We created this web site because we wanted you to see what we do.  You can't usually see us ringing or meet us to find out what a fascinating, rewarding  team activity bell ringing is.

We hope that this will make you curious and you will want to come and visit us in the tower when the bells are ringing.  As what we do is not usually seen, it is difficult for us to recruit ringers.

St Mary's needs more ringers to keep this ancient art going and to ensure that Lydney's bells continue to be heard.

The large tower and steepling spire of St Marys church are visible for a good distance from the town. This large church is mostly Early English, with the tower, aisled nave and chancel dating from the 13th century. The east window and that in the south aisle contain Early English stained glass, whilst in contrast, in the north aisle is a modern window showing the Franz Joseph glacier in New Zealand. This was given in 1941 by Lord Bledisloe to commemorate his tour of duty as Governor of New Zealand.

The Church is mentioned in 13th century documents and was built in the Early English style, as was Lydney's Preaching Cross. Its monuments and inscriptions show the influence of the Bathurst family on the town from the 18th century to the present day.

Lydney, S Mary, 10 bells, Tenor 13-2-7, Grid Ref:SO633026

There is parking in the lay-by outside the church, and the tower entrance is inside the bottom of the tower, in the north east corner. The bells go well, and are hung in a frame dating from 1971. They are all hung on ball bearings. The modern trebles are very shrill, and do not match the rest too well. The sixth is one of several bells cast at the Rudhall foundry after Mears had acquired it.

Treble : John Taylor, Loughborough, 1974, 3-3-11
2nd : John Taylor, Loughborough, 1974, 3-3-19
3rd : John Taylor, Loughborough, 1900, 4-1-7
4th : John Taylor, Loughborough, 1900, 4-1-24
5th : Abraham Rudhall I, Gloucester, 1703, 5-0-8
6th : Thomas Mears, Gloucester, 1841, 5-3-4
7th : Abraham Rudhall I, Gloucester, 1700, 6-0-14
8th : John Taylor, Loughborough, 1971, 7-3-11
9th : John Rudhall, Gloucester, 1797, 9-1-18
Tenor : Abraham Rudhall I, Gloucester, 1700, 13-2-7 in F