About Us

Following guidance from the Church of England we are approaching the lifting of Covid restrictions on July 19th with caution.
In our services and concerts across the Benefice, we will restore the roped off pews but will still be encouraging everyone to keep 1m social distance where possible.
We will still be asking everyone to wear masks for the time being.

The best news is that we are allowed to sing! But to stay safe we will only sing carefully whilst wearing masks.

Our primary aim is for everyone to be safe and feel safe.

As a church community across the Benefice, we endeavour to:

- Be an inclusive church which celebrates human diversity and welcomes all.

- Create a space where people can grow in their Christian faith and discover more of the love of God and of the sacred in life, through prayer and worship.

- Can question and explore together, in our joys and struggles, and support one another through mutual care and hospitality.

- Be alert to the needs of our local community and the wider world, and committed to solidarity with those who are marginalised.

- Celebrate life in all its fullness and care for creation.

There is a strong community feeling for Cley Church. The building is normally open every day and, as one of Simon Jenkins’ 1000 best churches in the country, attracts a lot of visitors.

There is a great creative spirit in the church. From decorating the porches for Advent and Easter, to Flower festivals, concerts, exhibitions. The beautiful space invites creativity and worship.

Once a month, the back of the nave comes alive for Café Church when it is full of people enjoying doing church differently – coffee and croissants and Sunday papers to help our inspiration. Equally popular and special are the Advent Carol Service led by Gresham’s choir and the Crib Service on Christmas Eve.

There is an attractive card stall at the back selling cards by local artists. Weekly flower arranging is undertaken by a voluntary rota.

Since 2012, St Margaret’s has hosted an annual exhibition of contemporary art by the North Norfolk Exhibition Project (click here to learn more). This has been very successful in attracting a large number of visitors, and in recent years the church has hosted an annual Benefice service celebrating the artwork in the church.

An annual fundraising highlight is St Margaret’s Fair in July, held on the church field as part of our Patronal Festival weekend. A great community event.

Come and see us soon!