Heritage Open Days - St Cuthbert’s Catholic Church

About

Visit this simple, peaceful church to rest a while or to view the stunning window by the world-famous Irish stained glass artist Harry Clarke or works by renowned local sculptor Fenwick Lawson.

Completed in 1827 by local architect Ignatius Bonomi, St Cuthbert's Catholic Church is in a part of Durham that was often called 'Popish Elvet' because of the number of Catholic residents. The church is a hidden gem opposite one of Bonomi's other major works - Durham's Crown Courts! Although the church is simple in its architecture, it contains a spectacular stained glass window by the Irish artist Harry Clarke. It is one of his final works and depicts Saints Cuthbert, Bede and William of York together with Blessed Thomas Percy, the 7th Earl of Northumberland, who was executed for treason in 1572 following the Rising of the North three years earlier. There are two medieval wooden effigies together with more contemporary works, such as a reading lectern and a processional cross by Fenwick Lawson. Together, these works help to make the simple space beautiful.