Beachamwell

Settlement in Norfolk Breckland

England

Beachamwell

Farm track east of Caldecote Farm Credit: Kim Fyson

Beachamwell is a small village located in the county of Norfolk, in eastern England. Situated approximately 15 miles southwest of the town of Swaffham, Beachamwell is surrounded by picturesque countryside and is part of the Breckland district. The village sits on the edge of the Norfolk Brecks, an area known for its unique ecology and heathland habitats.

With a population of around 200 residents, Beachamwell is a tight-knit community that offers a peaceful and rural lifestyle. The village is characterized by its charming thatched cottages, historic buildings, and traditional English country charm. The local church, St. Mary's, is a prominent feature of the village, dating back to the 14th century and showcasing beautiful medieval architecture.

Despite its small size, Beachamwell has a strong sense of community and hosts various events throughout the year, including a popular summer fete. The village also has a village hall, which serves as a hub for social gatherings and community activities.

The surrounding area provides ample opportunities for outdoor activities. The nearby Peddars Way, a long-distance footpath, offers stunning walks through the Norfolk countryside, while Thetford Forest Park, a short drive away, provides opportunities for cycling, picnicking, and wildlife spotting.

Overall, Beachamwell is a picturesque and welcoming village that offers a tranquil retreat for those seeking a slower pace of life in the heart of rural Norfolk.

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Beachamwell Images

Images are sourced within 2km of 52.617663/0.587088 or Grid Reference TF7505. Thanks to Geograph Open Source API. All images are credited.

Farm track east of Caldecote Farm

Kim Fyson

The ruin of St. John's church Beachamwell

This church became redundant and the living united with All Saints in the first year of the reign of Elizabeth I (1558), like hundreds of other churches at that time. The structure dates back to the 14th c. although an earlier church may have stood on this site from before Domesday. It is believed that the stone was robbed out and cottages constructed nearby or even within the ruin. Nearby St John’s farm may contain much of the material from the site. The outline of the nave can just be ascertained by the raised area to the east of the substantial remains of the tower, parts of the walls are still standing. Putlog holes are clearly visible in the walls of the tower. Today horses seek shelter from the varying degrees of weather and sheep and lambs graze the pasture. An idyllic setting in a beautiful and tranquil part of the Norfolk countryside.

Adrian S Pye

St. Mary's church Beachamwell

An interesting and ancient church, built by the Saxons. Typical Saxon openings or windows can be seen on the north and west faces, while on the east and south faces are round headed and may have been replacements after the Conquest with the Norman influence, the octagonal upper stage is 14th c. Inside the nave a high east doorway is easily recognisable. A crow-stepped gable indicates the age of the porch to be about 15th c. A terrible Victorian excuse for a font is used while the far better octagonal one from All Saints stands neglected outside the porch. The unusual profile of the columns of the arcade are interesting, more so the graffiti written thereon in the 14th c. The Jacobean pulpit and reading desk are very good quality. In the centre of the now extended south aisle is a nice cusped piscina.

Adrian S Pye

Shingham St. Botolph's church

Adrian S Pye

Beachamwell War Memorial

The Memorial bears 12 names form WW1 and four from WW2.

Outdoor pigs

Outdoor pigs

Beachamwell Road

St Mary's Church burnt out, Beachamwell

See TF7505 : St Mary's church for an earlier view of this church before the thatched roof and interior were lost to a fire in early February, see Link