EXPLORING EAST ANGLIA’S ROUND-TOWER CHURCHES

Of England’s 180 round-tower churches, the majority are in East Anglia. Theories abound as to why, from an assertion that the local flint wasn’t suited to building corners to speculation that the churches played a defensive role in fending off invaders. ST MARGARET’S CHURCH, BURNHAM NORTON, NORFOLK

Set on a hilltop, St Margaret’s church in North Norfolk is arguably the most beautiful of the medieval Burnham churches. Its simple interior sets off the painted heptagonal wineglass pulpit and art-deco east window.

ST MARY’S CHURCH, PAKENHAM, SUFFOLK

This unusual cruciform church is a rare design in Suffolk. It was one frowned upon by the Reformers because it split the congregation, making it difficult for everyone to focus on the pulpit.

ST MARGARET’S CHURCH, HALES, NORFOLK

With its thatched roof, St Margaret’s is a striking church from another age. Largely unaltered for some 900 years, it stands in isolated splendour, its carved doorway beckoning visitors to explore the rustic interior and painted walls depicting medieval faces.

ALL SAINTS CHURCH, RAMSHOLT, SUFFOLK

All Saints has a thousand years of history and is delightful in its simplicity, standing alone on a slight rise overlooking the River Deben. Inside, it has whitewashed walls and box pews.