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Mid-way between Norwich and Kings Lynn, Walsingham became a major centre of pilgrimage in the eleventh century, following a vision of the Virgin Mary to Saxon noblewoman, Richeldis de Faverches. A priory was built on the site, which grew in importance until its destruction in the Dissolution of the Monasteries by Henry VIII in 1539
Since 1900 Anglican, Roman Catholic and Orthodox Marian shrines have been restored in Walsingham, and pilgimages are held through the summer months. The Anglican National pilgrimage takes place on Spring Bank Holiday (the Monday following the last Sunday in May).