St Peter and St Paul’s, East Harling

Open daily 10am - 4pm.
Toilets nearby
Wheelchair accessible
Shop(s) or amenities nearby
Parking nearby
Footpath, trail or cycle route
Important stained glass
Rood screen
Grade I

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Commanding a prominent position next to the River Thet, St Peter & St Paul's Church is truly one of the finest in Norfolk. The church is brimming with interest. Lovers of architecture, craftsmanship, monuments and medieval glass will find much to delight and fascinate them. The lower stages of the tower date to the 14th century. Gaze up at the 15th century battlements and you will notice symbols of the Harling family and figures between the pinnacles. A small spire rises from flying buttresses which, it is said, provided the inspiration for the spire of St Peter Mancroft in Norwich. The church was largely rebuilt in the early 15th century. Eighteen clerestory windows pierce the space above their larger nave counterparts. In 1840 the porch was rebuilt. Step through the 14th century doorway into a bright, lofty space encased by a grand hammer-beam roof. More symbols of the Harling family adorn the the south aisle spandrels in the form of bulls, unicorns and frails (a rush basket used by workmen). The south aisle chapel is enclosed by a 15th century screen to the west and an earlier parclose screen to the north. Marvel at the tomb of Sir Robert Harling and his wife. The brass states 'His fame flourished well known amongst many of its natives of France - at length mangled by force of arms he died at Paris in 1435.' The other tomb is that of Sir Thomas Lovell (d. 1604) and his wife. Try to work out what is being held up at the feet of Mrs Lovell - a Saracen's scalp. Anne Harling and her first husband lie under the lavish 15th century tomb in the north wall of the chancel. The effigies have been lost but the elaborate stonework has survived. Anne and her first two husbands were responsible for the rebuilding of the church, including the reglazing. The east window is a vast kaleidoscope of medieval glass. It was brought back to the church in 1736 having been hidden away in the manor house before the Civil War and was once again removed temporarily during the Second World War. Biblical scenes abound. Anne's first two husbands are depicted in the lower corners. Bring your binoculars! enes depicted.

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