Orford St Bartholomew?s church

Image: © Adrian S Pye Taken: 2 Mar 2007

Orford is a magnificent church. The ruined chancel has some of the finest Norman architecture to be seen anywhere in the county. Unfortunately, it was built for beauty rather than strength. But take a moment to admire the outstanding Norman stonework before you go inside. Part of the old nave is now the chancel. The upper tower was rebuilt after it collapsed in 1830 but the exceptional 14th century doorways are original. Most of what you see is 14th century. The exceptions are the brasses, of which there are many late 15th century onwards; the unusual parclose screen which is 16th century and the parish chest, dated 1634. The font is actually dated 1400 and is an early traditional East Anglian type with wodewoses and lions around the base, double corbel beneath the bowl, and rich carving round it.

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