The Tower
There are 135 steps in total to reach the viewing balcony. Along the way you get to ring bells and see some interesting features, like the mechanism of one of the largest caged clocks in Europe. You also get to climb through a belfry, where the 6 tonnes of bells ring out, on your way to a spectacular view of Cork City. Sounds good? Have a read of the info below before your visit to make the most of your time in the Tower.
RING THE BELLS ON THE FIRST FLOOR!
Have you ever wanted to play Church bells? Well now you can! St Anne's Church is one of the only Churches in the world that let you ring their bells unaccompanied.
The Shandon bells have had poems and songs written about them and are the soundtrack of the city. They are fixed bells so when you pull the rope the clapper hits the bell-the bell doesn't move so no Quasimodo moves required! This is called an Ellacombe Chiming method. (lInk)
There are 8 ropes for the 8 bells and you choose from an eclectic mix of songs, follow the numbers and pull out the ropes. But don't forget that you can be heard all across the city. So no pressure!
On the first floor you can also see the statues of Bob+Joan, the old water powered bellows and the clock weights.
Have you ever wanted to play Church bells? Well now you can! St Anne's Church is one of the only Churches in the world that let you ring their bells unaccompanied.
The Shandon bells have had poems and songs written about them and are the soundtrack of the city. They are fixed bells so when you pull the rope the clapper hits the bell-the bell doesn't move so no Quasimodo moves required! This is called an Ellacombe Chiming method. (lInk)
There are 8 ropes for the 8 bells and you choose from an eclectic mix of songs, follow the numbers and pull out the ropes. But don't forget that you can be heard all across the city. So no pressure!
On the first floor you can also see the statues of Bob+Joan, the old water powered bellows and the clock weights.
THE CLIMB TO THE VIEW
There are other great things to discover as you climb to the balcony.
On the 2nd floor you can see the pendulum of the clock, the heartbeat of the building, and information about the urns
On the 3rd floor you will see the mechanism of the clock, one of the largest caged clocks in Europe. Or as local call it, 'the four faced liar!
On the 2nd floor you can see the pendulum of the clock, the heartbeat of the building, and information about the urns
On the 3rd floor you will see the mechanism of the clock, one of the largest caged clocks in Europe. Or as local call it, 'the four faced liar!
THE BELFRY!
After the 3rd floor, you will be climbing through the belfry. Yes, an actual belfry where the 6 tonnes of bells ring out. This is our most difficult part of the climb as the tower narrows to less than half a metre and you there are some wooden steps to climb. It's also one way so you might have to crouch under a big bell to make way for other visitors. But don't worry, we give you ear defenders to wear so your ears are protected from the bells.
THE VIEW
When you see the view you'll know it was worth the climb! A nearly 360 degree view of the city awaits. We are the third tallest building in the city and the only one continuously accessible to the public. You will be able to see how the city grew and developed and how it is continuously changing. Cork is know as a city of steeps and steeples and you will see why as you notice all the spires. Stand and take in the view while listening to the bells ring out over the city.
IMPORTANT HEALTH AND SAFETY INFO BEFORE YOUR CLIMB
- Please Note: Opening hours and access to tower may change depending on weather conditions and if the church is in use for a religious service. Keep and eye on our social media posts before you visit.
- Please note-No Toilet Facilities on site
- There are 132 steps and the tower narrows to half a meter near the belfry. The climb will not be suitable for visitors who have mobility, heart or shortness of breath on exertion (SOBOE) issues.
- No babies, even in carriers, or children under the age of 2 are allowed past the first floor.
- Visitors with crutches, walking sticks, inappropriate footwear and large backpacks will not be allowed to climb.
- No food or drinks allowed in the Church and Tower.
- We ask visitors to remember St Anne's is an active Church and to respect that, so no use of mobile phones in the Church itself.
- Photography is permitted (without flash) within the church except during services.
- Bells can be played at any time during opening hours. But we ask you respect the residents of the area and not play excessively or really badly!
- This is a self guided tour. Information leaflets are available in several languages.