Loughborough’s first bell festival




AUTUMN/WINTER 2023 ︎︎︎ Loughborough’s first bell festival

In September the bells rang out in Loughborough’s first-ever festival, organised by Charnwood Arts to commemorate the bell as a unique symbol of Loughborough and its heritage.




In September I documented the Bell Festival for Charnwood Arts. This was the first-ever Bell Festival to take place in Loughborough, promising to return in 2024 as well. The bell was chosen by the organisers as a unique symbol of Loughborough's history and heritage, particularly due to the impact and longevity of the local Bell Foundry.

The Festival began at All Saints Parish Church with the blessing of a large willow bell. From there, a steam engine led a colourful procession through the town centre, finishing at the Carillon War Memorial. As Morris troupes danced, the clouds unleashed rain and the bandstand burst out with songs.

Words by Joshua Jones




Words by Josie Jones