I found this arrangement to access the tower/belfry in a local church. The use of a ‘modern’ wooden ladder is not so unusual, but I’ve not seen a ladder like the dark wooden one here (I presume the rail/rung ladder replaces it, for health and safety reasons). I’ve had a wander round the web to find whether there is a specific name for this type of ladder, but with no luck, does anyone have an idea?
In my local area, it’s pretty hit and miss whether a church is open or not (too many thieves/vandals around), but even those that are open have restrictions to prevent people getting into the belfry. Obviously, this is to ensure safety, but I suspect there is also a case for keeping them closed to prevent disturbance to any bats that might be roosting/hibernating.
—Stephen—