NorfolkBRISLEYStBartholomew(marycardenPERMISSIONBYEMAIL)2 MaryCarden

St Bartholomew

St Bart's is a grade I medieval church with 13th century wall paintings, 15th century box pewsand a crypt with tales of being used as a prison; it's the birthplace of Taverner and Jane Austin's cousin was Rector.

Brisley, Norfolk

Opening times

It is open every day of the year 10am to 4.30pm.
Sunday services twice a month.

Address

Church Street
Brisley
Norfolk
NR20 5AA

The first Rector was appointed in 1304 but his appointment was to the earlier Saxon church which stood where the present church stands today; the crypt is believed to have been below the original Saxon church. 

It is one of the rare Norfolk churches in which many original furnishings and artifacts remain almost untouched. The church contains good examples of 13th and 14th century wall paintings, including the haunting face of St Bartholomew, the stooped body of St Christopher (dated c1360) and the unusual survival of St Andrew carrying his cross (dated c1360) which is on the south wall. Another slightly later painting of St Christopher is at the side of the north door. 

St Bartholomew's is very fortunate in having two exquisite piscinas, including a triple sedilia cum piscina, 14th century font, and 15th century benches and box pews. The east window depicts the crucification and a glorious west window with fragments of medieval glass. 

The church has a silver ecology award. The church is part of roof breakers - it has disabled access and facilities.

  • Captivating architecture

  • Enchanting atmosphere

  • Fascinating churchyard

  • Glorious furnishings

  • Magnificent memorials

  • National heritage here

  • Social heritage stories

  • Spectacular stained glass

  • Wildlife haven

  • Accessible toilets nearby

  • Bus stop within 100m

  • Car park at church

  • Church shop or souvenirs

  • Dog friendly

  • Level access to the main areas

  • On street parking at church

  • Parking within 250m

  • Ramp or level access available on request

  • Space to secure your bike

  • Walkers & cyclists welcome

  • Wifi

  • A service twice a month.

  • Lending library and food bank in church.

  • Very active Friends group with lots of activities organised including music evenings, heritage talks and ecology days.

  • Church of England

Contact information

Other nearby churches

St Mary the Virgin

Whissonsett, Norfolk

14th and 15th century church restored in the 1870s with a magnificent organ and Saxon cross.

St Martin

South Raynham, Norfolk

St Martin's has wonderful stained glass and its 13th century altar which is in use.