St Mary the Virgin

Peeling away layers of time to discover what lay hidden for hundreds of years.

Lakenheath, Suffolk

Opening times

Open daily within reasonable daylight hours.

You can find us a short drive off the A11 with street parking available outside the church, or there is a bus stop near to the church on routes 200 & 201 (Thetford to Brandon to Lakenheath to Mildenhall) 955 & 956 (Lakenheath to Mildenhall to Bury St Edmunds).

Address

High Street
Lakenheath
Suffolk
IP27 9DS

Sitting on the edge of the Fenland and the Breckland, a wealth of history and beauty awaits you. Most churches have layers of history to unravel, but it is even more true here with layer upon layer of stunning medieval wall painting schemes unveiled and conserved over recent years. These superb survivals include St Edmund King of the East Angles looking across at you as you enter the church, and if you look closely at the columns you may discover the ghostly outlines of angels whilst carved roof angels look down on you from above.

For those looking to uncover our Norman heritage, you will not be disappointed with the survival of the chancel arch, with further features surviving in the chancel. How many different animals and fantastical creatures will you discover as you look around our Medieval pew ends?

And if you are looking for more recent history, can uncover our connection to Earl Kitchiner, Secretary of State for War at the start of the first world war? The village itself has a rich religious heritage, and in the mid 1800s there were also meetings in the town for a Wesleyan Chapel, Primitive Methodists, a Jireh Independent Chapel and Particular Baptists.

The village still represents several different denominations, and we are pleased to come together to support those who live here and visit from afar. Visitors to the area can also enjoy a visit to RSPB Lakenheath Fen, take a walk or bike ride in Thetford Forest and you are a short drive from several English Heritage sites such as Thetford Priory and Weeting Castle. If you are looking for local produce the nearby Elveden Estate has much to offer is also home to the beautiful church of St Patrick and St Andrew.

  • Social heritage stories

  • National heritage here

  • Magnificent memorials

  • Glorious furnishings

  • Famous connections

  • Enchanting atmosphere

  • Captivating architecture

  • Walkers & cyclists welcome

  • Steps to enter the church or churchyard

  • Parking within 250m

  • On street parking at church

  • Non-accessible toilets in church

  • Level access to the main areas

  • Bus stop within 100m

  • Bell Ringing practice Tuesdays at 7.30pm.

  • Follow our website link which will take you through to details of services and events held at the church.

  • Church of England

Contact information

Other nearby churches

St Mary

Mildenhall, Suffolk

The Breckland town of Mildenhall was well on the way to prosperity by the time of the Norman Conquest.