A truly magical place, St Mary's Church has been wrapped back up in nature since it was abandoned in the 17th century. The size of the oak tree that rises up in the centre of the ruins tells you just how long it has been since worshippers set foot inside. Legend has it that the tree grew from the wooden leg of a witch who was buried here.

Natalie

January 13, 2023

Running

Alice Baddeley

July 27, 2023

Cycling

In the woods of East Somerton are the ruins of St Mary’s church, with glassless windows, tumbling walls, and a tower where you can look up into the open sky.

From the 15th-century, St Mary’s went from serving its own parish to becoming part of the larger parish of West Somerton. It fell into disuse in the 17th-century and has remained abandoned.

The most striking feature is a tree in the centre of the ruins, known as “The Witch’s Leg.”

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Best routes near Ruins of St Mary's Church, East Somerton

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1. Winterton-on-Sea & Dunes loop via Winterton Beach — Norfolk Coast

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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

4.2

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2. Winterton on Sea Circular Trail

13.1km

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Hike the moderate 8.1-mile Winterton on Sea Circular Trail through coastal dunes, sandy beaches, and past historic church ruins.

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4.2

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3. Horsey Gap Seal Colony – Horsey Windpump loop from Winterton-on-Sea

16.2km

04:05

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Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Details

Informations

Elevation 10 m

Weather

Today

Thursday 12 March

13°C

5°C

14 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 43.0 km/h

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Take Me There

Location: Somerton, Great Yarmouth, Norfolk, East Of England, England, United Kingdom

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Ruins of St Mary's Church, East Somerton

1. Winterton-on-Sea & Dunes loop via Winterton Beach — Norfolk Coast

2. Winterton on Sea Circular Trail

3. Horsey Gap Seal Colony – Horsey Windpump loop from Winterton-on-Sea

Other Popular Places to Check Out

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