The parish of Happisburgh lies on Norfolk's eastern coast, an area sitting on low cliffs of soft sands and clays that is rapidly eroding as the sea advances. Happisburgh lies some 7 mile east of the market town of North Walsham and 4 north of the smaller town of Stalham. The B1159 road running north from the latter peters out a mile to Happisburgh's west. The parish was mixed in its economy, whilst coastal the lack of any natural harbour along this stretch of Norfolk limited fishing and marine activities to what could be achieved by pulling up vessels onto the beach for landing, as a consequence Happisburgh was still dominated by arable farming, the sandy soils providing easy working for cereals, beet and oil seed. Today Happisburgh is more noted for tourism and beach activities, its fine sandy beach offering rest & relaxation to many and supporting the local businesses with their cash. Sadly Happisburgh is, today, in some danger from erosion, the cliffline, here almost at its lowest before vanishing into dunes to the south, is retreating at speed and several metres have been lost over recent decades including some properties. No mention of Happisburgh is complete without highlighting its iconic candy-striped lighthouse, a landmark for miles around the village as well as out to sea.

St Mary's church sits at the northern end of the village tucked into a side street, Church Street, off the coastal road running through. The church is notable for its tower, designed as a shipping mark and standing 110 feet high, both facts sadly made it a target for bombing in World war 2 sustaining some damage. The church outwardly appears to be entirely typical Perpendicular but internal evidence shows the chancel having been commenced, at least, during the prior Decorated period. Later restorations have altered its appearance to the Perpendicular style to match the remainder. The main body of the church seems almost swamped by the height of the western tower, the nave and chancel being relatively low in height by comparison. The clerestory, designed to lighten the nave, is unusual in having an eastern window overlooking the chancel roof. The best approach is along Church Street from the south where tower and gates stand in full glory ahead of you and some parking can usually be found, away from the summer months. The churchyard is extensive and essentially bare of photographic obstacles.