The spooky ruined St Mary's Church at East Somerton, Norfolk
Set within the grounds of Burnley Hall, St Mary’s, a perpendicular church, was built in the 15th century.
Originally a parish church, but later used as a chapel for the residents of Burnley Hall, the building fell into disuse during the 17th century. The parish was subsumed into that of neighbouring Winterton.
As for the spookiness, believe it if you will, but some say that centuries ago, a witch with a wooden leg was buried alive in St Mary’s and from her leg, a large oak tree grew and destroyed the church.
And lo and behold, a tree can be found growing in the middle of the original nave.
Some believe that if you walk around the tree three times, the vengeful spirit of the witch will be released. Would I have tried this if I had known the story?
The spooky ruined St Mary's Church at East Somerton, Norfolk
Set within the grounds of Burnley Hall, St Mary’s, a perpendicular church, was built in the 15th century.
Originally a parish church, but later used as a chapel for the residents of Burnley Hall, the building fell into disuse during the 17th century. The parish was subsumed into that of neighbouring Winterton.
As for the spookiness, believe it if you will, but some say that centuries ago, a witch with a wooden leg was buried alive in St Mary’s and from her leg, a large oak tree grew and destroyed the church.
And lo and behold, a tree can be found growing in the middle of the original nave.
Some believe that if you walk around the tree three times, the vengeful spirit of the witch will be released. Would I have tried this if I had known the story?