Knapton: SS. Peter & Paul

Getting here

This is an amazing and beautiful building, and the roof is just stunning! The church also boasts a brilliant little "Positive" organ. Knapton is part of the Trunch group of parishes. The group comprises Mundesley, Gimingham, Knapton, Paston, Trunch with Bradfield & Swafield. Try to visit us all! The beauty and history of these churches is amazing. Remember too that there has been worship and prayer and praise in these building for hundreds of years. You are welcome! Come to a service, or just to admire the dedication and skill of the workmanship.   The church of SS. Peter & Paul is mainly 14th century although there is evidence of an earlier church which no doubt housed the impressive 13th century font.
The plain exterior gives no clue to the treasure of mediaeval carving which lies within. Knapton has one of the finest and most handsome of double hammer beam roofs in the country constructed in 1503. We do not know why this magnificent roof should have been added to such a plain church. The fine workmanship and superb carving is probably the work of London carpenters and may have been transported along the coast to nearby Mundesley. This would give some credence to local tradition which claims that the roof was built from a shipwreck at Mundesley.
The cemetery at Knapton contains the gravestone of Commander Jefferson Miles, RN, inscribed with the legend "the vindicator of Nelson." Commander Miles strenuously refuted claims made in Parliament in 1799 that Nelson had mistreated Republican prisoners while at Naples.

There are fascinating mediaeval gravescovers in the chancel (don't fall over them!) that pre-date the current church, the church has a fine peal of bells and, as you sit and admire, drink in the ambience, and the knowledge at what has gone on in this building over the centuries. You are just the latest in a line stretching back centuries: just imagine all the prayers and supplication, the hopes, and fears, the joys and sadness that have been expressed here, along the celebrations, humility and rapture.

And be silent.

Also, for our younger visitors, you will find a pad at the back of the church for them to partake in a Children's Quiz to test their observational and keen minds. Good luck!

Pond Lane
Knapton
North Walsham
NR28 0SB

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