Pensthorpe

Pensthorpe is a civil parish and village located in the north of Norfolk, England. The parish encompasses the village of Pensthorpe and the surrounding agricultural land. Historically, Pensthorpe was a small rural community, with its origins likely dating back to Anglo-Saxon times. The parish church, dedicated to St Mary, is a Grade II listed building and features architectural elements from various periods, reflecting its long history.

In recent decades, Pensthorpe has become widely known for Pensthorpe Natural Park, a significant wildlife and nature reserve. This park, established on the site of a former country estate, is a major tourist attraction and conservation area. It features diverse habitats including wetlands, woodlands, and wildflower meadows, and is home to a wide array of birdlife, mammals, and insects. The park offers educational facilities and opportunities for visitors to explore and learn about the natural environment. The village itself retains a quiet, rural character, with a scattering of residential properties and some local amenities. The economy of the parish remains largely agricultural, supplemented by tourism generated by the natural park.