Bell-Ringing
Carlisle Cathedral has a ring of 13 bells (tenor 21cwt) in the key of E flat. Ten bells were cast and hung in a new frame in 1999 and three treble bells (including a sharp second) were added between 2000 and 2005. Five of the original ring of eight bells are also preserved in the belfry including Maria who was cast in 1401 and had served the church community for six hundred years.
JOIN OUR BELL-RINGERS
PRACTICE EVENINGS
Fridays from 7.30pm to 9pm
All visiting ringers (and non-ringers) are very welcome but should first contact Anne East on 01228 513633 to ensure that ringing is taking place and we can accommodate you safely in the tower. Meet at the south door at 7.15pm. The door will be locked shortly afterwards and visitors arriving after that time will not be able to join the practice.
SERVICE RINGING
Sundays 9.30am to 10.30am
All visiting ringers are very welcome. Non-ringing visitors should first contact Anne East on 01228 513633 to ensure that we can accommodate you safely in the tower. Meet at the crossing inside the Cathedral at 9.20am
LEARN TO RING
The ringers are pleased to welcome anyone who would like to learn how to ring or is just interested in the history of bells and bellringing. There are six experienced teachers of ringing available. The tower also has a simulator which allows bell handling to be taught without disturbing the surrounding community. Individual teaching lessons can be offered on most days.
BELL TOWER OPEN DAYS
Our Bell Tower Open Days provides an opportunity to discover more about Bell ringing, perfect for those interested in learning a new skill. Discover the history of Bellringing and see the Bell Ringers in action.
The next Bell Tower Open Days- TBC
Visit the Bells
BELL-TOWER TOURS
Take a tour of the Cathedral as you have never seen it before and find out more about our ring of bells at a Bell Tower tour day..
You will be met by a member of our Bell Tower Ringing Team before climbing the steps to the bell-tower; on the way you’ll discover some of the history of the Cathedral and get some magnificent views of the medieval glass in the Eastern window, the Ewan Christian starlight ceiling and the Father Willis organ. Once inside the ringing room you will have a chance to see the bell-ringers in action and learn more about this ancient skill.
Saturday 22 July, 9th August, 19th August and 30th August at 10am, 11am, 1.30pm and 2.30pm
Tours last about 1 hour. There are four tours each day, starting at 10:00. Places are limited so booking in advance is advised.
Adults £10 / 8 to 16 years FREE
Note that children must be at least 8 years of age and be accompanied by an adult.
There are 137 steps to climb to the bell chamber and the route includes some confined spaces.
For more information on bell ringing at Carlisle Cathedral, email Anne East (01228 513633)
