What is ULSCR (University of London Society of Change Ringers)?

ULSCR is the University of London Society of Change Ringers, a student bell-ringing society founded in 1945 and based in London. It is open to students, staff, and alumni from any university within London, and no prior ringing experience is required — complete beginners and experienced ringers are both welcome. If you want to try church bell ringing in London or reconnect with it as a student, this is the group to contact.

What the name means

• University of London — the society draws its members from universities across London, not a single institution.
• Society of Change Ringers — "change ringing" is the English style of church bell ringing in which bells are rung in changing mathematical sequences rather than melodies.
• ULSCR is simply the acronym, and it is also the society's web domain (ulscr.org.uk).

Who can join

The society describes itself as made up of students, staff, and alumni from any university within London. The key condition stated on the site is that experience level does not matter:

• Never touched a bell rope before — welcome.
• Been ringing for years — also welcome.

If you are interested in joining, the site asks you to email [email protected] in advance "so we are ready for your arrival."

Weekly practices

This is the regular weekly practice, so it is the natural first point of contact for a newcomer.

Social side

Ringing is only part of what the society does. Events run through the year and include:

• A fresher's tour
• A pancake party
• A treasure hunt
• Pub trips
• A formal annual dinner in November, attended by both past and present members

A long-running society

ULSCR was formed in 1945 and describes itself as "the home of London student bell ringing since 1945." The site notes the society was celebrating its 80th birthday, and its news section lists annual dinners and AGMs going back years — including a 79th Anniversary Dinner, an 80th Anniversary Dinner, and an 81st Annual Dinner listed for 28 November 2026. That continuity is a useful signal if you are looking for a society with an established membership and alumni network rather than a short-lived club.

How to get involved

1. Decide whether you fit the membership description — student, staff, or alumnus of a London university.
2. Email [email protected] to say you are coming, as the site requests.
3. Turn up to a Thursday practice during term time at St Olave's, Hart Street, EC3R 7NA (Tower Hill station).
4. If you want updates first, sign up to the society's mailing list via the website.

One practical caveat: practices run during term time, so check term dates before travelling. The site also provides a webmaster contact for any issues with the website itself.