Grimston

Yesterday we had a rest day. I did some washing (the first wet morning since I arrived!) and hung it out in the little garden that comes with the cottage. Late in the afternoon we walked through the village     to the church, which proved very interesting.

St Botolph's has a solid 15th century stone tower. The current tree-lined entrance is through the Northern aisle.

The South and North aisles were added in the 12th Century.

The North door has an inset stoop that no longer holds holy water.

The thing most striking thing  about this church were the carved figures on the pew ends. They varied from Tudor (including a figure in stocks, presumed to be a liar because of his extended tongue wrapping over his shoulder)

to later additions

including a mermaid.

There is a carved memorial lectern

cleric's seat

and lovely Tudor roses on the screening. 

It had not been my intention to be preoccupied with churches while in Norfolk. There are, however, so many of them that are such a record of community life, historical narrative, craft and architectural style that it has proved a convenient lens through which to view the county. We visited Grimston Church simply because it is within walking distance of our holiday let - and it proved to be both beautiful and interesting.

Tomorrow's post will be about Our Lady of Walsingham - within the Anglican community, about as far as you get from the Sydney Diocese. After that, I promise a break from churches!