Church of St Andrew Little Massingham - village life and work through the ages
St Andrew’s Church, Church Lane, Little Massingham, Norfolk, PE32 2JT
Parts of St. Andrew’s Church date back to the 14th century with possible earlier origins. Following the theft of its lead roof - the last taking place in 2017 - a temporary felt roof was put in place, but exposure and multiple issues have left the structure vulnerable to further damage. Ongoing fundraising continues for the building, which is on the at risk register.
Over many hundreds of years, the village of Little Massingham has kept the church at its heart. Standing throughout the centuries, it has witnessed the many baptisms, marriages and funerals of its congregation. In the 1800s, the village was home to the fledgling Norfolk County School until it moved to North Elmham. In the 20th century, a small private school was in operation at the Rectory. The village boasted a railway station and goods yard, which also served Harpley and Great Massingham. It had its own pub a stone’s throw from the station. During the early part of WWII, land from the village and its neighbour, Great Massingham, was incorporated to make an RAF airfield. The Officers' Mess, Sergeants Mess and a WAAF site were all located in Little Massingham.
All these have now gone; only the church remains. Throughout millennia, farming has been the mainstay of village working life, but now the parish has entered a new era with various businesses diversifying to offer accommodation to holiday makers.
We look forward to welcoming visitors to the church and see the history we have uncovered.
Timings
- Saturday 12 September:
- 1000-1600
Location & directions
St Andrew’s Church, Church Lane, Little Massingham, Norfolk, PE32 2JT
- Directions:
- Little Massingham church is located between the villages of Great Massingham and Harpley.
Booking information
- Pre-booking requirement:
- Pre-booking not required
Accessibility details
There are a few steps up to the church but we do have a ramp for wheelchairs. Most of the church is accessible to all.
Additional information
It is hoped we will shortly be able to restore the roof, which will be an exciting project. We also plan to incorporate an ecology programme as the area is surrounded by wildlife and the church is home to four species of bats.
