Bell Ringing at St Barnabas

The imposing tower at St Barnabas, Great Tey, has probably housed bells for over a thousand years, and the current ring of 8 bells is historically significant, with the oldest bell dating back to 1626.

Ringing bells that swing in a full circle to create changes in the order, (Change Ringing), is an English tradition that has marked worship and historic events for hundreds of years. From simple ringing in descending order (Rounds), and called changes where two bells swap places, the craft developed to encompass complex methods to make musical sounds and mathematical patterns, all from memory.

Our church is blessed with an enthusiastic band of ringers who keep the tradition alive in Great Tey. We have qualified teachers who instruct our learners and we extend a warm welcome to anybody wishing to learn the craft. Our youngest ringers are at school in the village, whilst our oldest have bus passes. Men and women ring equally well and you don’t need a musical ability.

Practices are held on Tuesdays at 7.30, as well as on Saturday mornings from 9.30. Ringers are always a social bunch and the practice sessions are often discussed at great length in the pub afterwards.

The sound of bells is the traditional accompaniment for weddings, or funerals and this can be arranged. Visits to view the bells and ringing for specific occasions can also be arranged, via the contact page on this website.

If you are interested in joining the ringers and/or learning to change ring, see the ‘Contact’ page for details of how to get in touch.

A current appeal

We are currently making an appeal for some minor alterations which will make learning and ringing easier and safer. Details are here.