NORFOLK CHURCHES
Top 10

There were over 1,000 medieval churches built in Norfolk and 659 still remain, this is the greatest concentration in the world. Not only are these beautiful internationally important buildings, but they contain hundreds of medieval works of art and craftsmanship. The simple and easily built round towers of early times gave way to the rich and spacious buildings in the prosperous Middle Ages, many noted for their beautiful rood screens, decorated roofs and bench carvings. The decline in the population of Norfolk left many churches isolated from their villages, but their towers still dominate the Norfolk landscape. Each of these wonderful buildings, offers a great place to escape our busy lives and experience peace and tranquility. Make sure you get to visit some of these magnificent medieval churches during your stay in Norfolk.

Norwich Cathedral.

The Cathedral dominates the skyline of the city. The building was started in 1096 and took nearly 200 years to complete, with stone shipped from Caen in Normandy. After the townsfolk set fire to the cathedral in the riots of 1272, the timber roofs were replaced with stone vaulting with carved and painted roof bosses. It is one of the finest Cathedrals in England.

St Helens in Ranworth.

The tower of St. Helens church dominates the skyline and has served the villagers since 1390. It is well worth tackling the ladders inside the church tower and climb to the top for the wonderful views over the landscape. The church bears the nickname the Cathedral of the Broads and it is easy to understand why when from its heights on clear days you can see five Norfolk Broads. The church also has a fine example of a medieval painted rood screen and some lovely stained glass. Next to the church is a Visitors Centre in a converted old coach house, which houses a tea room and a display of photographs of East Anglican churches.

All Saints in Burnham Thorpe.

Burnham Thorpe is the birthplace of Horatio Nelson. His father, Edmund Nelson, moved to Burnham Thorpe in 1755, after his marriage. Horatio, the 6th of their 11 children was born on 29th September 1758 in a house called the Shooting Box! Horatio went away to study and after his early years in the Navy, he returned for 5 years to Burnham Thorpe with his new wife. Nelson was given his first role as Captain after this and the rest is history. The church where his father was Rector, is well worth a visit as it is full of Nelson family memorabilia, including a cross and lectern made from wood from HMS Victory.

St Nicholas in Blakeney.

The large village church of St Nicholas has a small turret at the corner of the chancel where a light would burn as a beacon to guide ships safely into Blakeney Harbour. The church tower (100ft) is one of the highest in Norfolk and is a landmark for miles around. Inside, the church has a lovely early English chancel, built in 1220. You will also find some splendid wood carving and fine stained glass windows.

St Mary's in Happisburgh.

In a commanding position, overlooking the sea is the large village church of St Mary's. It has a very tall tower (110 feet). Inside, the church is very spacious and contains some medieval features, such as the backlight to the rood at the east end of the nave. The church also has a splendid 15th century octagonal font and a stained glass window showing an English knight.

St Nicholas in Potter Heigham.

A lovely church, tucked away in the residential part of this Broadland village. The earliest surviving feature is the round tower, which dates back to the 12th century and has a 14th century octagonal extension, one of the best preserved in the country. Inside, you will find a stunning hammerbeam roof (Gothic open timber), an almost unique 15th century brick font and a scheme of wall paintings dating back to the 14th century.

St Margaret in Cley next the sea.

The parish church of St. Margaret of Antioch, dating back to the 13th century. Dominating this end of the village, it seems at times almost too cathedral like for the small village. The church is vast and contains many interesting features including a seven sacrament font, bench ends depicting people and mythical creatures, brasses and old stained glass.

St Nicholas at Salthouse.

The church of St Nicholas at Salthouse stands between the village and high ridge and is high enough to avoid any flood water. Inside, the nave and chancel were rebuilt in the 15th century at a time of great prosperity. The church contains a fine font with lions and a painted rood screen.

St. Marys, West Somerton.

This ancient, peaceful church is one of the best in Norfolk, partly due to its location, perched on a hill overlooking the surrounding countryside and views to the coast at Winterton. People have worshipped here for over 900 years and the building contains craftsmanship from various dates and periods.

Booton St Michael, near Reepham.

Booton Church of St Michael and All Angels is a highly individual church. It was created on the shell of a medieval building in the 19th century by the rector Revd Whitwell Elwin over a period of 50 years. Its a gothic fantasy, with palace-like towers on the outside, and hosts of oak angels and stained glass on the inside. No tour of Norfolk's churches is complete without a visit to Booton!