History of bell ringing

At over 400 years old, bell ringing has a rich and long history which, often, reflects many of the major changes the country has also gone through during this time.

After the Reformation (1547) many sets of bells were repaired and re-hung for ‘change ringing’ (it was the latest technology at the time!). Ringing became very popular with ‘lay’ people and various Associations were formed. The Ancient Society of College Youths (founded in 1637) is the oldest surviving Association.

During the reign of James II (1633-1688) bell ringing became extremely fashionable amongst the aristocracy as it provided physical exercise and intellectual stimulation. The first true peal (a extent of ringing with over 5 000 different variations in) was believed to have been rung on May 2nd 1715 at St Peter Mancroft, Norwich.

During the Second World War bell ringing was banned, but was quickly reinstated with peace. And more recently, all over the world bells were rung on January 1st 2000 to celebrate the new millennium.