Oulton: Chapels, Textile Heritage and Garden Walks

For a stay with an interest in architectural history and landscaped gardens, Oulton offers several distinct themes. Historic places of worship, the garden at Oulton Hall and the Textile Conservation Studio on Oulton Street each have their own appeal. Visiting arrangements range from fixed seasonal opening hours to tours by prior booking.

Chapels and churches

Oulton Chapel is a Grade II* listed Nonconformist chapel. It was built between 1728 and 1731. It is open on the second Sunday of each month from April to October, from 2 to 4 pm. Please check the opening hours again before your trip.

The Congregational Chapel has original panelling and galleries with original box pews on three sides, supported by slender columns. A small orchard to the west of the chapel can be used as a picnic area.

The Church of St Peter and St Paul in Oulton dates mostly from the 15th century. It comprises a west tower, nave, south porch and chancel. These parts of the building make its architectural layout clear. In contrast to Oulton Chapel, which dates from the early 18th century, the church has an older building fabric that is predominantly late medieval. The nave is the main part of the church; the west tower, south porch and chancel are other named parts of the building.

Textile Conservation Studio

The Textile Conservation Studio is located at Malthouse Barn, Oulton Street, Norfolk, NR11 6AF. It treats historic textiles of all kinds. Tours are available by prior booking only, and a member of the studio staff accompanies each group. Those interested in historic textiles will find a distinct cultural attraction here. Since visits are limited to booked group tours, this stop should be planned in advance.

Gardens and historical connections

The garden at Oulton Hall covers six acres and includes a lake and woodland paths. Its features include herbaceous, Italian, bog, water, wild and lush gardens, as well as sunken and parterre gardens. These named garden styles sit alongside water and woodland paths. Access to the garden is seasonal, so take the time of year into account when planning a visit.

Oulton Hall also includes an 18th-century manor house. Remains of the former RAF Oulton airfield can be seen on Oulton Street. The RAF Walk on the Blickling Estate has no steep climbs. If gradients are a consideration, you can take the walk into account when planning.

This makes it easy to match the different visiting arrangements to the focus of your stay.

Discover more destinations: North Tuddenham, Caister-On-Sea, South Creake, Roughton, Blakeney, Great Witchingham, Wells-Next-The-Sea, West Somerton.

For the regional travel overview: Norfolk.