Rare Pensford tour set to be head and shoulders above the rest.

A unique opportunity to climb the legendary fourteenth-century tower of St Thomas à Becket Church as several tours are planned for Sunday 14th September.

The Grade II* listed church, which has stood at the heart of the village for centuries, is opening its tower to the public as part of a special community event. Those who take part in the tours will be rewarded with spectacular views of Pensford and its towering viaduct, and an insight into the history and heritage of one of Pensford’s most iconic landmarks. Three tours are set to take place on Sunday 14th September at 14.00, 15.00 and 16.00.

Most days visitors are welcomed into the chapel room in the base of the tower, where they can admire an elaborate vaulted ceiling, a perpendicular font, seventeenth-century pulpit, and text and benefaction boards.

Access to the area above, however, is limited to special event days. Lucky visitors can view a rare medieval bell frame (see image below) dating from the early sixteenth-century. The tower, the oldest surviving part of the church, has three stages, with unusual fifteenth-century windows to the top stage.

A spokesperson for the church said:

“The tower at St Thomas à Becket is such a distinctive feature of Pensford’s skyline, but few people have the chance to climb it. These tours are a wonderful opportunity for local people to connect with the village’s history, and to see Pensford from a completely new perspective.”

Tour spaces are limited for each session, with visitors advised to arrive early to avoid disappointment! The climb involves steep steps, so sensible footwear is recommended. This historic church is maintained by the Churches Conservation Trust, a registered charity that works to conserve 357 historic churches across England.

Numbers are limited to 6 persons per tour so bookings can be made in advance by contacting Garry Atterton via email. garryatterton@hotmail.com. Donations can be made on the day, with suggested donations of £5 - £10 for tower tours.