THE BUILDING


HISTORY

Cartmel Priory was founded in about 1189 by William Marshall, Baron of Cartmel, and Earl of Pembroke. For more than 800 years since then the Priory Church has been a house of prayer. A prior and twelve monks (symbolizing Christ and the Apostles) came from Bradenstoke Priory in Wiltshire, where Williams father was buried, as the founding community. Their main duty was to offer prayer for William's family in perpetuity. There were nine services each day. From the outset it was established that the people should always have a right to worship in part of the Priory. Little did the founder realize how this minor condition would save the Priory Church from complete destruction 350 year later.


ARCHITECTURE & CONTENTS

Cartmel Priory Church was built during changing times in monastic architecture. Here are found three distinct periods: Transitional Norman (1190-1250) Decorated (1320-1350) and Perpendicular (1400-1450). A fully illustrated guide is available at Cartmel Priory Bookstall.

The Bells

The ringing of the Priory bells is an integral part of the worship at Cartmel. They are appreciated by both worshippers and the local community. For the Priory's octocentenary in 1988 the bells were reorganised, with much heavy work done by parishioners. The old timber bell frame was replaced by a metal one and four new bells were cast by Royal Eijsbouts Foundry in the Netherlands. This formed a new peal alongside the "old peal" of six. The older bells comprise two cast in 1661 by Scott of Wigan; in 1726 and 1729 Evans of Chepstow cast two more; Taylors of Loughborough cast two trebles in 1932. The 1661 tenor is still used for tolling and clock chiming.

The Bellringers

The bells are rung regularly for services, festivals and weddings, as well as to "ring in the new year" at midnight on 31st December each year.

Bellringing practices take place twice weekly. Visitors are welcome, and Cartmel is a popular tower for inclusion in ringing trips throughout the year. If you wish to visit and ring at Cartmel, on practice night or any other time, please contact the Tower Secretary, Sandie Mills (Tel. 015395 36603) or the Tower Captain, Dai Hunt (Tel 015395 36448).

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