Scaffold Tour of St Thomas', Bristol
Church of St Thomas the Martyr, Bristol
A rare opportunity to get up close with this medieval Bristol landmark with a hard hat scaffold tour, led by heritage specialists.
Join us up the scaffold to see first-hand the high level roofing and masonry repairs which have been enabled that to a grant from the Heritage Stimulus Fund and the support of Enovert Community Fund. The top of the tower provides a unique vantage point out over the city of Bristol, which you don’t want to miss!
About the tour:
Each tour will take place over the multi-levelled scaffolding which covers the church tower. You will see masonry repairs to the parapets, pinnacles and other decorative stonework and be talked through the work by representative from the Churches Conservation Trust and heritage building contractors, Ellis and Co. Tours will last approximately one hour and there will be refreshments and a chance to relax inside the beautiful Georgian Interior of St Thomas’ before and afterwards.
About access:
There are 9 steep ladders to climb and hatches measuring approximately 2ft x 3ft to climb through. The top of the tower is approximately 150ft tall so this tour is not suitable for those with vertigo. We recommend that only those who are physically fit and comfortable climbing ladders and kneeling should participate. Hard hats will be provided. Please wear practical clothing and footwear and bring waterproofs in case of rain. In case of severe weather we might need to postpone tours.
About the church:
Located in Bristol's city centre, this handsome late eighteenth-century church was designed in 1789 by local architect and carver James Allen to replace a medieval church deemed unsafe for use. Allen retained the fifteenth-century west tower of the old church, intending it to be 'raised and modernised' in a Classical fashion, but the plan was never carried out and the church is an unusual - but pleasing - blend of both periods.
All ticket fees will be treated as a donation, and will go towards CCT's work at Church of St Thomas the Martyr, Bristol. Thank you for your support.