Church of the Holy Sepulchre, Thetford — A Rare Templar Church

A Sacred Link to the Knights Templar

In the centre of Thetford, the quiet ruins of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre offer a remarkable connection to the Knights Templar.
Built in the early 12th century, it was inspired by the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in Jerusalem — reflecting the Templars’ role in the Crusades and the protection of pilgrims.

Today, its circular foundations remain one of only four round churches surviving in England.

The Knights Templar in Norfolk

The Templars were a powerful military and religious order.
Their round churches symbolised the resurrection and the holiest site in Christendom.

Therefore, the Thetford church stood as a bold statement of faith and identity — right at the frontier of medieval England.

After the order was suppressed in 1312, the site passed to the Knights Hospitaller, who kept it active until the Dissolution.

Exploring the Church of the Holy Sepulchre
1. The Round Nave

You can clearly trace the circular shape of the original church.
This unusual design created a sense of unity around the altar — placing worshippers closer together in devotion.

2. Surviving Stonework

Fragments of walls and bases show where columns once supported a central roof.
In addition, interpretation signs explain how the structure expanded over time with a chancel and auxiliary rooms.

3. Peaceful Riverside Setting

The site sits close to the River Thet and surrounding parkland.
Birdsong and open views make it ideal for a quiet heritage walk or a reflective moment amid history.

Learn more at the English Heritage website

A Rare Survivor of Crusader Architecture

Only a small number of Templar round churches remain visible in Britain — including those in London and Cambridge.
Thetford’s ruins therefore provide a special opportunity to appreciate Crusader-influenced architecture in a local, accessible setting.

Furthermore, the simplicity of the site makes its story feel especially close and human.

It’s history hidden yet unforgettable.

Visiting the Church of the Holy Sepulchre
How to Get There

Address: Thetford, Norfolk IP24 2BQ

By Train: 15 minutes’ walk from Thetford Station

By Bus: Town centre stops nearby

By Car: Parking available near Thetford Priory (short walk)

Opening Hours & Admission

Open daily, dawn to dusk. Free entry.

Facilities

Open lawns and nearby benches

Part of a wider riverside walk

Step-free access on grassy areas

Nearby Attractions

Thetford Priory — Grand monastic ruins

Thetford Warren Lodge — Medieval gamekeeper tower

Ancient Earthworks — Saxon history beneath the landscape

Dad’s Army Museum — Town heritage with pop culture twist

Together, they form the Thetford Heritage Circuit.

Why Visit Thetford’s Round Church?

The Church of the Holy Sepulchre offers a unique window into Crusader-era religion and architecture.
It is small in size but rich in stories — about knights, faith, and a world connected by pilgrimage.

Whether you’re on a heritage walk or exploring local ruins, this peaceful site rewards careful looking and reflection.

It’s not just a ruin — it’s a rare symbol of medieval devotion.