Walsingham Page

LET'S LOOK AT WALSINGHAM IN NORTH NORFOLK .

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The Village

A distinctive and ancient village, famed as a centre of pilgrimage since 1061. Little Walsingham possess a wealth of interest for the visitor and has probably the finest collection of medieval and later buildings of any village of a comparable size. Much of its medieval history dates back to pre-reformation times when it was internationally famous as a place of pilgrimage. In this Century its significance as a place of pilgrimage has resumed, and for both Anglicans and Roman Catholics it is the National Shrine of Our Lady. Several informative historical and guide books are available in the local shops and at the Tourist Information Centre.

Walsingham is noted for its impressive timber-framed buildings and fine Georgian facades. The village, a thriving community, welcomes visitors to its pubs, restaurants and tea rooms. There is a wide selection of overnight accommodation. A range of shops provide everything from gifts to groceries. Ample car and coach parking

The Pumphouse.

A central feature at the north end of the High Street, a unique Gothic style Pumphouse in brick and limestone.

Walsingham Abbey Grounds

The Grounds contain the ruins of the original Priory, founded c.1153 by Augustinian Canons, including he magnificent East Window, the Refectory, Crypt and Holy Wells. Discover the site of the original Holy House excavated in 1961 and the legend of the Knights Gate in the northern wall.

Over the Packhorse Bridge the tranquil river and woodland walks lead into unspoilt natural woods and parkland, famous for its spectacular snowdrops.

Open throughout the year entrance in summer months through the Shirehall Museum and Tourist Information Centre (combined and family tickets available) and out of season through the Estate Office during usual office hours.

The Shirehall (Courthouse) Museum and Tourist Information Centre

Originally part of the outer precinct of the Priory, the quarter sessions were established here in the mid-eighteenth century. The well preserved Georgian Country Courthouse was closed in 1970 and is now a 'hands-on' museum (Put yourself in the dock or be the judge - the Lock Up is only occupied!).

The Museum has a comprehensive display on Walsingham as a place of pilgrimage since 1061, as well as local artifacts and photographs. The Tourist Information Centre includes a well stocked shop. Opening times as the Tourist Information Centre.

Tourist Information Centre, Common Place, Walsingham: 01328 820510

The Anglican Shrine of Our Lady of Walsingham

Built in 1931 and set in attractive, peaceful gardens, the Shrine is a famous place of Christian pilgrimage. The replica of the Holy House of Nazareth, which houses the Image of Our lady of Walsingham, welcomes thousands of pilgrims each year. The Shrine and Gardens are open daily to visitors.

The Slipper Chapel

The 14th century Slipper Chapel at Houghton St. Giles (1 mile south of Walsingham) is the Roman Catholic National Shrine of Our Lady. Pilgrimage was re-established in 1897. It is the centre of pilgrimage for many thousands throughout the year. Telephone Pilgrim Bureau: 01328 820217

The Methodist Chapel

One of the oldest in Norfolk, built in 1793/4 still with original fittings. The only Georgian Methodist Chapel still in use in East Anglia.

The Chapel of St Seraphim

A Russian Orthodox Chapel established in the Old Railway Station in 1967

CHURCH OF TRANSFIGURATION (RUSSIAN ORTHODOX), THE GREEN, GREAT WALSINGHAM:

A former methodist chapel, which has been converted into a place of worship by the local Russian Orthodox community.

WALSINGHAM BRIDEWELL:

A rare survival, now being restored. Built in 1787 to plans by John Howard (prison reformer). A large extension built in 1828 housed a treadmill, where corn was ground. Open to public occasionally, enquiries at Tourist Information Centre. Entrance from Cokers Hill.

ST PETER'S CHURCH, GREAT WALSINGHAM:

Decorated style; interesting interior, is well worth a visit.

THE FRIARY.

The most complete remains of any Franciscan Friary in Britain - Ruins can be viewed from the Houghton Road and also the lane running along the back of the Friary; it is privately owned and not generally open to the public.

ST MARY'S CHURCH:

Has been sympathetically restored after a disastrous fire in 1961.

AMENITIES:

Bed and Board accommodation available for visitors at the Pilgrim Bureau, and the Anglican Shrine, B&B also available in many establishments in the village, both licensed premises and smaller family-run houses. Enquiries at the Tourist Information Centre.

TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRE:

Tourist Information Centre in Shirehall Museum, Common Place, Walsingham. Tel: Walsingham 01328 820510. Open from Easter (Maundy Thursday) to end of September and weekends in October. Mon., to Sat., 10am - 5pm (closed Mon., 1 pm - 2pm) Sun., 2pm - 5pm. Tel: 01328 820510

Updated 21Apr99