St Mary and St Cuthbert, Chester-le-Street

St Mary and St Cuthbert is a stone church in Chester-le-Street with a prominent bell tower built in 1409. The building stands on the site of a former Roman fort near the River Wear.

The Lindisfarne community arrived in 883 seeking refuge from Viking raids and brought the remains of Saint Cuthbert with them. The site later became significant as a place where early English scholars carried out their written work.

The church stands at a location central to early English written culture. Visitors can today experience the physical connection to the scholarly works that were created within these walls.

The church is accessible from the outside and holds regular services. Visitors should check opening times in advance, as the building functions as an active parish church.

The attached Ankers House Museum displays medieval artifacts that reveal the lives of religious recluses. This collection offers a rare window into the daily experience of these secluded communities.

Location: County Durham

Inception: 11 century

Website: http://maryandcuthbert.org.uk

GPS coordinates: 54.85594,-1.57197

Latest update: December 9, 2025 18:45