St Margaret's Church


People have gathered to worship God in this place for over 900 years. We invite you to enjoy this magnificent building and to pause awhile where generations have come to pray

May you also be strengthened by your visit and find God's peace in this place


St Margaret's church Upton is one of the Ranworth group of parish churches, which also includes South Walsham, Panxworth, Woodbastwick and Ranworth. Each of the parishes in the group retains a strong sense of identity while seeking to support and encourage the others in the common work and ministry in this corner of the Norfolk Broads


The Church is open daily
The Sunday service is at 9:30 a.m.

On the fifth Sunday of the month there is a joint service held at one of the churches in the group... you are most welcome to join us


 

 

The Building

Upton church has a wonderful sense of light and space. Built in the Perpendicular style of the late 14th century, its majestic height and length were designed to give glory to God and to provide an inspirational setting for the praise and prayers of God's people.

Of the earlier Norman church, little remains. It was founded in 1171, a year after the murder of Thomas Becket, Archbishop of Canterbury, to whom the chapel at the end of the north aisle was dedicated. A fine Norman basin or 'piscina', can be seen set into the wall by the main entrance door

 

The Font

This is one of church's greatest treasures and ranks among the best in Norfolk. For over 600 years, children and adults have been baptised at this font as ther are welcomed into Christian family.

The curved pedestal displays the two main sacraments of the Church, Baptism and Holy Communion. Baptism is represented by a Godfather and two Godmothers one whom is holding an infant in her arms. Holy Communion is shown in a group centred on a bishop with a pastoral staff. He is flanked by two angels and two priests, one holding an open service book, the other carrying the bread and wine used in the sacrament of Holy Communion.