Small Town, Big Tower: Tour of St.Mary's Bruton
St. Mary's Church, Silver Street, Bruton, Somerset, BA10 0EB
Described as one of the grandest examples of the Mendip Gothic-style towers, the West Tower dominates the skyline of Bruton and provides extraordinary views over the town and lands once owned by Bruton Abbey. It is a must-visit landmark.
You enter the tower through a slender, arched medieval doorway, the bottom step worn by the feet of centuries of ringers. You climb the narrow, spiralling staircase to reach the Ringing Room where we will show you the ropes and give you the chance to chime our 1.3-ton tenor bell.
Continue your journey upward to the Clock Room and hear the history of our clock that celebrates its 160th anniversary this year, an astonishing brass and iron contraption that was state-of-the-art for its time.
Then, step up to the Bell Chamber that houses our six heavy bells. The star attraction here is Bell No. 4 cast in 1528. It has rung across the town for almost 500 years, from Renaissance to our Digital Era. It’s truly an incredi-bell.
Finally, emerge onto the roof. Amongst the pinnacles, gain a fresh perspective on all that Bruton has to offer; Hauser & Wirth Gallery, the Dovecote, King’s Bruton School, Sexey’s Hospital, the High Street, King Alfred’s Tower, and the countryside all around.
History, heritage, and culture; the West Tower of St. Mary’s Bruton is truly a living landmark. We look forward to welcoming you!
Timings
- Saturday 19 September:
- Tours will run through the day (1000 to 1700).
Location & directions
St. Mary's Church, Silver Street, Bruton, Somerset, BA10 0EB
- Directions:
- It's the big church opposite Church Bridge. Free parking can be found at Station Road Car Park, opposite Godminster Cheese. There are also some parking spaces on the road along Plox.
- Contact on day:
- Joe Wheller
- Telephone number:
- +447437875333
Booking information
- Pre-booking requirement:
- Pre-booking not required
Accessibility details
The tower is a medieval building. Unfortunately, this constrains accessibility. The tower can only be accessed via a narrow, spiral staircase. It is not suitable for those who use mobility aids or who find it difficult to walk up stairs unaided. Whilst we pause at a number of stages, we suggest this tour is also not suitable for those with a serious heart or respiratory condition. Also, please note that there are no toilet facilities at St. Mary's Church.
Additional information
- Max number of people:
- 10
- Estimated duration:
- 0 hour(s) 45 minute(s)
