A Beautiful Simple and Bright Meditative Space –

During the Easter Break I had the privilege to visit, not only Salisbury Cathedral, but also one of Britain’s oldest Saxon Churches situated in the North East of England.  The Church is situated in a little rural village on the outskirts of Bishop Auckland near my hometown of Shildon.  While visiting relatives I decided to visit the church.  The locals have beautifully maintained the church over the years and it is still a place of worship.  Having just visited Salisbury Cathedral the old Saxon Church at Escombe was a stark contrast.  The ornate and ostentatious beauty of Salisbury Cathedral was not evident here.  Instead the interior was a bright, simple yet beautiful meditative space that had a very calming atmosphere.  The atmosphere was also calming in Salisbury Cathedral, but there was something quite special about old Saxon Church.

I took the opportunity to shoot some video of both the interior and the exterior of the church.  Following is a video compilation of both stills and moving images.  I have also compiled a gallery of images that include information signs explaining more about the church and its origins.

The Old Saxon Church at Escombe (Circa 675)

Below is a ‘whistle stop’ tour of the ‘Old Saxon Church’ at Escombe.  Both the beautiful simplicity of the interior and exterior are in start contrast to the ornate beauty of Salisbury Cathedral.  However the church is a calming and peaceful meditative space.

The Old Saxon Church Stills (Including Information Plaques)

Below aid a series of stills from the church.  Included are a variety of information plaques and images containing information about the church.  It is a beautiful historic building and well worth a visit!