12th Century Bell Tower in Yarpole: Tenth Oldest Timber Structure In England
This 12th century bell tower in Yarpole, Herefordshire is the tenth oldest timber structure in England.
Dendrochronology testing revealed that the bell tower was probably constructed in 1192.
This makes it not only one of the oldest towers, but one of the earliest surviving timber-framed buildings of any type in all of England.
Yarpole is one of several Herefordshire parishes whose bell tower stands separate from the church.
The Grade 1 listed tower is one of a number of partly or largely timber-framed bell towers in Herefordshire.
It has a stone base, truncated pyramidal section above, and a weather-boarded belfry on top.
The impressive spire used to be higher, but it was reduced in 1790 and a weathercock was installed.
The tower is built of four massive corner posts, each a single timber 25 - 30 inches square at the base and nearly 40 feet high.
Dendrochronology revealed that they were over 200 years old when they were felled.
Results of the study, which was launched with the help of English Heritage, were 'very exciting' said Yarpole's vicar, the Rev Elaine Goddard.
The frame supported by the four corner posts is braced by multiple scissor braces.
The tower seems to have been built for a single bell and was subsequently raised by 7 feet (2.1 metres) to accommodate the present 3 bells.
Around 1322 the Saxon church on this site was demolished to make way for the current building, and the Saxon stones were used to create the stone skirting wall which makes up the lowest section of the tower.
The wooden door is original, made up of six massive lanks braced diagonally on the inside.
The thick walls, iron bars of the windows, and reinforced door suggest that the tower may have been used as the parish armoury.
Within the tower is a trestle bier, probably dating to the late 18th century.
Saint Leonard’s Church itself was built in the early 14th century.
The interior of the church is quite plain, but the nave has an impressive crown post roof with scissor braces and the choir is a good mid-Victorian ensemble.
Today, the building which is run on behalf of the parish by a management group is used both for worship and for a variety of secular uses, including music, drama, seminars, exhibitions and private parties.
If you’d like to visit this church, the address is: Green Lane, Yarpole, Herefordshire, England, HR6 0EQ.
The beautiful village in Herefordshire is about 4.5 miles north-west of Leominster.
Yarpole also features a lovely pub (The Bell) and parish hall. It’s a nice place to explore if you’re ever in the area!
Thank you to Dean Morris for giving us permission to use these lovely photos!
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