Best attractions and places to see around Starston, a rural parish in South Norfolk, England, offers a blend of historical landmarks, natural beauty, and community-focused sites. The area features gently undulating land that slopes towards the Beck and River Waveney, which forms a boundary with Suffolk. Visitors can explore a network of footpaths and ancient woodlands, alongside various historical points of interest.
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Highlight • Pub
Tip by
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more attractions around Starston.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
The more scenic alternative to the modern road bridge on the adjacent B1062. A popular swim and picnic spot in the summer.
0
0
The village of Earsham nestles within a meander of the River Waveney, to the west of the market town of Bungay. Its historic Queen's Head pub operated as a coaching inn in the mid-19th century and is still going today, with a range of real ales, ciders and craft beers. The Angles Way long-distance trail passes through the village.
0
0
With its fine 14th-century tower and impressive spire, All Saints Church is a pretty sight on the edge of Earsham. Two named trails pass the church: Bigod's Way, a 5.5-mile (9 km) loop from Bungay; and the Angles Way, a long-distance trail that follows the River Waveney from the sea at Great Yarmouth to its source, before tracing the Little Ouse to Thetford.
0
0
The Grade I-listed Norman Bungay Castle became the seat of the Bigod family, allies of King William during the conquest of 1066. The Bigods were charismatic leaders among the barons and oversaw the construction of the keep in the latter half of the 12th century. Today, Bungay Castle is an impressive ruin, with its two huge gate towers still intact. However, throughout 2023, the castle was closed for restorations.
0
0
The castle is closed for all of 2023 for refurbishment and repairs https://bungay-suffolk.co.uk/to-do/castle/
0
0
Bungay Castle is a Grade I listed building. The site was originally a Norman castle built in about 1100 to take advantage of the natural protection provided by a curve in the River Waveney. The remains today of the castle include its keep, gatehouse, curtain wall and the remnants of the castle’s inner bailey wall. Open daily between 10am and 4pm, the castle can be visited via the visitor centre on the road known as Castle Orchard.
0
0
Within Starston, you can explore St. Margaret's Church, a Grade I listed building dating back to approximately 1300, known for its medieval body and tower. The village also features the restored Starston Village Sign & Wind Pump, which originally transported water to Starston Place. While private, Starston Hall and the former railway station building also add to the village's historical character.
Starston is rich in natural beauty, featuring gently undulating land that slopes towards the Beck and River Waveney. The parish is well-served by woodlands, including two areas of ancient woodland, and a network of enjoyable footpaths that offer valuable habitats for wildlife.
At the heart of Starston's community are the Jubilee Hall, a converted cowshed serving as a community hub, and the Glebe Meadow. The meadow is a public space for quiet reflection, dog walking, and community events, featuring an orchard of 26 different fruit tree species.
Yes, several attractions in the area are suitable for families. Bungay Town Centre is a family-friendly historical site with shops and the ruins of Bigod Castle. Bungay Castle itself is also considered family-friendly, though it has undergone restorations. Slightly further afield, options like Bressingham Steam Museum & Gardens and Banham Zoo are popular choices for families.
While Starston itself is a small village, the nearby Earsham Village hosts the historic Queen's Head pub, known for its real ales and ciders. In Bungay Town Centre, you'll find various food options, including the Earsham Street Cafe, which is also cycle-friendly.
Starston is surrounded by a network of footpaths and woodlands. You can find numerous hiking opportunities, including routes like 'The Angles Way – Homersfield Bridge loop from Mendham' and 'Tyrrel's Wood loop from Shelton and Hardwick'. For more details on trails, visit the Hiking around Starston guide.
Yes, the area offers various cycling routes. You can explore options like 'Halesworth Town Centre – Homersfield Bridge loop from Starston' for road cycling or 'Bungay Town Centre – Old Railway Road by the A143 loop from Starston' for general cycling. Detailed routes can be found in the Road Cycling Routes around Starston and Cycling around Starston guides.
For those willing to venture a bit further, the South Norfolk region offers attractions such as Bressingham Steam Museum & Gardens, Banham Zoo, The Norfolk Tank Museum, and The 100th Bomb Group Memorial Museum. The market town of Harleston is also nearby, providing various facilities and serving as a good base for exploring the Waveney Valley.
While Starston is a rural parish, public transport options may be limited. It's advisable to check local bus schedules or consider driving for easier access to the village and its surrounding attractions. The former railway station in Starston closed to passenger services in 1866.
Yes, the Glebe Meadow in Starston is a public space valued for dog walking. Additionally, the extensive network of footpaths and woodlands throughout the parish provides many opportunities for dog-friendly walks, allowing you to explore the natural landscape with your pet.
The gently undulating landscape and network of footpaths make Starston enjoyable for outdoor activities throughout much of the year. Spring and summer offer pleasant weather for exploring woodlands and meadows, while autumn provides beautiful scenery. Always check local weather forecasts before planning your outdoor excursions.
Beyond the main landmarks, the restored Starston Village Sign & Wind Pump is a unique roadside feature with historical significance. The Glebe Meadow, with its orchard of 26 different fruit tree species, offers a quiet and unique community space for reflection.
Visitors appreciate the blend of historical charm and natural beauty. For instance, Homersfield Bridge is loved for being the oldest concrete bridge in Great Britain and a charming spot to admire the River Waveney. Bungay Town Centre is praised for its 'beautiful, peaceful and tranquil' atmosphere and great local shops.


Still not found the Highlight you’re looking for? See guides of the top attractions in other regions: