St Faith's Church, Little Witchingham

Fantastic little find ....was closed but a fascinating church

A hidden gem, well worth seeking out. Down a narrow lane, it's easy to miss this church, which is in the care of the Churches Conservation Trust. This is a modest flint building, with a square tower, hidden behind trees set in an unkempt churchyard. Brave the narrow dirt path, open the door and prepare for something special. As soon as you step inside, you see the remains of one of the most complete schemes of medieval wall paintings in the country. Otherwise, the church is quite simple. There is no stained glass, just a simple wooden cross on the altar, a bare, tiled floor. The lectern bears an almost polished away inscription to Reverend William Howard, vicar here for 50 years. The font is Victorian, with just the plinth of the older medieval font remaining near the entrance. If you need to sit awhile, there are a couple of wooden benches. There's lots of information about the church on the table just inside the door. Outside, don't miss the crucifixion carving on the south wall. Whilst the churchyard is very overgrown in summer, many gravestones barely visible, this is a haven for wildlife. I would suggest that this church is not very accessible to anyone unable to walk up to the door. There is no dedicated parking, perhaps you will find space on the wide verge opposite the cottages just along the lane. There are no facilities. You can truly enjoy the peace and quiet.

During a beautiful frosty walk on Saturday stopped at St Faiths Church, Little Witchingham to view the amazing medieval paintings inside. They are absolutely incredible to see and the atmosphere in the Church is so peaceful. It is in the middle of nowhere and is completely empty of pews or other church furniture. At one time, like a lot of Churches, it would have been surrounded by a village but many years ago it would have been abandoned for many reasons such as plague or lack of employment or even land reclaimed by a rich land owner!The Church is now redundant but is protected by the Churches Conservation Trust and is open for viewing daily from 10am to 4pm (don't forget to leave a donation.) A perfect place for reflecting and gathering your thoughts.There are lots of walks in the area to avoid driving there. My walk started from Porter's Lane car park in Lenwade and followed the Marriott's Way coming off just after the first road bridge and walking the country lane and tracks towards Little Witchingham.A fabulous day during this frantic time of Christmas preparation!

Very nice people. They do have a rather nice bath

Beautiful building. Loved it that I could have a play with the little organ!

Stunning in its medieval simplicity, inside little church is laden with wall paintings; vines laden with grapes spiral over arches and over the wall, edged with deep red, scenes from the Bible - some ghostly, others brilliant.It's located down narrow lanes and parking near on a verge is challenging, but it is certainly worth the trip.At the time I visit the redundant church was listed as being open daily.