Location of the Week – Wacton

 

Wacton village sign

The Norfolk village of Wacton is located just 1 mile south-west of Long Stratton and 13 miles south-west of Norwich. The village has a population of 302 people as of the latest census in 2011.

Although Wacton is small in size, it has a long and rich history with evidence suggesting the presence of people as far back as prehistoric times. This evidence takes the form of boiling pots and flints that were discovered in Wacton between 1978 and 1980 during various field walks. Historical evidence from the Bronze Age and Iron Age has also been found in Wacton. The village also had a strong Roman period presence. In fact, it’s quite possible that the name ‘Wacton’ has a Roman meaning of ‘watch town’, which would refer to the watch over the Roman highway at the entrance to Stratton in order to keep watch and guard over the passage to the Roman fortification at Taseboro. At the time, a major Roman road ran through the parish. The Pye Road runs between Scole and the Roman town of Venta Icenorum at Caistor St Edmund. Although it isn’t now used as a road, its presence can still be seen from the air. As well as this, a number of Roman artefacts have been found in Wacton. Most importantly, a gold coin and a finger ring, both found in the village. There is also a large number of records and evidence of Wacton during the medieval period. The round-tower All Saints’ Church was built during this era and to this day is the village’s most prominent landmark.

Today, Wacton has a thriving community with strong links to the neighbouring Long Stratton and also Norwich. The main features of Wacton are its village hall, opened in 2013, which hosts a number of events, including regular coffee mornings, parish meetings, and social clubs.  And it’s common and playground in the centre of the village.

Wacton church Wacton common

If you’re looking to move home and are interested in living in Wacton, we currently have this fantastic 7 bedroom cottage available. For more information on the property, get in touch! We can be reached on 01603 300900 or by email: [email protected]