St Nicholas' Church Blakeney
A 15th-century church with distinctive twin towers, offering breathtaking coastal views from its 104-foot tower.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Tower is open for climbs
St Nicholas' Church Blakeney
Best Time
Tower is open for climbs
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 15th-century church with distinctive twin towers, offering breathtaking coastal views from its 104-foot tower.
"The view from the tower is exceptional, highly recommended."
🎯 Climb the Tower
Ascend the 137 spiral steps for incredible coastal views. Open weekdays 10 AM-3 PM.
📸 Capture the Landmark
The church's twin towers make for a striking photo, especially against the coastal backdrop.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Church Tower View
St Nicholas' Church Tower
Climb 137 spiral steps for stunning 360-degree views of the coast, from Cley to Wells-next-the-sea.
Unique Twin Towers
Exterior of St Nicholas' Church
Admire the church's distinctive architecture, featuring two towers that serve as a prominent landmark.
Hidden Treasures Inside
Interior of St Nicholas' Church
Discover amazing and unique treasures within the church that are not commonly found elsewhere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Climb for Coastal Views
A Beacon on the Ridge
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Climb the Tower
Ascend the 137 spiral steps for incredible coastal views. Open weekdays 10 AM-3 PM.
📸 Capture the Landmark
The church's twin towers make for a striking photo, especially against the coastal backdrop.
🚶♀️ Coastal Path Access
Easily accessible from the North Norfolk Coastal Path, a perfect stop on your walk.
☕ Refreshments Available
Sometimes refreshments are available, but confirm if they are for general use or specific events.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Climb the Tower
Ascend the 137 spiral steps for incredible coastal views. Open weekdays 10 AM-3 PM.
📸 Capture the Landmark
The church's twin towers make for a striking photo, especially against the coastal backdrop.
🚶♀️ Coastal Path Access
Easily accessible from the North Norfolk Coastal Path, a perfect stop on your walk.
☕ Refreshments Available
Sometimes refreshments are available, but confirm if they are for general use or specific events.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise St Nicholas' Church for its stunning coastal views from the tower and its unique architectural features, including the twin towers. Many appreciate the opportunity to explore the church's interior treasures and the convenience of its location along the coastal path. However, some find the tower climb challenging, and one reviewer noted an uncomfortable experience regarding refreshments for an event.
"This was our third visit to this church. The first time, it offered us shelter from heavy rain; the second time, we were lured by the "Tower open" sign; and now, for the third time, we're back to marvel at the wonderful view of Blakeney Point and the treasures in this beautiful church. Thx for keeping it open!"
Sophie Machatschke
"Lovely Church and great views of the coast from the top of the tower. Not an easy climb up the spiral stare case."
Chris Austin
"Visited this beautiful church 17th aug 2025, upon arriving in main entrance, i approached a table set out with refreshments, there was a sign saying please help yourslf, i poured myslf a juice as hot day and my friend wanted a coffee, very appreciated for free drink we were about to drink when a gentleman whom was attending a church practice, came rushing up saying, you cant have that its put on for us doing the concert later!!, i was so shocked and embarrassed that i had taken something not allowed, but apologised and said it says help yourself to refreshment, the gentleman then apologised and said excuse my abruptness i assumed this was put on just for us, i said ok but felt very uncomfortable about whole situation my friends said he went upto one of other ladies and told her to watch me as i may take things off table, unbelievable that i am seen as a thief absolutely in gods house why i would be seen this way when clearly stated help yourslf, this gentleman who took one look at me, not bieng from area and not of upper class society and decided i was a potential thief for having a juice on offer. Im appalled the in gods house i was judged and humiliated by so called upper class ellite whom feel more entitled to god and his church than a mere common outsider, now the churches are losing there congregation due to being old in mindset, , why alienate people because they dont look like they deserve respect from god ummmmm, ive put picture of this gentleman as he has really upset me and humiliated me with his friends esp saying keep eye on me how very dare you mr whoever you are, we are all the same in gods eye!!!!!"
mandy jones
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
St Nicholas' Church is located in the village of Blakeney, Norfolk. It's easily accessible by car, with parking available nearby. It's also a prominent landmark along the North Norfolk Coastal Path, making it a great stop for walkers.
While specific bus routes can vary, Blakeney is served by local bus services. Checking with local transport providers for current schedules is recommended for public transport users.
Yes, the church is a very visible landmark from the North Norfolk Coastal Path due to its elevated position and distinctive twin towers.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the church itself is generally free, but there might be a charge or donation requested for climbing the tower. It's best to check on arrival.
The church is often open daily, but the tower climb typically has specific hours, usually Monday to Friday from 10 AM to 3 PM. Always verify on-site for the most current times.
While the church itself is free to enter, climbing the tower may incur a small fee or require a donation to help with its upkeep.
The church building may be accessible at certain times, but the tower climb will strictly adhere to its posted opening hours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you can find unique treasures and historical artifacts not commonly seen in other churches. The architecture itself is also a point of interest.
The tower climb involves 137 spiral steps, which can be challenging for some. It's a steep ascent, so take your time and be prepared.
From the top of the 104-foot tower, you'll get exceptional panoramic views of Blakeney Point and the coastline stretching towards Cley and Wells-next-the-sea.
Information on specific facilities like restrooms is not widely detailed, but it's advisable to use facilities in the village before visiting if needed.
Photography is generally permitted inside churches for personal use, but it's always polite to be discreet and avoid flash photography, especially during services or events.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Blakeney village offers several pubs and cafes where you can enjoy refreshments and meals after your visit.
Occasionally, refreshments might be available, especially if there's an event like a concert. However, it's not guaranteed for general visitors, and one visitor reported confusion over availability.
📸 📸 Photography
The church's twin towers are a great subject from the outside. The panoramic views from the tower are also exceptional for landscape photography.
Drone usage regulations can be strict, especially around historical buildings and coastal areas. Always check local bylaws and obtain necessary permissions before flying a drone.
Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) can provide beautiful light for photographing the church's exterior and the surrounding landscape.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, the narrow, winding stairs might be challenging for very young children or those with strollers. Inside, the church's 'hidden treasures' could be a point of interest for children, encouraging them to look for unique details. The church's location near the coast also means families can easily combine a visit with beach activities or exploring the village.
🚶♀️ Hikers & Coastal Path Walkers
Its elevated position offers a natural vantage point to appreciate the surrounding landscape. The tower climb provides an excellent opportunity to gain a higher perspective of the path ahead or the route already covered. Consider planning your walk to coincide with the tower's opening hours if you wish to ascend. The church's presence also means there are likely amenities or places to rest in the nearby village of Blakeney after your hike.
📸 Photographers
The elevated position of the church also provides a good base for capturing wider landscape shots of the North Norfolk coast. For the most dramatic shots, consider visiting during the golden hours of sunrise or sunset. The panoramic views from the tower are exceptional, offering sweeping vistas that are ideal for landscape photographers.
Remember to check the tower's opening times if you plan to capture the views from above. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Tower Climb Experience
It's important to note that the tower has specific opening hours, typically Monday to Friday from 10 AM to 3 PM.
While the church itself is often accessible, the tower climb is a distinct experience that requires planning around these times. The effort is consistently praised as worthwhile for the breathtaking scenery. For those with mobility concerns, the steep, narrow spiral staircase might be a challenge. However, for those who can make the ascent, the views are described as exceptional and a significant reason to visit this historic church.
Architectural Significance
The church dates back to the 15th century, and its structure reflects the ecclesiastical architecture of that period.The presence of two towers is unusual and adds to the church's visual appeal and historical intrigue. One tower is slightly smaller than the other, contributing to its unique silhouette against the sky.
Beyond its external appearance, the interior of St Nicholas' Church is also noted for housing 'amazing treasures' that are not commonly found in other churches, making it a place of interest for those who appreciate historical artifacts and religious art. Community and Events
However, it's worth noting that community events can sometimes affect general access. One reviewer shared an uncomfortable experience where refreshments laid out for an event were mistakenly assumed to be for general public use, leading to an awkward interaction.
Social
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