Facilities and features
Accessibility
Our Building
The church remains open for private prayer daily from 11am – 3pm.
If you need access outside these hours please contact Father Rodney on 01580 754459 or Alison Jones on 01580 755705.
Music and Worship
The ringing of church bells (campanology) has been an art for centuries. From warning of war to ringing for weddings, bell ringers have been making a noise since, what seems like, the beginning of time.The church of St Laurence has eight bells in the key of E Flat, the oldest of which dates back to 1617. Originally there were five bells in the church, later augmented to six. In 1847 two treble bells were added, making a total of eight. Today, the heaviest bell weighs 23 cwt.
Our bell ringers warmly welcome you to join them. They are always happy to help beginners pick up what will turn out to be a life time enjoyment. Anyone aged 11 years and over is welcome.
Ringing times at St Laurence:
Fridays 7.30pm for bell ringing practice, access via the West door.
Sundays 9.15am for the 10am service.
If you feel that bell ringing may be for you please contact our Ringing Master via [email protected] heading your email St Laurence Bell Ringers
The church tower is affiliated to the Tonbridge District of the Kent County Association of Change Ringers where more information about the association can be found.
Further details about the bells of St Laurence may be found at The Kent County Association of Change Ringers
The Organ in Hawkhurst Church 2 Manual and pedals, with 20 speaking stops. Was a Willis in 1957, then rebuilt by Nicholson in 1983, and updated by FH Browne 1990, and Peter Wells 1995.
Our small, friendly, enthusiastic choir, made up of adults and children, sings at most Sunday services. Our repertoire ranges widely, from Tudor to modern and everything in between.We practice each Friday at St Laurence Church from 6.30 to 7.30p.m. and before the service on Sunday.
Singers of all ages are welcome: if you can read music, so much the better – but it’s not vital.
If you’re interested in singing with us, please contact our organist and choir master via [email protected] heading your email “St Laurence Choir”