ARTE Re: Church Bell Ringing - Vincent Productions GmbH

On Sunday mornings, when the bells of the old church in the picturesque village of Bisley in the Cotswolds ring out, it’s usually Ian Bucknell and his team behind the ropes. Depending on the occasion, they follow precise mathematical sequences to set the centuries-old bells in motion.

Ian has been a church bell ringer for 45 years – a passion shared by his father and grandfather before him, part of a deeply rooted British tradition. Through this hobby, he met his wife 40 years ago, and together they have rung bells in churches all across England. “Church bell ringing,” Ian says, “is as much a part of England as the Royal Family or afternoon tea.” Twice a week, the Bell Ringers of Bisley meet to practice their patterns — a craft that requires perfect timing, sharp hearing, and full concentration.

But the tradition is at risk: fewer young people are taking up bell ringing. Ian has made it his mission to change that. Through workshops and special trips to churches across the country, he’s inspiring a new generation — with success.

One of his most talented protégées is 17-year-old Daisy. She has been ringing for nine years and plans to continue when she goes to university — alongside athletics and swimming. In the film, Daisy shares what fascinates her about bell ringing, and why this ancient tradition still captivates a “perfectly normal” teenager today.

In London, bell ringing also plays a major role. Susan “Swaz” Apter knows most of the city’s churches. Whether it’s a royal coronation or the Queen’s funeral, Swaz is among the most renowned bell ringers in the country.

She began as a child in a small parish near London and quickly fell in love with the art of bell ringing — a passion that became her life. She loves it for its physical and mental challenge, but also for the friendships it fosters. “Bell ringers,” she laughs, “can always find an excuse to head to the pub, throw a party, or meet up in London.” For her, it’s also a source of national pride — bell ringing has been part of Britain’s cultural identity for centuries.

Swaz met her husband through bell ringing, too. They shared this passion around the world, until he passed away from cancer ten years ago. She says her bell ringing team became her family and helped her carry on. Then came an even harder blow: during the pandemic, all bell ringing stopped — and Swaz was diagnosed with leukemia. She had to pause her beloved pastime, but she says ringing the bells gave her the strength to fight the illness and recover.

This documentary follows Ian, Daisy, and Swaz as they ring the bells — and as they go about their daily lives, whether cooking, high jumping, or gardening. What makes bell ringing so special? Where does the challenge lie, and why does this centuries-old British tradition still resonate today?

First broadcast: November 7, 2025, at 7:40 p.m. on ARTE

Now Available to stream online