Docking is a substantial village in north-western Norfolk, a focal point for services in much of the area and a meeting place for most of the various roads in that corner of Norfolk. The village is centred around three roads leading east, west and north from the church, the south side of the village is dominated by the enclosures of Docking Hall.

St Mary's church is large, a reflection of the population centred in the nucleus surrounded by high broad fields. The church had an extensive renovation in 1838 which masks the earlier features, The fabric, however, shows signs of the typical Perpendicular 14th century origin that is normal for Norfolk churches.