St Margaret’s, Hardley by Richard Woodham

St Margaret’s, Hardley

Open daily dawn to dusk.
Lower Hardley Road, Hardley, Norwich, NR14 6BU
Wheelchair accessible
Shop(s) or amenities nearby
Parking nearby
Footpath, trail or cycle route
Wall painting
Grade I

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St Margaret’s, Hardley by Richard Woodham

Hardley Church stands on high ground a mile north of the River Chet giving a wonderful view eastwards over the river, fields and marshes and is one of the churches visible when boating. St. Margaret's remote position helped to protect it from earlier over-restoration, and it remains a largely unspoilt parish church where villagers have worshipped since Norman times. The round tower dates to the 11th century, the chancel dates to the 15th century and the vestry was added by the Victorians. The size of the church is evidence that the village had a much more affluent past, no doubt due to the trade from the nearby river. How big a part the river played in local life is shown by the pictures of boats scratched into the pews by children of long ago. The church is frequently visited by hikers and holidaymakers. Inside there is a 15th century St Christopher wall painting; notice the fish swimming around his legs. There is a smaller St Catherine above the south doorway and the remains of consecration crosses. The ornate font features angels, lions and the symbols of the Evangelists. 

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