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Heritage is all around us. Be immersed in the local heritage of North East England by visiting these six fascinating places on the Northern Saints Trails.
You must add this place to your walking itinerary. A remarkable building from the 7th century, it is one of only three complete Anglo-Saxon churches in Britain! Before entering, you should look out for two sundials. To the right of the porch, this sundial is thought to be the oldest in the country, showing both a beast and a fishtailed serpent! The three marks on the sundial show the three key times when the early monks would worship. Inside, try to find the wall carving of the Tree of Life to the left of the altar.
If locked, a key is available for your visit (from 28 Saxon Green - behind church). The key is available all year round 7 days a week during hours of daylight (9-6 during summer and 9-4 during winter).
Address: Escomb Saxon Church, Saxon Green, Escomb, Bishop Auckland, County Durham DL14 7SY
Here you have reached a significant site of past ship-to-shore combat. The museum preserves the only First World War battlefield in the UK. You can learn about the story of the Bombardment of the Hartlepools on 16th December 1914, when the guns of the Heugh Battery and Lighthouse Battery fought against the German Navy. It was the first time that British civilians came under fire since the war had started. You will also find out about the part played by the Heugh Battery in the Second World War. Take your time exploring the collection of military artefacts and artillery pieces.
Address: Heugh Battery Museum, Moor Terrace, Headland, Hartlepool, Cleveland TS24 0PS
Newbiggin Lifeboat Station
You probably haven’t thought much about lifeboat houses but on The Way of the Sea you will pass the oldest operational one of its kind in the United Kingdom – Newbiggin Lifeboat Station. It was founded by the Duke of Northumberland in 1851 and the following year was taken over by the Royal National Lifeboat Institute. Currently in use is the Atlantic 85, an inshore lifeboat which is 8.5 metres. Pop in on a Sunday for a visit and browse of the shop.
Open on Sundays 10am-1pm
Address: Newbiggin Lifeboat Station, Old Sandridge, Newbiggin Bay, Newbiggin, NE64 6DU
This is where you’ll find not only an Anglo-Saxon Farm and Village but also the Bede Museum. Saint Bede spent most of his life as a monk at the twin monastery Wearmouth-Jarrow and is one of the most important scholars of the Anglo-Saxon period. The Village and Farm excellently depict life during the era of Bede and the animals chosen are meant to best resemble the breeds that he would have known. It was Saint Bede who wrote the Life of Cuthbert in both verse and prose.
Address: Jarrow Hall, Jarrow, South Tyneside, NE32 3DY
Dukesfield Arches
Nestled in the tranquil valley of Devil’s Water, spot two gothic-style arches. The Dukesfield Arches are remnants of the Dukesfield lead smelting mill. The mill was in operation from around 1666 until the 19th century. The lead ore was transported from mines at Allendale and Weardale to the mill and taken on to markets in Tyneside.
Address: Between Slaley and Whitley Chapel in woodland on the banks of the Devil’s Water in, Hexham, NE46 1SG
Who doesn’t love a good market? As you follow the walking route, take the opportunity to visit Grainger Market. Designed by John Dobson, it opened in 1835 and at the time was Europe’s largest covered market. Step inside to soak up the enticing buzz and charm as you meander your way around the stalls. You will even come across the smallest branch of Marks & Spencer, called Marks & Spencer’s Original Penny Bazar.
Address: Grainger Market, Grainger Street, Newcastle-upon-Tyne NE1 5QQ
Make sure you follow the Northern Saints Trails Instagram account for more inspiring places to explore!
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