Saint Marys Church Houghton on the Hill Home Page

You can find the Church of St Mary on top of the hill in Houghton, on the outskirts of North Pickenham near Swaffham. Of the small hamlet once described as Houghton Town, only the church and Houghton Farm remain intact. The last two surviving cottages were demolished in 1994, the remainder of the village is visible only as bumps in the field just to the north of the church.

Built over the remains of a Roman building, the church has stood here for at least 1,000 years. Evidence of a Roman settlement is suggested by the use of Roman bricks in the structure, nearby remains of a villa and its close proximity to Peddars Way.

Abandoned as a church in the second quarter of the 20th century it was rarely used after the 1930's with the last service being held in 1944 (until recently).

On the walls of the nave are many ancient paintings with an image of the Holy Trinity on the east gable.

Recently the font was discovered in a rectory garden, planted up with bulbs, whilst the holy water stoup from the nave was found being used as a bird bath in another local garden.

The church has been featured by TV, radio and the press many times and was visited by Princess Margaret and Prince Charles who enthusiastically climbed the tower. Occasional Christian services are well attended.

The rescue and ongoing preservation of this grade 1 listed building was instigated by Mr Bob Davey of North Pickenham and it is obviously a time-consuming labour of love. The project is now overseen by a steering committee.

Visit St Mary's

The church is open daily from 2pm to 4pm.
A full guided tour takes up to 2 hours.

To visit this lovingly restored part of our heritage, set in a quiet, idyllic location on Peddars Way, call Bob on 01760 440470.

Groups are welcome please book first, Bob is happy to guide you around the church and share his extensive knowledge of its history.

Please note: There are no toilet facilities at Saint Mary’s at this present time, due to the location and lack of water supply.
However “The Friends of Saint Mary’s” are currently working on this.

Groups of visitors might like to consider a refreshment break at Houghton Barns, just a short walk from the church. The 18th Century barns, with their neighbouring farmhouse and cottage, are set in a delightfully remote and peaceful corner of Breckland, and offer superb and comfortable facilities. Local produce is used for delicious homemade lunches, afternoon teas and morning coffee breaks available for groups of 10 or more.
To book Houghton Barn facilities contact Lucinda Mackworth-Young 07850 912006
or e-mail houghtonbarns@btinternet.com

Alternatively you can contact Wayland Church Tours who will be happy to organise the whole experience for you, church tour with food and accommodation, if required.