Help secure the future of Ranworth Tower at St Helen's Church
For more than 900 years, St Helen's Church has stood at the heart of Ranworth, watching over the village, welcoming visitors, and serving as a constant presence through generations of change.
Its iconic tower is one of the most recognisable features of the Norfolk Broads, offering breathtaking views and creating lasting memories for countless residents and visitors. Today, this much-loved landmark needs our help.
Why is the tower closed?
Many people have been disappointed to find that St Helen's Tower is currently closed. Following our routine building inspection, the belfry access platform and ladders were found to be showing significant wear and tear. We were strongly advised that tower access must be closed, and remedial works to improve safety must be completed before anyone can go up the tower. Because visitor safety is paramount, we closed the tower while specialist contractors assess the full extent of the repairs needed. The safety of our visitors must always come first.
What repairs are needed?
As the current custodians of this remarkable Grade I listed building, we have a responsibility to care for it and ensure it remains safe and accessible for future generations. The recent inspection revealed that substantial repairs are now needed, requiring specialist conservation work and an investment expected to exceed £90,000.
To begin the first phase of these essential repairs and make the tower safe once again, we urgently need to raise at least £50,000.
Why this matters
This is about more than repairing a tower. It is about protecting a cherished landmark that has watched over Ranworth for centuries and preserving a place that means so much to residents, visitors, and future generations alike. Without this work, the future of tower access remains uncertain.
How you can help
We cannot achieve this alone. We are asking everyone who values St Helen's, whether you are a regular worshipper, an occasional visitor, a lover of Norfolk's heritage, or someone who simply treasures seeing the tower across the landscape, to consider making a donation. Every contribution, however large or small, will make a difference.
Find out more
Anyone with questions about the project is welcome to speak with Revd Cheryl Ramballi or members of the Ranworth PCC at St Helen's Tea Rooms on Tuesday mornings from 11am to 1pm, or on Sundays between 10.45am and 11.30am.
Email: [email protected]
Call: 07413 979503
How to donate
Online
www.dofn.org/ranworthtower
Bank transfer
Account Name: Ranworth PCC
Sort Code: 09-01-53
Account Number: 05243284
Reference: Tower Fabric Fund
By cheque
Please make cheques payable to Ranworth PCC and post them to:
The Church Office
St Helen's Church
Woodbastwick Road
Ranworth
NR13 6HT
Please support the St Helen’s Church and Tower Fabric Appeal. Every donation brings us one step closer to safeguarding this treasured landmark, completing essential repairs, and reopening the tower by summer 2027. Together, we can ensure that St Helen’s continues to stand proudly over Ranworth for generations to come, allowing future visitors to climb the steps, enjoy the remarkable views, and experience the same sense of wonder that has inspired people for centuries. Your support today will help secure the future of this special place for the next 900 years.