(Image: NORTHERN ECHO)
A County Durham village sitting beside one of the region's best-known castles has a history stretching back more than 1,000 years.
Staindrop, between Darlington and Barnard Castle, is often associated with neighbouring Raby Castle, which dominates the surrounding landscape from its deer park.
But the village itself contains historic buildings, a large traditional green and a church with Anglo-Saxon origins.
Staindrop Parish Council says the settlement has a medieval linear layout, with stone properties running alongside an extensive village green.
At its heart is St Mary's Church, where parts of the building pre-date the Norman Conquest.
Staindrop's history stretches back before the Normans
St Mary's contains surviving Anglo-Saxon masonry, while the church was expanded and altered repeatedly over later centuries.
Norman arcades were added in the 12th century, with further medieval work following.
The church also has strong links to the Neville family, who were closely associated with nearby Raby Castle.
Inside are Neville monuments, medieval choir stalls and an octagonal font decorated with heraldry.
The church's own history also identifies a medieval screen dating from the 14th century as a rare surviving feature.
Village shaped by Raby Castle connection
Raby Castle stands immediately outside Staindrop and has played a major role in the village's history.
The castle became one of the great northern strongholds of the Neville family before their connection with the estate ended after the Rising of the North in 1569.
It later passed to the Vane family after being bought by Sir Henry Vane the Elder in 1626.
The castle and estate remain closely linked with Staindrop today.
The village's position on the route between Darlington and Teesdale means many motorists pass through on the way towards Barnard Castle and Upper Teesdale.
Large green remains at heart of village
Staindrop's layout has helped it retain much of its historic character.
Stone houses line the village around the green, while local facilities include shops, schools and a pub.
The settlement remains a working community rather than simply a visitor stop for Raby Castle.
Its location also places it close to some of County Durham's best-known attractions.
Read more
'Most desirable' County Durham village once dubbed 'perfect' by BBC
The County Durham village near Darlington that was once a Victorian spa resort
Christmas fans with 'boundless energy' wanted as Raby Castle hiring elves
Barnard Castle lies further west, while Middleton-in-Teesdale, High Force and the wider Durham Dales are within easy reach.
But Staindrop's own history means it stands apart from simply being the village next to Raby Castle.
Its Anglo-Saxon church, medieval layout and long association with two of the region's most prominent historic families give it a story stretching well beyond the castle gates.