St Mary the Virgin's Church, Blundeston facts for kids

Quick facts for kids St Mary the Virgin's Church, Blundeston
OS grid reference	TM5134597234
Location	Church Road, Blundeston, Suffolk NR32 5AX
Country	England
Denomination	Anglican
Churchmanship	Central Anglican
History
Status	Parish church
Architecture
Functional status	Active
Heritage designation	Grade I
Designated	27 November 1954
Architectural type	Church
Administration
Parish	Blundeston with Flixton
Deanery	Lothingland
Archdeaconry	Norfolk
Diocese	Diocese of Norwich
Province	Canterbury

St Mary the Virgin Church is a historic church in the village of Blundeston, close to Lowestoft. It is an active Anglican parish church, meaning it serves the local community. The church is part of the wider Diocese of Norwich within the Church of England.

This special building was officially recognized as a Grade I Listed building on November 27, 1954. This means it is considered a very important historical building.

A Look at History

The original parts of St Mary the Virgin Church date back to the Anglo-Saxon period. This was a long time ago, even before the Norman Conquest in 1066!

How the Church Grew Over Time

The church tower has parts that are from the 11th century. You can still see pieces of the old bell tower from that time. Other parts of the tower were added later, between the 15th and 16th centuries. The very top of the tower was built using red bricks.

The main part of the church, called the nave, was first built in the 12th century. It was then rebuilt in the 14th century. The windows you see in the nave were made between the 13th and 15th centuries.

Inside the Church

The chancel, which is the area near the altar, has special brass writings from the 17th century. Above the south door, you can see the coat of arms of King Charles II, dated 1673. This shows how old and important the church is.

See also

• Grade I listed buildings in Suffolk