North Tuddenham is a parish of scattered houses, lying in the centre of Norfolk, comprising of some 2238 acres and bordered to the South by the River Tud. The Parish contains some 123 dwellings, and has an adult population of approximately 250.

Seperated by what was the turnpike and in modern times became the A47 trunk road, the village was divided yet again when Low Road was severed by the construction of the A47 dual carriageway in the early 1990s’.

To the East of the village  next to the Tud valley  the village church , dedicated to St Mary , stands proud against the skyline. The tower is from the late 14^th century and the remainder from the 15^th. To the West lies North Tuddenham Common covering some 23 acres, which over the recent years has been managed as a wildlife habitat under the guidance of Norfolk County Council.

The Village Sign standing on Pound Corner depicts William Cowper, who was a frequent visitor to the parish. The sign was carved by Mr Harry Carter of Swaffham, as were many others on the county.

Like other rural areas there have been vast changes in the village over the past 75 years. Farming has ceased to become the labour intensive employer it was before the Second World War. Most of the smaller farms have lost their identity, with many former farmhouses sold off as private dwellings. In recent years the conversion of redundant farm buildings has contributed to additional homes in the village.

During this period we have lost ‘The Fox and Goose’ public house, the Methodist Chapel, the Village Shop, the School, and recently the Post Office. On a positive note we have gained a much needed Village Hall, and have retained the garage and ‘The Lodge’ public house.

A Villager’s Appreciation of North Tuddenham

By Mike Smith