Historic Churches that Tell the Stories of East of England Villages

Naomi Strudley
Aug 11
4 min read

Churches and pubs have long been the cornerstone of village life. One a place of quiet reflection, the other a place to gather with loved ones and share stories. Here in the East of England, many of the most fascinating churches sit just down the road from our pubs, making them ideal for a morning of exploring followed by lunch, dinner or an overnight stay.

These buildings are more than just bricks and flint. They hold centuries of history, community and change. Here’s our collection of interesting churches located close by to our pubs.

The Holy Trinity Church, Long Melford

Nearest Pub: The Black Lion

At the northern tip of Long Melford, The Holy Trinity Church rises from the hilltop like a time capsule from the height of the wool trade. Rebuilt in the 15^th century due to the wealth generated by the local cloth industry, it’s one of the most celebrated parish churches in the country that’s full of stories. One theory even claims the remains of St Edmund may rest in its Lady Chapel.

It’s just a short wander back to The Black Lion, a pub with its own sense of history and the perfect stop to rest, refuel, or stay the night.

St Mary’s Church, East Bergholt

Nearest Pub: The Red Lion

The bells of East Bergholt are well known, not because of where they ring, but how. When funding for St Mary’s Church tower ran dry in the 1500s, the villagers improvised. A wooden Bell Cage was built in the churchyard and ever since, the bells have been rung by hand, not by rope. It’s one of the only places in the country where that’s still the case.

After exploring the church, take a wander to The Red Lion. This welcoming spot will be reopening at the end of August for food, drink and stays.

St James’ Church, Dunwich

Nearest Pub: The Ship at Dunwich

St James’ Church is the last to remain in Dunwich, built inland in the 19^th century to replace the eight churches lost to the sea. Over centuries, coastal erosion has swept much of old Dunwich into the waves, leaving behind just a few gravestones and the ruins of Greyfriars Monastery.

But the stories remain. Locals say that during storms, you can hear the bells of sunken churches ringing beneath the sea. One piece of folklore known as ‘the dark heart of Dunwich’ tells of a broken-hearted maiden who still haunts the beach, searching for her lost love.

After exploring the coast and the village’s layered past, head to The Ship where you’ll find hearty plates of seasonal food, a large garden and a fire when it’s cold.

St Mary’s Church, Saffron Walden

Nearest Pub: The Eight Bells

Towering above the rooftops of Saffron Walden, St Mary’s is the largest parish church in Essex with a spire that stretches 193 feet into the sky. Dating back to the 15^th century, it reflects Saffron Walden’s medieval wealth – built on the saffron trade that gave the town its name.

Once you’ve admired the stained glass and wandered the aisles, The Eight Bells is ready with a menu worth enjoying in their walled garden.

St Edmundsbury Cathedral, Bury St Edmunds

Nearest Pub: The Weeping Willow, Barrow

This cathedral isn’t just a building; it’s a thread in England’s story. It’s where saints were honoured, where the seeds of the Magna Carta were sown, and where the newly completed tower and cloisters bring new light to a 1,000-year-old vision. St Edmundsbury Cathedral and the Abbey Gardens now offer a place to pause, where every stone and window tells a story.

When it’s time to eat, drink, or simply stay a while, The Weeping Willow in Barrow offers a modern country pub just a short drive away.

The Round Church, Cambridge

Nearest Pubs: The Carpenters Arms, The Three Blackbirds, The Packhorse Inn

One of just four round churches in England, the Round Church in Cambridge is a compact, powerful reminder of the city’s spiritual and academic history. Built around 1130 and inspired by the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem, its shape and shadows are unforgettable.

Pair it with a visit to any of our pubs just outside the city – each one full of character and comfort.

St Andrews Church, Holt

Nearest Pub: The Feathers

The stained-glass windows of St Andrew’s may not be ancient, but they tell a timeless story. Local saints, biblical figures, and the great Chaucer himself appear in vibrant panes that glow in the Norfolk light. This is a church alive with faith and a strong sense of community.

Back in the centre of Holt, The Feathers is a place to reflect on it all over a pint or a Sunday lunch.

St Nicholas’ Church, Wells-next-the-Sea

Nearest Pub: The Globe at Wells

Rebuilt after a lightning strike in the 19^th century, St Nicholas’ Church has stood firm through storms, sea winds and the stories of a coastal town. The graveyard holds the resting place of John Fryer, sailing master of HMS Bounty – just one of many details waiting to be discovered here.

At The Globe, overlooking The Buttlands just across from the church, you’ll find a relaxed and welcoming base

for exploring the rest of Wells.

All Saints Church, Weybourne

Nearest Big House hotel: The Maltings

A church of layers, All Saints in Weybourne was once part of an Augustinian priory and now reveals traces of Saxon, Norman, and Victorian influences. It’s a quiet spot with a rich history, from Viking landings to wartime fears, tucked behind the cliff on the North Norfolk coast.

Finish your visit with a drink in Bolding's Bar at The Maltings or lunch in The Grain Store, just moments from

the sea.

Wherever you go across the East of England, the villages have a story to tell. The churches remind us of what came before and the pubs bring people together in the here and now.