This beautiful rural church, set amongst arable fields, has been part of Norfolk Wildlife Trust’s Churchyard Conservation Scheme for over 15 years. The church is carefully managed to include two conservation areas which are allowed to grow and flower into a beautiful wildflower meadow, comprising of primroses, pignut, oxeye daisy and meadow buttercups.
The oldest part of the church is the round west tower built in the 12
th century, whereas the remainder of the building is largely early 14
th century. Further work to the nave roof was undertaken in 15
th century and other restorations were made in the 19
th and 20
th century. A recent extension provides a kitchen and toilet to welcome the many visitors to this Grade I listed church.
The church is famous for its wall painting which depicts scenes from the life of St. Christopher and dates back to 15
th century. The painting had been painted over but was revealed and partially restored in 1937. The painted font is octagonal with eight panels around the bowl and another eight around the pedestal base depicting various saints. The steps in the nave would have led to the top of the rood screen which may have been removed during the Reformation. Also look out for the poppy-head end decorations on some of the pews.
Habitats: Unimproved grassland and hedgerow.
When to visit – This churchyard is at its best in May and June when the two conservation areas are in full bloom.
Associated Group - Friends of Hemblington Church
Get involved? You can help the church with the management of its churchyard conservation areas by helping to rake the areas in late summer. To find out more email:
[email protected]
Submit a wildlife sighting - Your wildlife records are important to us and we would love to know what wildlife you see when visiting this churchyard.To submit a wildlife record
click here.
Website -
http://www.hemblingtonchurch.org.uk