About Us

St Peter's, Monkwearmouth is one of the oldest churches in Britain, where Christians have gathered for more than 1300 years. This is a place of worship and prayer, ministry and mission.

St Peter’s was built in 674AD by Benedict Biscop, a pioneering monk who was given a grant of land by the Northumbrian King, Egfrith. Benedict built an important complex of church and monastic buildings in the Roman style, probably on the site of a settlement founded by Hilda of Whitby.

St Peter's was originally built as part of a monastery, but it is now a parish church.

Much of the interior dates from a major restoration carried out in the 1870s, though medieval stonework is visible at the south side of the chancel arch. Following an arson attack in 1984, there were more changes during which the nave sanctuary and exhibition area were built, the chancel ceiling was repainted, and a fine Copeman-Hart organ was installed.

While you're here, why not visit our amazing coffee shop and restaurant!
Bede's Bakehouse is open Mon, Wed and Fri,  10.30 am - 2.30 pm. Why not pop in and try some of our delicious food and enjoy honest, simple hospitality on an historic monastic site.  

Visitor Opening times for St. Peter’s Church 

Tour Guides are available during these times:

Monday - Friday 10.30 am - 2.30 pm  - Please note we are not open on bank holidays.
Saturday - Closed at the moment - unless pre-booked by contacting the Parish Office on 0191 5160135
Sunday - not open for tours

Groups of 10 or over must be booked via the Parish Office

For more details about anything going on at St. Peter's, please contact the Parish Office, open Mon-Fri, 9.00 am - 12.00 pm on Tel:  0191-516 0135. Please note during August the office is only open from 9 am - 11 am.