St Olave’s Priory — Norfolk’s Riverside Monastic Ruin

A Quiet Reminder of Monastic Life

Set near the River Waveney, St Olave’s Priory is a beautiful fragment of Norfolk’s medieval religious heritage.
Founded by Augustinian canons in the 13th century, its ruins give a vivid glimpse of monastic architecture and daily devotion.

Today, the surviving high-arched refectory wall makes this a small but striking site to explore.

A Priory with Scandinavian Inspiration

The priory was dedicated to St Olaf (Olave) — the Viking king of Norway who converted to Christianity.
His cult was popular across medieval England, especially in coastal communities with Scandinavian links.

Therefore, St Olave’s Priory reflects Norfolk’s enduring connections with the North Sea world.

Exploring St Olave’s Priory
1. The Refectory Remains

The tall refectory wall stands proudly above the grass.
You can still see window tracery and decorative stonework that once brightened the monks’ communal dining hall.
Interpretation boards help bring the vanished structures back to life.

2. Peaceful Grounds

Surrounded by trees and meadows, the site invites visitors to pause, wander, and enjoy birdsong.
In addition, the nearby river and rural footpaths make this a pleasant stop on a longer walk.

3. Holy History and Local Legends

Documents show that the priory served both travellers and the local community.
After Henry VIII’s Dissolution, much of it was dismantled — yet these walls survived as a reminder of centuries of worship and service.

Learn more at the English Heritage website

A Small Site with Big Atmosphere

Although only a fragment remains, St Olave’s Priory feels rich with history.
Its riverside calm contrasts with the powerful faith that once shaped the buildings here.
Furthermore, its peaceful setting makes it an inspiring photography and picnic spot.

It’s heritage hidden in the landscape — waiting to be noticed.

Visiting St Olave’s Priory
How to Get There

Address: St Olaves, Great Yarmouth NR31 9HE

By Car: Small parking area close to the ruins

By Bus: Services to St Olaves village

Opening Hours & Admission

Open daily, dawn–dusk; free entry.

Facilities

Open green space

Seating areas nearby

Step-free access around the grounds

Nearby Attractions

Great Yarmouth Row Houses & Greyfriars’ Cloisters — Coastal medieval heritage

Burgh Castle — Impressive Roman fort with estuary views

Gorleston Beach — Wide sandy bay south of Yarmouth

Oulton Broad — Gateway to the Suffolk Broads

Together, they form the Waveney Valley Heritage Trail.

Why Visit St Olave’s Priory?

The St Olave’s experience is peaceful, photogenic, and historically rich.
It’s perfect for travellers who love discovering smaller sites that still tell a powerful story.

Whether you’re passing through or planning a heritage-filled day out, these medieval remains offer a quiet moment to connect with Norfolk’s past.

It’s not just a ruin — it’s a riverside sanctuary of memory.