Stiffkey

Stiffkey is situated on the attractive River Stiffkey, surrounded by undulating farmland with a large tidal marsh to the North and direct access to the creeks and extensive sands of this part of the coast. The village is on the main A149 coast road. Although the road is busy in summer, the village and its coastal environment provide a truly lovely place to live in and to visit. It is especially attractive for walkers, birdwatchers and sailors.

There are 160 dwellings, of which a substantial number are second homes or holiday homes. The population in 2001 was 223, but this number increases considerably in summer and over holidays. It is part of the Church’s mission to welcome visitors to the community. Traditional employment was in agriculture, fishing, and bait digging. This has been overtaken by activities connected with tourism and leisure. There is a large camp-site, a flourishing lamp shop and a beauty salon: the general store and post office, the pub and the village hall, which was re-constructed by volunteer labour, provide a strong community infrastructure.

The annual fete attracts great support from residents and visitors, with a strong emphasis on traditional entertainment.

The Parish Church is a 14th Century flint and stone church with a square tower which houses one bell. It is high-roofed with a nave, no side aisles, and a fine chancel which was re-modelled in the 19th Century. It is in a fair state of repair; at present a programme of repairs and renovation is under way. There is a large and attractive churchyard, which is well maintained by voluntary effort. A large part of the churchyard is a conservation area, full of wild flowers.