Please click the link below to download a copy of the Escomb Saxon Church Access Statement.  Escomb Access Statement>>

ACCESS STATEMENT

The congregation of Escomb Saxon Church would very much like to welcome everyone to this historic church. However, as it is an Ancient Monument there are limitations to the changes we can make to the building to ensure full access for all.

Escomb Church is situated at the bottom of a hill in the village of Escomb, on a no-through road with ample parking for cars and coaches directly outside the church. There is a dropped kerb onto the pavement to the left of the church gate. The postcode is DL14 7SY.

Keys to the church and churchyard are available for visitors to collect from No 28 Saxon Green, directly behind the church. They hang on a hook by the front door during hours of daylight.  There is a flat path from the pavement to the front door and the hook holding the keys can be reached from a wheelchair.  A label on the churchyard gate also gives the location of the keys.

Access to the Churchyard and Porch    There is a slope down from the gateway to the path but no steps. Wheelchair users may need a helper.

The path leads to the church porch where there is level entry to the extensive historical / archaeological exhibition.

Entry to the body of the church is down two stone steps, the edges of which are painted white. Due to the narrow nature of the church it is not possible to ramp the steps.  A wheelchair user would not be able to access the interior of the church without help. The churchwardens can arrange to be present to assist entry if notified in advance (Sue on 07909249582 and Gill on 01388 602860).

There is an entry though the north door at the back of the church down only one very shallow step. Although the door is not locked it is bolted and someone would need to be available to open the door from the inside. It would also entail crossing about 20 feet of lawn.

Once inside the church the nave is all on one level with all parts accessible. The light switches are on the wall to the right of the door on entry.

Information leaflets and booklets about the church are for sale near the entry and are in English. There is a safe on the floor by the bookstall and a contactless payment system in the porch. There are translations of the main guidebook in French,German, Dutch,Spanish and Japanese. A large print, English version of this text is also available.

There is a hearing loop in church.

Outside the church the gravel path circles the church so all aspects of the building can be viewed on the level. There are two wooden benches in the churchyard.

The chancel is up one small step but most of the chancel can be viewed from the Nave.

Outside the church the path circles the church so all aspects of the building can be viewed on the level. Part of the path has a thin layer of gravel There are four wooden benches in the churchyard.

Facilities: There is no WC in church and no public conveniences in the village. Church visitors are welcome to use the facilities in the Saxon Inn opposite the church during pub opening hours. Prior permission of the landlord has already been granted. The toilets are fully accessible and entry to them is via the back door of the pub where there are no steps. For further information contact the landlord on 01388 662256.

Transport

A bus can be taken from Bishop Auckland bus station and it stops about 50 yards from the church. Please enquire as bus numbers do change from time to time. The service is hourly. There is ample parking on the road right outside the church gate.

We do hope you are able to enjoy your visit.

July 2025