Standing at the heart of Stanhope's historic marketplace, the Church of St Thomas is one of County Durham's most remarkable buildings.
It blends centuries of history, religious heritage and unusual treasures that continue to attract visitors to Weardale today.
The Grade II listed church has dominated the skyline of the market town for hundreds of years and remains one of the North Pennines' most significant landmarks.
A church with roots stretching back more than 800 years
While the site is believed to have Saxon origins, much of the church seen today dates from the 12th and 13th centuries.
Historians believe the Normans built the church on earlier foundations, with further additions made over the following centuries.
The north aisle was added during the 13th century and the distinctive west tower followed in the 14th century.
Major restoration work took place in the Victorian era, helping preserve the building for future generations.
Why Stanhope was once one of the richest church livings in England
The church's story is closely linked to Weardale's lead mining industry.
For centuries, the rectors of Stanhope benefited from income connected to the area's rich lead deposits, making the parish one of the wealthiest church livings in England.
Several Bishops of Durham also served as rectors of Stanhope because of its value and importance.
The wealth generated by mining helped shape both the church and the wider community, leaving a legacy that can still be seen throughout Weardale today.
The church's most unusual attraction is outside
One of the biggest talking points is not actually inside the church at all.
In the churchyard stands a fossil tree estimated to be around 250 million years old.
The church sits within the North Pennines National Landscape, an area internationally recognised for its geological significance, making the fossil tree a fitting feature of the site.
Roman and Saxon treasures hidden inside
Visitors stepping through the doors will find a collection of artefacts spanning several eras of British history.
Among the most notable are a Roman altar, a Saxon font and a Frosterley marble font, each providing a glimpse into the area's past.
The Roman altar bears the inscription Deo Soli Invicto, while the church also contains medieval stained glass of national importance incorporated into the Victorian west window.
These features help make St Thomas one of County Durham's most historically significant parish churches.
Read more
County Durham birch misses out on Tree of the Year award
Panel announced as long-running BBC show returns to County Durham and airs tonight
Balaclava ban and anti-yob orders for County Durham towns to combat 'trouble'
Why the Church of St Thomas is worth a visit
For many visitors, St Thomas offers far more than a traditional parish church.
Its combination of Norman architecture, links to Durham's bishops, nationally important stained glass, Roman and Saxon artefacts, and the famous fossil tree make it one of the most fascinating historic sites in County Durham.
Whether you're exploring Weardale's history, tracing family roots or simply discovering hidden gems in the North East, the Church of St Thomas remains one of Stanhope's standout attractions.