The Church Bells of St. Mary’s Hanbury
The bells of St. Mary’s Church in Hanbury have been an iconic part of our community for centuries, filling the air with their timeless sound. These eight bells, with their deep resonance and harmonious peal, continue to serve as a reminder of faith, tradition, and fellowship in Worcestershire.
A Brief History
The bells at St. Mary’s Church have a rich history that spans several centuries. Cast over the years and carefully maintained, the bells are as integral to the church today as they were when first placed in the tower. Originally hung in the 17th century, the bells have undergone refinements and refurbishments to maintain their tone and integrity.
Our eight bells are a beloved part of local life, rung to announce church services, weddings, and special events, as well as for national celebrations and moments of reflection.
The Eight Bells of St. Mary’s
St. Mary’s Church is home to a peal of eight bells, each cast with care and skill to create a rich, harmonious sound. The bells were originally cast by renowned bellfounders and have been carefully maintained over the years to preserve their beautiful tone.
The bells are:
- Tenor Bell – Weighing 14 cwt (cwt = hundredweight), this is the largest and lowest-pitched bell.
- Second Bell – Weighs 10 cwt, producing a slightly higher note than the tenor.
- Third Bell – Weighing 7 cwt.
- Fourth Bell – Weighing 6 cwt.
- Fifth Bell – A lighter bell at 5 cwt, with a higher pitch.
- Sixth Bell – Weighing 4 cwt.
- Seventh Bell – A small, bright bell weighing 3 cwt.
- Treble Bell – The smallest, weighing 2 cwt and producing the highest note.
These eight bells are tuned to provide a full, rich peal that is used for the traditional art of change ringing. The bells are rung regularly by the Hanbury bell ringers, whose skill and dedication keep this centuries-old tradition alive.
The Bells in The Archers
The bells of St. Mary’s Church have a special connection to the famous BBC Radio 4 soap opera, The Archers. The church bells feature prominently in the opening sequence of the show, which has been a part of British radio for over 70 years. Their sound serves as a reminder of the rural setting of The Archers and brings an authentic local touch to the fictional world of Ambridge.
Listeners to The Archers may recognize the distinctive peal of the bells, linking our beloved church to the national cultural landscape. Whether you’re a fan of the show or a local, the sound of the bells continues to play a role in both our community and in the stories that reach millions of listeners.
The Art of Change Ringing
Change ringing is a unique tradition in which the bells are rung in a specific order, creating intricate patterns of sound. It requires great skill, concentration, and coordination among the bell ringers. At St. Mary’s, the bell ringers work together to produce peals of varying lengths—from short sequences for regular services to longer, celebratory peals for special occasions.
Our bell ringers, who are passionate about preserving this tradition, gather regularly to practice and ensure that the bells are rung in the time-honoured fashion. Whether you are visiting during a regular Sunday service or at a special event, hearing the bells ring is a moving experience that connects us to generations before us.
Joining the Bell Ringers
Bell ringing at St. Mary’s is not just a task—it’s a deeply rewarding tradition. We encourage anyone interested in learning this historic craft to join us. Whether you’re a beginner or have experience, there is always space for new ringers. Learning the art of change ringing is a fantastic way to engage with the church community, improve concentration and teamwork, and be part of a centuries-old tradition.
Regular practices and sessions are held, and all are welcome to come and find out more about this fascinating skill. No prior experience is needed—just a willingness to learn and a sense of community spirit!
The Bells and the Community
For many, the sound of the bells at St. Mary’s Church is an enduring symbol of faith, hope, and continuity. The bells have echoed through the generations, marking key moments in life—from births and weddings to times of celebration and remembrance.
The eight bells at Hanbury are a living, breathing part of our church’s heritage. They remind us of the strength of community and the timeless nature of faith. Whether you’re attending a service, witnessing a wedding, or simply strolling through the village, the sound of our bells ties us all together in a shared moment of joy, reflection, or celebration.
If you’re interested in learning more about the bells, want to hear them in person, or even try your hand at bell ringing, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. We would be delighted to share this beautiful tradition with you.