The Saxon Church, Escomb in County Durham
N 54° 39.961 W 001° 42.489
30U E 583320 N 6058393
This beautiful ancient Saxon Church is set in the centre of the small village of Escomb a few miles from Bishop Auckland in County Durham.
Waymark Code: WM6TFE
Location: United Kingdom
Date Posted: 07/18/2009
Views: 2
It is not known for certain when the church at Escomb was built or by whom. The first written reference dates from the tenth century when the village was mortgaged by the Bishop of Durham. However various architectural features and archeological evidence suggest a much earlier date of 670 to 690. Most agree that it could not have been constructed much later than the end of the seventh century. This church belongs to the earliest period of Northumbrian Christianity.
Some parts of the building are constructed from Roman stonework possibly from the nearby Roman fort of Vinovium. It is just possible that the church is a remodelled roman building. The walls of the church are very thick which makes the building very quiet inside and together with the white interior make the inside very pleasant.
During Victorian times the church was allowed to fall into decay when a new church was built further up the hill. The Rev T.E Lord recognised the historic and spiritual value and began the long restoration. The Victorian church has long since been demolished but after thirteen centuries the old church is still going and much loved by the villagers of Escomb.
Date the Church was built, dedicated or cornerstone laid: 01/01/0670
Age of Church building determined by?: Other reliable source
If denomination of Church is not part of the name, please provide it here: Church of England
If Church is open to the public, please indicate hours: From: 9:00 AM To: 8:00 PM
If Church holds a weekly worship service and "all are welcome", please give the day of the week: Sunday
Indicate the time that the primary worship service is held. List only one: 11:00 AM
Street address of Church:
Escomb Church
Escomb
Bishop Auckland, County Durham England
DL14
Primary website for Church or Historic Church Building: [Web Link]
Secondary Website for Church or Historic Church Building: Not listed
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