent's garage in Malvern Wells as a six, augmented to 8 by adding a tenor, a treble, and retuning the old 4th bell. The poor sounding 3rd bell was also replaced at this time. On moving the bells to their present location, two trebles were added.
Semitone : Flat 4th, weight and date unknown.
See this page for more on these bells.
(Data:DPB 2000)
The Leigh, S Catherine, 6 bells, Tenor 17.5 cwt, Grid Ref:SO866258
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1971, C.J.Pickford 1993, DPB 12/6/93, MPT 01/11/09)
Tibberton, Holy Trinity, 5 bells, Tenor 7-2-16, Grid Ref:SO757219
These bells were augmented from two to five bells with three bells supplied via the Keltek Trust, the third (originally cast for Holy Trinity Dublin but not used there) being supplied in 2000, and the front two in 2004. The bells were hung by Arthur Berry. The back 3 bells are hung in a metal frame for 3 bells installed in 1908 by Taylors who recast the tenor and retuned the present 4th bell.
(Data:David Kelly 24/12/2004, Andrew Bull 24/1/2005)
Tidenham, S Peter, 6 bells, Tenor 9-2-9, Grid Ref:ST556958
William Jefferies was making bells in the Redcliffe area of Bristol from c1829. He was joined by Price in 1832, and they sold their foundry in 1856. The fourth was cast in the year that Thomas Rudhall was succeeded by Charles and John, and may be by either of them. The frame is from 1896, and all the bells swing the same direction.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1971, A.M.Bull 1993)
Tirley, S Michael, 6 bells, Tenor 10-0-21, Grid Ref:SO840286
There is plenty of parking on the wide verge outside the church. The ground floor ringing chamber is reached through the back of the church. All the bells swing the same way in a metal 'H' frame by Taylors in 1893. They sound nice, and go very well. These were probably a complete ring by Charles and John Rudhall, and John had to recast some of them soon afterwards. This procedure was not uncommon at the Rudhall foundry. The church is inaccessible when the river Severn is in flood.
(Data:EMB 1980, C.J.Pickford 1993)
Toddington, S Andrew, 6 bells, Tenor 6.5 cwt, Grid Ref:SP035331
There is a church car park outside the church hall, which looks smaller that it actually is! The tower entrance is in the west wall of the tower, and the staircase is wide to start with, getting slightly smaller at the top, with a strange shaped final twist. The outside of the church is fairly ordinary, but the inside is excellent, and the organ is one of the finest in the area. The bells go OK, and are quite loud and harsh, since the frame is part of the ringing chamber ceiling. It is possible to see the ceiling move while the bells are ringing!
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1973, A.M.Bull 1993)
Todenham, S Thomas of Canterbury, 6 bells, Tenor 12-2-10, Grid Ref:SP243363
There are a complete ring by Abraham Rudhall I, the only others in the county being the ring at Willersey. They were rehung by Taylors in 1987. The ringing chamber is at ground floor level, and the bells go quite well. There is plenty of parking on the side of the road past the church.
(Data:EMB 1979, Garry Barr, 1993, C.J.Pickford 1993)
Tredington, S John the Baptist, 6 bells, Tenor 7-2-7, Grid Ref:SO905295
There is room to park cars in the road past the church, and the tower is almost entirely built out of wood. The ground floor ringing chamber is at the back of the church. There is a large fossilised fish dinosaur in the church porch, and it is just possible to make it out on the east side of the floor. The bells go well, but are a little flighty, especially the trebles. The 2nd was welded by Soundweld Ltd in 1981, and actually appears on their advertising literature, taken from Metal Construction Magazine, 1983. The inscription of this bell is interesting in that it reads 'ABRA RVDHALL IVNIOR 1700'. This could only refer to Abraham Rudhall II who was about 20 years old at this time, and is the earliest bell to bear his name. He took over the foundry when his father retired in 1718, but actually died shortly before Abraham Rudhall I in 1736. The treble is a second hand bell from Bishopstoke, Hants, and was hung in October 1997.
(Data:EMB 1974)
Twyning, S Mary Magdalene, 6 bells, Tenor 9-3-16, Grid Ref:SO894361
There is a small amount of parking in the area outside the church path, and the ringing chamber entrance is up the steps on the far (southern) side of the tower. The bells are a complete ring by Abraham Rudhall II from 1723. The frame mainly dates from the 15th C, and it has been heavily modified over the years by Rudhall's bellhangers, Bond of Burford, and Whitechapel. A much better example of an old mediaeval frame is found locally at Little Malvern Priory, Worcs. The bells were removed from the tower for rehanging with new fittings by Taylors on 11/2/95. A new separate two bell metal frame has been installed, leaving the old four bell frame intact as a working bell frame.
(Data:Sharpe 1973, Chris Pickford 16/6/95)
Upper Slaughter, S Peter, 5 bells, Tenor 13-0-14 SP155232
There is usually plenty of parking in the 'square' in the middle of the village, and the church path leads up to the building from the north western corner of this cap park. The ringing chamber is at ground floor level, behind the screen at the back of the church. The bells go quite well, and are hung on ball bearings. The fourth appears to be from the Bristol foundry, but its well moulded Latin inscription is not typical of the 15th C bells cast in Bristol. The second is one of a few "Royal Heads" bells in the county. The frame was originally for three bells, and was extended for five bells, possibly at two different dates, since the styles of frame used to create two extra pits are not the same.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1972, C.J.Pickford 1993)
Upton St Leonards, S Leonard, 8 bells, Tenor 15-3-10, Grid Ref:SO862149
(Data:EMB 1981)
Watermoor (Cirencester), Holy Trinity, 8 bells, Tenor 19-2-22, Grid Ref:SP027013
There is some parking in the road past the church, and the ground floor ringing chamber is reached through the main church doors. The bells go OK, and sound very nice indeed, especially outside in the churchyard. The two trebles are on metal headstocks, but the rest are hung on elm ones.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1974, C.J.Pickford 1993)
Westbury on Severn, SS Peter & Paul, 6 bells, Tenor 20-0-7, Grid Ref:SO717138
(Data:Sharpe 1970, A.M.Bull 1993, Dove online 19/1/15)
Whitminster, S Andrew, 6 bells, Tenor 15-0-5, Grid Ref:SO761091
The church drive (entrance at SO762090) leads across the field to the church, and there is an ample amount of parking. The ringing chamber entrance is inside the church in the north wall of the tower. The two tier timber frame frame and fittings are by Gillett & Johnson of Croydon, 1889. The exact founder of the 5th is not known. The bells are not easy to ring well, being very oddstruck, but they sound rather sonorous.
(Data:C.J.Pickford 1993, AMB/CJP 2003)
Willersey, S Peter, 6 bells, Tenor 12 cwt, Grid Ref:SP107397
These are the only complete maiden (untuned) ring by Abraham Rudhall I in the county. The metal frame and the modern style fittings are by Mears & Stainbank of London, and date from 1936. The bells were not tuned or weighed at this time. They go well and sound nice. The ringing chamber entrance is outside in the south east corner of the tower up some (slippy) outside steps.
(Data:EMB 1979)
Winchcombe, S Peter, 8 bells, Tenor 11-2-11, Grid Ref:SP023283
There is some parking in the road past the church, and the tower entrance is from inside the church in the north east corner of the tower, behind a curtain. There is a toilet underneath the ringing chamber. There is a large partition with diamond shaped windows in the ringing chamber. The bells sound very nice, and go well, but the rope draft is perhaps a little long for comfort. In the church there is an old 'cello, and the east window depicts a large ship. They were completely retuned and rehung in 1967 by John Taylor & Co. of Loughborough. In June 1997, two trebles were added to complete the octave.
(Data:EMB 1979)
Windrush, S Peter, 6 bells, Tenor 7-1-13, Grid Ref:SP194131
These are a nice six which hang in a new anticlockwise(!) frame by Whites of Appleton. The ringing chamber is at ground floor level at the back of the church. There is plenty of parking in the lanes outside the church.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1974, DPB 7/7/2001)
Winstone, S Bartholomew, 6 bells, Tenor 10-0-3, Grid Ref:SO966093
Prior to 1979, there were three bells here. In 1979, a rather unusual type of rehanging took place. The old 2nd was removed, and was used to replace a poor sounding Blews bell at Deerhurst. The old mediaeval frame was carefully removed, and was re-erected in the redundant church at Charfield, Glos. The present 4th and 6th were the treble and 3rd of the old ring. Four bells taken from another redundant church, this time that of S.John, Northgate, Gloucester, were retuned, and hung in a new frame for six, made by the Whitechapel foundry. The fourth is one of several bells in the area to be attributed to John of Gloucester who appears in the Gloucester Corporation records of 1346. There is evidence that he also cast four blank bells in the west tower of Ely Cathedral in 1354, following recent research by Chris Pickford. The four Ely bells are very slightly different to most of the bells so far attributed to John of Gloucester, but one at Little Malvern Priory bears a much closer resemblance.The 4th here appears to be in the later group, so is probably not by John of Gloucester.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1969)
Withington, S Michael, 6 bells, Tenor 11-0-24, Grid Ref:SP032157
There is a little parking by the church gate. The tower entrance is behind the church, and up a wooden spiral staircase. The bells go very well and sound very good, having been restored in 1981 by Whites of Appleton with new a wooden frame and canon retaining headstocks. There is a good pub on the corner of the lane 200 yards below the church.
(Data:CJP 6/2/2005)
Woodchester, S Mary, 6 bells, Tenor 9-3-23, Grid Ref:SO840026
These were restored and rehung in 1956 by Mears & Stainbank. The frame is a two tier metal one, and the bells are hung on ball bearings. The treble was cast by Abel Rudhall in 1759, but the date has been erased, and 1761 incised on the shoulder above the inscription band. Abel died in 1760, so it is strange that there is a two year gap between the casting and when it was donated and hung in 1761. It is not unknown for unsuitable inscription texts to be erased (Eg Bromsberrow), but here only the date has been removed.
(Data:EMB 1980)
Woolaston, S Andrew, 5 bells, Tenor 7 cwt, Grid Ref:ST587994, UNRINGABLE
These bells have not been rung in living memory, and are now completely derelict. See under Gloucester Cathedral for more about John Pennington.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1972)
Woolstone, S Martin of Tours, 6 bells, Tenor 4-3-8, Grid Ref:SO961303
There is some parking in the lane past the church, and the church entrance is on the south side of the chancel. The ringing chamber is ground floor. This tower leans alarmingly, but is in no danger of collapse. It is actually 15 inches out of vertical at the top, and none of the ropes appear to fall straight downwards! The church guide describes the tower as Perpendicular, but it is referring to the style of architecture. The ground floor ringing chamber is reached through the church. The bells go very well, but the trebles are rather light and flighty. Prior to 1974, there was a derelict ring of 3 bells, of which the two smallest were cracked and broken. In 1974, these two bells were recast, and three trebles added to form a new ring of 6. They were hung in a new frame and fittings by John Taylor of Loughborough. The inscription bands of two smallest bells of the old ring are displayed in the ringing chamber. There is another bell by Tobie Norris at Churchdown, but bells by him so far away from Stamford are quite unusual.
(Data:EMB+Sharpe 1973, 1980)
Wotton under Edge, S Mary the Virgin, 8 bells, Tenor 18-2-0, Grid Ref:ST760935
(Data:EMB 1980)
Wotton Under Edge, The Joynson Ring, 6 bells, Tenor 0-0-11
This is another private ring. The bells were cast by Matthew Higby in 2018 and hung by Isaac O'Shea and James Joynson in 2020.
(Data:James Joynson 2020)
Wyck Rissington, S Lawrence, 4 bells, Tenor 6-3-16, Grid Ref:SP192215
(Data:EMB 1980)
Books/Publications used in collecting this information.