Amazing churches are important all year round

Church of the Week

Houghton on the Hill, Norfolk

Houghton on the Hill St Mary Church in Norfolk has stood since the 11th century. It is a Grade I Listed building that has served generations of villagers. But by the 20th century, the village population began to shrink and in 1937 St Mary’s Church was abandoned. During the 1990s, local resident Bob Davey found the church covered in ivy and, with a team of volunteers, they began restoring it. During this time, they discovered rare 11th century wall paintings inside. It didn’t take long for excitement to spread. The doors were opened again, and visitors encouraged to come. At this year’s National Church Awards, St Mary’s was a finalist in the ‘Open for Visitors’ category thanks to the brilliant welcome it gives to visitors near and far.