Ringing Church Bells: FAQ

Every town and large village in Britain and Ireland has a church. Most of these churches have bells.

Church bells are found in most older churches in Britain and Ireland. They are rung on special occasions like weddings and funeral. Today there are an estimated 40,000 volunteers ringing the bells in Britain’s churches.

Do you need to be strong to ring church bells?

When you have learnt how to do it, controlling a bell is easy. Most church bells can be rung by someone of average physical strength.

Is bell ringing hard work?

Not unless the bells are very heavy or there is something wrong with them.

Are all bell ringers older men?

Ringers are male and female, old and young.  They include students, pensioners and workers from all different backgrounds

Do ringers swing on bell ropes?

No. It is possible for someone to be lifted into the air – but this is very rare. Bell ringing is very safe if you follow safety rules

Is bell ringing only open to church goers?

Churches generally welcome bell ringers from all faiths or none. Some ringers are members of the church where they ring, but many are not.

Quick Check: True or false?

1. Very few churches now have bells.
2. Church bells are usually housed in a bell tower or belfry.
3. Bell ringers never work hard
4. Bell ringers are always young physically strong.
5. Most bell ringers enjoy swinging on the ropes
6. Only church goers are permitted to ring bells

English Language Level: intermediate: A2?1B1

Listening: This is the first part of a funny story about a bishop and a bell ringer. Write down three things you do not think are true.

Listening: Quick Check – choose from words below to fill the gaps

1. There once was a —– church with a bell tower
2. Bob Buxton —– the church bell for sixty five years.
3. On his — birthday Bob —
4. They bishop said, “I can’t find anyone to — you, Bob.
5. The bishop’s — is getting married.

rung * tall * tiny * retired * niece * 9th * 90th * release * replace

Read & listen to the whole story here

Bell Idiom – Reading Worksheet * Vocabulary Extension Worksheet