St Margaret's Church, Durham

St Margaret's Church is an active parish church on Crossgate in the city of Durham, in North-East England. It is Grade I listed, which places it among the most important historic buildings in the country, and substantial parts of the structure date from the 12th century.

What is St Margaret's Church known for?

The church is valued for its compact yet spacious interior and for a pleasing asymmetry that shows how the building grew in stages over several centuries. Instead of a single, uniform design, visitors see layers of work added at different times, which makes it a rewarding stop for anyone interested in medieval architecture.

How old is the church?

The core of the fabric is usually dated to around 1150. The original building had a nave, a south aisle and a chancel. Late in the 12th century a north aisle was added, and this is the main source of the uneven, asymmetrical layout inside. In the 14th century the south aisle was remodelled and higher windows were inserted above the nave. In the 15th century a Lady Chapel was built south of the chancel.

Why was it built on Crossgate?

St Margaret's began as a chapel of ease for the residents of Crossgate, who otherwise belonged to the parish of St Oswald. Having their own place of worship spared them the walk to the mother church. It became an independent parochial chapel in 1431, the same year the churchyard was consecrated so that burials could take place on site.

What is the story of the font?

In 1343 the priory removed the baptismal font after a dispute. The bishop ordered it returned, while warning that parishioners had no formal right to use it. Over time the residents gained the rights to marry, to be churched and to baptise at St Margaret's, a gradual step towards full parish status.

Who looks after the church today?

The Dean and Chapter of Durham, successors to the medieval Prior, remain patrons of the living. Until the 19th century the parish covered a wide area, including Crossgate Moor, Milburngate and the Framwellgate area, reaching as far north as Finchale.

Frequently asked questions

Is St Margaret's Church still in use? Yes. It is an active parish church of the Church of England.

Where is it? On Crossgate, in the city of Durham, in North-East England.

Is it a listed building? Yes, it is Grade I listed.

What should I look for inside? Pay attention to the asymmetry of the interior, which reflects the later north aisle, the remodelled south aisle and the Lady Chapel added in the 15th century.

Why is it called a parish church if it began as a chapel? It started as a chapel of ease under St Oswald's parish and became an independent parochial chapel in 1431. Its parish rights grew gradually after that.