BBC Radio 4

BBC Radio 4 is a radio channel that started transmitting on the 30th September 1967. It replaced BBC Home Service.

Radio 4

Intelligent speech, the most insightful journalism, the wittiest comedy, the most fascinating features and the most compelling drama and readings anywhere in UK radio.

BBC Radio 4 LW

Noise: A Human History: The Bells

The Bells

Noise: A Human History

BBC Radio 4 Extra - Noise: A Human History, The Bells

Prof David Hendy explores how the sound of the bell carries religion out into the world.

David Hendy visits one of the oldest church bells in the UK, and explores how the sound of the bell carries religion out into the world.

The peal of the church bell was one of the most dominant features in the medieval soundscape. Every time it rang out, religion's hold over the secular world was signalled loud and clear. 

Professor David Hendy of the University of Sussex visits one of the oldest church bells in the UK and argues the sound's power lay in ancient, pagan associations.

30-part series made in collaboration with the British Library Sound Archive.

Producer: Matt Thompson.
A Rockethouse production for BBC Radio 4 first broadcast in 2013.

BBC Radio 4 Extra

Your digital radio entertainment station showcasing the best in comedy and drama

Your digital radio entertainment station showcasing the best in comedy and drama. With recent favourites from BBC Radio 4.

Documentaries

Factual: History

Prof David Hendy on the role of sound and listening in 100,000 years of human history.

Prof David Hendy presents a 30-part series exploring the role of sound, and listening, in the past 100,000 years of human history.

Accessibility links

Programme Index

Noise: A Human History

The Bells

Genres

Series

BBC Radio 4 LW

About BBC Radio 4