St Mary and St Cuthbert, Chester-le-Street

Chester-le-Street, a charming town in County Durham, England, is home to one of the most historically significant churches in the region: St Mary and St Cuthbert. This Church of England parish church has been a beacon of spiritual and cultural heritage for over 1100 years. With its ancient roots, architectural splendor, and rich history, the church is a must-visit for anyone exploring the North East of England.

The Origins of St Mary and St Cuthbert

The story of St Mary and St Cuthbert begins with the monks of Lindisfarne, who fled Viking raids in 875, carrying with them the revered relics of St Cuthbert. After seven years of wandering, they settled in Chester-le-Street in 883. The site they chose was the old Roman fort of Concangis, providing both a strategic location and some measure of protection. Here, they built a wooden church dedicated to St Mary and St Cuthbert, which served as a cathedral for the diocese stretching from Teesside to Lothian.

For over a century, this community thrived, becoming a significant center of Christianity. The church housed the Lindisfarne Gospels, which were translated into Old English by Aldred between 947 and 968, making them the oldest surviving English translation of the Gospels. This period of prosperity lasted until renewed Viking raids in 995 forced the monks to move St Cuthbert's relics to Durham, where they eventually built the magnificent Durham Cathedral.

The Church Building Through the Ages

The original wooden church was replaced by a stone structure in 1056. The oldest parts of the current building date back to this period, including the walls of the chancel and the two largest pillars near the center of the nave. Over the centuries, the church has undergone numerous extensions and renovations, reflecting the changing architectural styles and needs of its congregation.

In 1267, the nave, lower part of the tower, and east wall were added. The church became a collegiate church in 1286, housing a dean, seven canons, five chaplains, and three deacons. An anchorage was added around 1383, which now serves as the Ankers House Museum. The 158-feet spire, added in 1409, is a prominent feature of the church, along with three bells, one of which dates back to the same period and is still in use today.

The Anchorage and Ankers House Museum

The anchorage attached to the church is one of the few surviving examples in England and is considered the most complete of its kind. It was created by blocking off one corner of the church in the late 14th century, with an additional room added in the 16th century. From 1383 to 1547, it was occupied by six anchorites, who were walled in for life and could watch services through a squint into the church. The anchorage now houses the Ankers House Museum, one of the smallest museums in the UK, showcasing the conditions in which the anchorites lived and containing Roman, Anglo-Saxon, and medieval artifacts found on the site.

Notable Features and Treasures

The church's interior is a treasure trove of historical artifacts and architectural features. The Lumley family effigies, donated by John Lumley in 1595, lie along the north wall and are a significant highlight. The south porch, added in 1742, and the Lambton family pew, installed in 1829, are notable additions reflecting the contributions of local families to the church's upkeep and development.

In 1862, major restorations were undertaken, including the installation of an organ in 1865. To mark the church's millennium in 1883, a screen was installed in the chancel, along with other alterations. The church was further enhanced in 1927 with a reredos, panelling, and a bishop's throne by Sir Charles Nicholson, and three panels depicting the Journey of St Cuthbert's body by his brother Archibald Keightley Nicholson.

The Bells of St Mary and St Cuthbert

The church's belfry, dating back over 600 years, originally housed three bells. In 1883, a new ring of six bells was cast by John Taylor & Co of Loughborough, with two of the original bells being melted down and included in the new ring. Two additional bells were added in 1908, bringing the total to eight, hung for change ringing. One of the original bells from 1409 still survives and is used as a service bell, recognized for its national historic importance. The bells are rung before services on Sundays, with practice sessions held on Friday evenings.

A Living Heritage

St Mary and St Cuthbert is not just a historical monument; it is a living, breathing part of the Chester-le-Street community. The church continues to serve as a place of worship, a center for community activities, and a custodian of the town's rich heritage. Visitors can explore the church, attend services, and learn about its fascinating history through guided tours and the Ankers House Museum.

In conclusion, a visit to St Mary and St Cuthbert in Chester-le-Street offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience over a millennium of history. From its origins as a wooden shrine for St Cuthbert's relics to its current status as a Grade I listed building, the church stands as a testament to the enduring faith and resilience of the community it serves.