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The Saxon Minster |
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The Minster, once described as "one of the most romantic ruins in England" has been the subject of debate and controversy amongst historians for over 150 years. It is now accepted that South Elmham Minster, like its counterpart in Norfolk, North Elmham, was an Episcopal chapel built by Herbert de Losing, the founder of Norwich Cathedral. But why here in such splendid isolation? Was the site a fortified enclosure, possibly Roman? As the origins of this extraordinary place lie in the Saxon Dark Ages - and no records survive - we shall probably never know all the answers. For now it provides an evocative and atmospheric haven for wildlife. The many hornbeams provide an ideal habitat and food supply for rare hawfinches, though you are more likely to hear (and perhaps see) blackcaps and warblers, woodpeckers and spotted flycatchers.
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