The 'Lighthouse' Church
Article supplied by:
Paul Williams
Our Grade I listed Church of St. Mary dates back to the 13th century, but it had a very modern job for centuries. To help sailors navigate the treacherous Bristol Channel, the church tower was once painted bright white so it could be seen from miles out at sea as a coastal landmark.
The Shipwreck of the Nornen
If you walk the beach at low tide, you’ll see the wooden ribs of the SS Nornen. In 1897, this Norwegian barque ran aground during a massive gale. In a legendary local rescue, the Burnham lifeboat crew saved all ten men on board—and the ship’s dog! You can actually see the original ship's figurehead today in our Village Hall.
Our "Pig-Proof" Heritage
Berrow is home to rare, circular stone pigsties (like the one on Barton Road). Built with a "beehive" corbelled roof, these were designed to be indestructible. Because they have no corners, a strong pig couldn't "root" or dig its way out through the walls. These are so rare in England that they are now Grade II listed historical treasures.
The "White Rajah" Connection
A world leader was born right here in Berrow! Charles Brooke, the second "White Rajah" of Sarawak (now part of Malaysia), was born in the village in 1829. He went on to rule a kingdom in Southeast Asia, but his story began in our corner of Somerset.
A Rare Wilderness
The "Ghosts" of the Rebellion
Local legend says that in the 1930s, during work on the site of the 15th-century Old Court House, two skeletons were found with dislocated necks. This added weight to the old story that the infamous Judge Jeffreys once held court here after the Monmouth Rebellion, and two local rebels were hanged on a gibbet that once stood at the "Berrow Triangle."
Our Berrow Dunes aren't just for walking—they are a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
They host one of the most diverse floras in the country, including the incredibly rare Lizard Orchid. In the winter, the dunes also provide a sanctuary for rare birds like the Jack Snipe.
