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Betchworth, St Michael

Address: 
Church Street, Betchworth, RH3 7DN
Number of bells: 
8
Tenor Weight: 
11 cwt
Practice night: 
Tuesday
Ringing Times: 

Sunday Service: 10.30 - 11.00am (1st, 2nd and 4th); 9.30 - 10.00am (alternate 3rd and 5th with Buckland)
Practice: 8.00 - 9.30 pm

Ground floor ring: 
No
Tower Entry Details: 

Entry is through the external door on the south side of tower to 1st floor ring via a low ceilinged spiral staircase

Contact: 

sdsec [at] surreybellringers [dot] co [dot] uk (subject: Enquiry from Surrey Association web site) (Southern District Secretary)

Location: Map Ref: TQ211497

History

Church is of Norman or earlier foundation. The first documented mention of bells occurs in 1553, when there were “Item in the steple four bells, one of theym is broken”. Church records show dealings with R Phelps of London in 1721 for recasting of the tenor, including a payment for a letter (5d), requesting despatch of the clapper, forgotten when sending the bell for recasting.

The central crossing tower, was rebuilt in 1851 over the South Transept, and held the 5 bells. These were replaced in 1876 by a six by Blews of Birmingham, augmented to eight in 1897 by Mears, and re-hung by the local band in conjunction with the Whitechapel foundry in 1985.

Transport

  • By Road: Betchworth village (duly signposted) lies 1 mile south of the A25 midway between Reigate and Dorking. Church Car Park to north of church, entered from Church Street.
  • By Bus: Route 32 from Dorking to Redhill. Ask for Betchworth Post Office and use the footpath opposite.
  • By Train: To Betchworth station, ½ mile to the north of village, on the Redhill to Guildford line. 20 minute walk. NB only some trains stop at Betchworth.

Facilities

No WC on site.

The Dolphin in The Street, opposite the church serves good beer (Youngs), but no children allowed inside the building. A beer garden is available for summer use, with or without children. Food is also served, from ‘bar snacks’ to ‘restaurant’ standard, but large numbers may require pre-booking (01737 842288), as it is popular.

Betchworth, St Michael