Brundish St Lawrence

What’s special?

The way the light pours into this beautiful building with one of the broadest nave aisles in Suffolk at 30ft.

Pausing in the silence to watch the gently-swaying trees through the spectacular east window.

How old is it?

Much of the tall and sturdy tower is Norman, dating back to the late 1000s. You can still see traces of the Norman windows, blocked up in the late 1300s when the tower was heightened and a west doorway added

You can read Peter Northeast’s account of the famous chantry for six chaplains to pray for the soul of the Earl of Suffolk, Robert de Ufford, and all his benefactors, during the reign of Richard II.

A 19^th century re-ordering retained the old furnishings such as box pews with medieval benches

Puritan iconoclast William Dowsing paid a visit in 1644 which accounts for the absence of stained glass that would once have adorned the building.

Highlights

The fine gargoyles atop the tower and on the porch. Read more about the exterior of the church here.

A rare collection of brasses that includes the earliest effigy of a Suffolk parson – Sir Edmund of Brundish – dated around 1360. Priests were known as ‘Sir’ in those days. He’s also featured on the village sign.

The gorgeous east window with its tiny fragments of medieval glass. Look out for the curious devil-like creature and the crowned head of a king.

The beautifully-restored Royal Arms of 1765 for King George III.

The large churchyard, managed for wildlife

And today?

The church remains open and welcoming. It is a much-loved and beautifully cared-for building.

There is much more to discover in this church as the compelling guidebook by Roy Tricker reveals. You can buy one in the church.

The village of Brundish is a thriving and active community.

Builders are currently working at the church to combat the damp with cast-iron guttering being fitted. This is part of a Heritage Lottery-funded scheme for a soakaway ditch to join the River Alde.

Tales to tell

There’s a tombstone by the west door in the churchyard for Reginald Livesey who died at Brundish manor in 1932. Author Arthur Mee tells us this British scientist and explorer went to Australia at 19 then on to a Pacific Island to study the bird life where he was alone apart from the native population who practised cannibalism. He survived to undertake a pilgrimage through parts of Africa at 76 and returned to die quietly in Brundish at 78.

What’s nearby?

You can eat at the Crown Inn, Brundish. Find them on Facebook and ring before you go on 01728 628 282 to check opening times.

You are just four miles from the historic market town of Framlingham with its magnificent castle, one-time seat of the Howards, Dukes of Norfolk. See their tombs in St Michael’s church next door

Nearby churches: Badingham St John, Worlingworth St Mary, Dennington St Mary

 Things to note: access for people with disabilities

There is a ramp in the tower to assist access for wheelchair users which would need to be put in place. If you are planning to visit, you are invited to telephone one of the churchwardens on 01379 388808 or 01379 384444 to ensure easy access.