Langham

The village of Langham has a central core old cottages and farm buildings towards the west end of which stands the Vicarage and the church. On either side of this linear development of the village is one Council housing estate and two private estates. The village has its Post Office cum mini-store, a successful and well run State Primary school, a Parish room - the centre for a variety of village activities, social and official and a Public House with dining facilities. The school is very popular and draws children from many of surrounding villages, having over 80 children.

Langham is famous for its connection with Captain Marryat, who lies buried in the churchyard. The old manor where he lived is now occupied by a small group of Carmelite (RC) nuns - an enclosed order, though contact is maintained through occasional village activities. The population of Langham in 2004 is 405 of whom approximately 70 are under the age of 18 and 40% of the remaining adults are retired. Of c. 209 houses in the village 40 are holiday or "second homes".

The main industry is agriculture with several large farms surrounding the village. The village is essentially a commuter village. Most "incomers" are people from professional backgrounds, who are accepted by the local residents and contribute much to the many and varied activities which take place.

There is a biennial Street Fair, which provides a welcome source of income divided among the Church, the Parish Room, the Playing field and the School.

Among the many activities, which take place during a village year are the Book Club, Poetry Reading Group, a painting class, Yoga group, Indoor Bowling club and a Ladybirds Group. In addition there is a voluntary car driving group run under the auspices of the WRVS providing transport for those who need to attend medical appointments or the nearby Glaven Caring Centre.

The Parish Church is mainly 14th century but retains a 13th century font. It was restored in 1868. It contains interesting items of stained glass, in particular the Burne-Jones window from the Morris studio, and the west end window from the Kempe studio. In recent years the south aisle roof has been repaired and leaded and the interior re-wired to provide more efficient heating and lighting.