Slipper Chapel

The Slipper Chapel sits just outside Fakenham, a small medieval church that's become something of a pilgrimage destination for reasons most visitors won't immediately grasp. It's the sort of place where the history runs deeper than the tourist infrastructure, which is either brilliant or frustrating depending on your mood.

The chapel itself is genuinely old - we're talking 14th century, though it's been heavily restored over the years. What makes it significant is the legend: pilgrims travelling to Walsingham Abbey (now a ruin) would stop here to remove their shoes and walk the final stretch barefoot as an act of devotion. Hence the name. Whether you find that moving or slightly bonkers probably depends on how you feel about medieval religious practice.

It's free to visit, though opening hours aren't widely advertised, so ring ahead before making the trip. Allow 20 minutes if you're just popping in, longer if you're the type to read every inscription. The chapel works best for anyone with a genuine interest in pilgrimage routes or medieval Norfolk - families with young kids will likely find it underwhelming after five minutes.

If you're staying at one of the nearby caravan parks - North Norfolk Glamping is closest at 2.7 miles, or the Norfolk Coast option a bit further out - it makes a reasonable morning detour on your way to Walsingham. The village itself is quiet, which is the point. Don't expect facilities or crowds. That's rather the appeal.