Easington, a pre-Norman settlement on the north-east coast, first documented in 900-915, gave its name to both the Deanery and the Ward. Easington Ward, one of the four wards of the Durham Diocese, stretched from the Wear to Hart and the original parish took in many of the surrounding villages. It is one of County Durham's 'green villages', medieval in origin. ST. MARY'S CHURCH and SEATON HOLME form the core of an ancient village layout, built in four rows facing a square green.

In 1991, an early Anglo-Saxon cemetery was found at Andrew's Hill, which proves earlier occupation of the area. Easington was both the ecclesiastical and administrative centre of the area. With the coming of the collieries and the rush of miners to the area, enlarging settlements needed their own churches and the living was not so prosperous as the parish became smaller.

The Rector of Easington, from 1256 to 1832, was also an Archdeacon of Durham. Many of these Archdeacons, moved into high positions to become Cardinals and Bishops. The most notable was Robert de Geneva, who became Pope Clement VII in 1376 or as some said the 'Anti-Pope'. Anthony Bek, the Soldier Bishop, was

Secretary to King Edward I and travelled the world as a statesman and negotiator. Bernard Gilpin, the Apostle of the North, resigned the living of Easington and found fame in Houghton. Also of interest is the Reverend Henry George Liddell who links us to both ALICE IN WONDERLAND and the BOWES-LYON family. A list of the Rectors is displayed in the church.

The 12th century church of St. Mary's stands on the hill overlooking Easington village green and can be seen for miles around. Considerably altered throughout its life it is said to be a unique example of various styles of English architecture. The church comprises of a Norman West Tower, Early English Nave with 4-bay arcades, windows of Perpendicular style and an Early English chancel. Pew ends and pulpit are 17th century, the work of James Clement, designer of the oak choir stalls in Durham Cathedral.

Easington's first church register dates back to 1571, included is a copy of the Solemn League and Covenant signed in 1644.

This is only one of two extant copies in the Diocese of Durham. The Church is open to visitors from April to September - for availability Tel. 0191 5272115.