Norman Tower visits Heritage Open Days 2025

Enjoy a brief history of the Norman Tower, find out about the bells in the Tower and hear about the art of bellringing!

The Norman Tower was previously the main gateway to the Abbey. The Norman Tower is detached from the Cathedral and was built between 1120 and 1148 and is one of the oldest Norman buildings in the UK and one of the most complete Norman buildings in England.

A peal of twelve bells are located in the Norman Tower. The original ten bells were cast in 1785 by Thomas Osborn of Downham Market. In 1973 the bells were rehung in an iron frame at a lower level in the Tower. Following a public appeal, a further two bells were added at Easter 2012. A thirteenth bell was added in 2013 which allows beginners to practice with a full octave, without having to use the three heaviest bells. The bells are rung on Sundays before the morning and evening services and also for weddings and other special occasions.

This will include a demonstration of bellringing. There are timed visits lasting 45 minutes.

Times: Saturday 13 September: 9:45am, 10:45am, 11:45am, 1:30pm, 2:30pm, 3:30pm & Thursday 18 September 2pm - 5pm
Tickets: Free of charge
Booking: Essential for Saturday 13 September, please visit the Eventbrite website. Not essential for Thursday 18 September.
Venue: St Edmundsbury Cathedral

This event is promoted by St Edmundsbury Cathedral