About Mainsforth and Bishop Middleham

Mainsforth

Mainsforth, a small village within the parish, has a history rooted in agriculture and rural life. Historically, it was a collection of farms and cottages, with Mainsforth Hall standing as a significant landmark. The hall was home to the Surtees family, including Robert Surtees, a renowned historian and antiquary of County Durham. Sir Walter Scott, the famous author, was a frequent visitor to the hall and even planted an oak tree on the property. Mainsforth Colliery, active from 1872 to 1968, played a role in the industrial era, connecting the village to the coal mining heritage of the region. The village’s name is of Old English origin, with “ford” referring to a crossing point, though the first element remains uncertain.

Bishop Middleham

Bishop Middleham, the larger village in the parish, has a rich and varied history. It was once a favored residence of the Bishops of Durham, with a castle and deer park that served as a retreat. The castle, now only visible as earthworks, was an important site during the medieval period. The village itself dates back to at least the 12th century, with its church, St. Michael’s, standing as a historical centerpiece. The area has evidence of earlier settlements, including Neolithic and Bronze Age artifacts, as well as Roman objects, suggesting its long-standing significance. The Boldon Book of 1183 recorded the village as having 32 households, highlighting its importance in the medieval economy.

Both Mainsforth and Bishop Middleham reflect the broader historical tapestry of County Durham, blending agricultural roots, industrial heritage, and medieval significance. Let me know if you’d like to explore any specific aspect further!