St Mary

St Mary's is a historic 'wool church' at the heart of the Norfolk village of Worstead, which gave its name to the high quality worsted yarn and tweed.

The church was founded in the 14th century, and then further developed, from the profits of Worstead's famous medieval wool and cloth trade. After the Black Death devastation, the church was rebuilt in the late 14th and 15th centuries in the perpendicular gothic style we mainly see today. Changes included the addition of the hammer beam roof, a fan-vaulted screen with painted figures, corbels decorated with the coats of arms of church patrons and a bell ringing gallery.

Later additions are the beautiful late 15th century stepped font, and the early 16th century chancel screen, painted with 16 figures including, unusually, St William of Norwich and St Wilgefortis. Later on in the 18th century, wooden box pews were added. St Mary's receives many visitors, both local and from all around the world. They come to see the inspiring size and light of this wonderful building, admire its superb screens and carvings, or simply find some peace!

For more private prayer there is a side chapel on the north side. Dogs are most welcome in the church, including at our services. Worstead Train Station (on the Bittern Line between Norwich and Sheringham) is a 15 minute walk from the church. A footpath from the recreation ground beside the church leads to Station Road. We can't offer toilets or regular refreshments yet, as fundraising is only just beginning for a kitchen and WCs. But the White Lady pub is very close by, in Front Street, just off the Church Plain!