St Peter and St Paul Church Repps with Baswick
St Peters and St Pauls Church
St Peter and St Pauls church of Repps with Bastwick is one of the remaining traditional round tower churches in the general area made from local flint and lies within a civil parish located in Norfolks English County. The churches parish consists of the nearby villages of Repps with Bastwick, around 16 kilometers northwest of Great Yarmouth Town and 22 kilometers northeast of Norwich Town. Saint Peters and St Pauls church parish is situated between Bastwick and River Thurne near the village of Potter Heigham. The border of the parish is located at the south end of Bastwick by the bridge that supports the A149 road over the River Thurne that leads to Potter Heigham village. The parish is around 5 square kilometers in size, and has a population of four hundred odd people in just under two hundred households, according to the a census taken in the early 2000’s. For local government, the church of Saint Peter and St Paul falls within the Great Yarmouth district in Norfolk. In addition, Repps-with-Bastwicks St Peter and St Paul Church is one of the hundred & twenty-four existing tower style round shape flint built stone churches in the Norfolk area like Yaxham church also with a flint stone round tower.
The St Peter and St Paul Church in Repps with Bastwick is a beautiful and historic place of worship that has been standing for over 900 years. This Grade II listed building is a shining example of medieval architecture, with its prominent tower, ornate carvings, and stained glass windows. The church has a rich history, having been a place of worship for generations of local residents and a witness to many significant events in the village’s past.
One of the most unique features of this church is its 15th-century rood screen, which divides the nave from the chancel. This intricately carved screen is a testament to the skilled craftsmanship of the time and is adorned with images of saints and biblical scenes. It also serves as a reminder of the church’s Catholic origins before the English Reformation.
The interior of the church is equally impressive, with its high ceilings, intricately carved pews, and beautiful altar. The stained glass windows, dating back to the 14th and 15th centuries, are also a sight to behold. They depict scenes from the Bible and pay tribute to the church’s patron saints, Peter and Paul.
The church has undergone several renovations and additions over the years, but its original structure and character have been carefully preserved. The tower, with its distinctive octagonal shape, was added in the 16th century and houses a ring of six bells, which are still rung regularly during services and special occasions.
Repps St Peter and St Paul Church Community
The churchyard is also a peaceful and serene place, with gravestones dating back to the 17th century. It is a popular spot for visitors to sit and reflect, surrounded by the beauty of nature and the echoes of history. The churchyard also includes a war memorial, honoring the local soldiers who gave their lives in World War I and II.
Today, the St Peter and St Paul Church continues to be a place of worship and a hub for the community. The church holds regular services, including weddings and baptisms, and hosts various events throughout the year.
The St Peter and St Paul Church in Repps with Bastwick is not just a building, it is an integral part of the villages identity and a symbol of its enduring faith and resilience. It stands as a testament to the generations who have come before us and a reminder of the importance of preserving our history and heritage for future generations.
