St Michael & All Angels Houghton-le-Spring
A historic church with a cathedral-like interior, ancient roots, and a vibrant community spirit in Houghton-le-Spring.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience unique film nights & community gatherings
St Michael & All Angels Houghton-le-Spring
Best Time
Experience unique film nights & community gatherings
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic church with a cathedral-like interior, ancient roots, and a vibrant community spirit in Houghton-le-Spring.
"Spectacular interior, rich history, and a truly welcoming community hub."
Free Parking Available
Park conveniently across the road for free. :car:
Explore History Boards
Learn about the site's ancient past and Bernard Gilpin. :scroll:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Spectacular Cathedral-Style Interior
Main Sanctuary
Be awed by the vast, cathedral-like interior, offering a truly breathtaking and spiritual atmosphere.
Bernard Gilpin's Tomb
Church Grounds
Visit the final resting place of Bernard Gilpin, the revered 'Apostle of the North', a significant historical figure.
Medieval History & Excavations
Church Floor
Discover the site's ancient roots with visible archaeological excavations from 2008 and historical information boards.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Discover Houghton's Rich History
Community Hub & Events
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free Parking Available
Park conveniently across the road for free. :car:
Explore History Boards
Learn about the site's ancient past and Bernard Gilpin. :scroll:
Check Event Schedule
Don't miss film screenings or community drop-ins. :calendar:
A Welcoming Community
Experience a warm welcome, especially if attending services. :heart:
Tips
from all over the internet
Free Parking Available
Park conveniently across the road for free. :car:
Explore History Boards
Learn about the site's ancient past and Bernard Gilpin. :scroll:
Check Event Schedule
Don't miss film screenings or community drop-ins. :calendar:
A Welcoming Community
Experience a warm welcome, especially if attending services. :heart:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the spectacular, cathedral-like interior and the rich historical significance of St Michael & All Angels, noting its ancient roots and the tomb of Bernard Gilpin. The church is also lauded as a welcoming community hub, hosting events and offering a warm atmosphere for services and visitors alike. Some minor points of feedback relate to the need for clearer event schedules.
"Very interesting place to visit....really spectacular interior- almost Cathedral style ..lovely team working inside."
Michael Laybourn
"beautiful church. attended a christening here"
all1
"Visited for a christening, lovely inside, very large and great reading the history boards of the old site it was built on. Parking across the road is free."
Christopher Hughes
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The church is easily accessible in Houghton-le-Spring. Many visitors mention convenient free parking available directly across the road, making it straightforward to reach by car.
While specific public transport routes aren't detailed in the provided information, Houghton-le-Spring is part of the wider Sunderland and Durham areas, which are generally well-served by buses. Checking local bus timetables would be advisable.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to St Michael & All Angels Houghton-le-Spring is free. Visitors can explore the church and its historical features without charge.
Specific opening hours are not detailed, but the church is accessible for services and events. It's recommended to check for any scheduled events or contact the church directly for precise visiting times.
Yes, the church holds regular services and welcomes visitors to join. The community is described as very welcoming and inclusive.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find a spectacular, cathedral-style interior. There are also history boards detailing the old site, and a glass section revealing archaeological excavations from 2008.
Absolutely! History boards are available throughout the building, offering insights into its long past, which stretches back to before Christianity arrived in the Isles.
This site has been a place of worship since before Christianity came to the Isles. It also houses the tomb of Bernard Gilpin, the 'Apostle of the North', a significant historical figure.
Keep an eye out for the glass section in the floor that showcases archaeological excavations from 2008, offering a glimpse into the site's ancient past.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the church itself may offer refreshments during events, nearby options exist. TikTok videos mention eateries like Fabio's Bistro in Houghton-le-Spring, suggesting a local food scene.
Yes, the church has hosted events like film screenings that included friendly welcomes with tea and coffee beforehand, indicating they do offer refreshments.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted for personal use in many churches, but it's always best to be respectful of ongoing services or events. The stunning interior makes for great photos.
The expansive, cathedral-style interior offers many dramatic angles. The historical details and the tomb of Bernard Gilpin also present unique photographic opportunities.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parking is conveniently located across the road, making arrival and departure easier with children.
🏛️ History Buffs & Heritage Seekers
Don't miss the archaeological displays visible through the glass floor, showcasing findings from excavations. The detailed history boards throughout the church provide ample information to delve into the site's evolution over centuries. The cathedral-style interior itself is a testament to architectural history and spiritual devotion.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Time: The History of St Michael & All Angels
Adding to its historical significance, the church is the resting place of Bernard Gilpin, often referred to as the 'Apostle of the North'. His tomb is a key point of interest for those with a historical bent. Furthermore, archaeological excavations conducted in 2008 unearthed significant findings, and a special glass section in the church floor allows visitors to view these discoveries, providing a tangible connection to the site's ancient foundations.
The church also serves as a modern community hub. It hosts various events, including free film showings like 'The Old Oak', demonstrating its role in contemporary local life. The Space4 Community Drop-in Centre, based in the library on Newbottle Street, is also associated with the church, highlighting its commitment to serving the wider community.
Experiencing the Community Spirit
The church actively engages with the local area through various initiatives. They have hosted events such as free film screenings, offering a friendly welcome with refreshments like tea and coffee beforehand. This demonstrates a commitment to providing accessible cultural experiences for the community.
Beyond events, the church supports the wider community through initiatives like the Space4 Community Drop-in Centre. This center, located in the local library, provides a valuable resource for residents. The overall ethos appears to be one of genuine desire to serve all God's people without expectation, making St Michael & All Angels a true cornerstone of Houghton-le-Spring.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit