Needham is a South Norfolk village located in the picturesque Waveney Valley with a history dating back to Roman times and beyond. A Victorian church school built in 1873 purchased by the village in 1960 with funds raised to celebrate the Queen’s coronation is now a Village Hall popular with local societies and activity groups. The Red Lion public house is another social centre.
The mediaeval parish church of St Peter features a characteristic Norfolk round tower. Revenue from ‘Town Lands Trust’ granted to the parish in the 17th century is still administered as a four hundred year old charity for the benefit of the church and residents.
The Parish Council is made up of seven residents from the village. Although the lowest tier of Local Government it is successful in addressing local issues and passing on matters of concern to the District, County and Highway Authorities. It has taken on responsibility for many aspects of looking after the village environment including ensuring local footpaths are kept clear for walkers and paying for dog bins to be emptied. It also maintains the children’s play area, the Nook, behind the Village Hall. It meets once every two months and is always preceded by a public forum where residents are welcome to bring matters that concern them to the attention of Parish Councillors.
The village is well served by the nearby market town of Harleston with a weekly market and a variety of independent traders.