Situated about six miles northeast of Durham, between Hetton-le-Hole and Newbottle in County Durham in the north east of England, lies the small former mining town of Houghton-le-Spring. The town is first mentioned in the Boldon Book in 1183, as ‘Hoctana’. Another ancient document dataed 1220 descrbes the town as ‘Houghton Sprynges’. The name Houghton is derived from Old English, the word ‘hoh’ meaning hill and ‘tun’ meaning settlement, which in turn became ‘town’. Owned at one time by Albreda, widow of Lord Henry Spring in 1311, it is thought in some circles that ‘le-spring’ was added to indicate his ownership. A more plausible explanation is that it is due to the medicinial springs which flow from the surrounding limestone rocks, making it fit with the Roman tradition in which ‘le’ is taken to mean ‘in’ or ‘within’ as used is Chester-le-Street, Witton-le-Wear, Hetton-le-Hole and others. The parish church dates back to Norman times, dedicated to St.Michael & Alll Angels. The churchyard contains the remains of Bernard Gilpin, known as the Apostle of the North. He was Archdeacon of Durham and later became rector at Houghton-le--Spring in 1557. At that time, Houghton-le-Spring was one of the largest parishes in England
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Places to Stay near Houghton Le Spring
Chilton Country Pub & Hotel (0.97 miles)
Highfield Hotel (1.29 miles)
For whatever reason you have chosen to visit the North East, you will find that the Highfield Hotel is ideally situated for all amenities.As a base for your holiday you ... More
Lumley Castle Hotel (3.23 miles)
The origins of this magnificently preserved castle go back to the 9th century, although the main building dates from 14th century. Sympathetic refurbishment over the ages has transformed it into an international hotel offering an ... More | visit website
Ramside Hall Hotel & Golf Club (3.69 miles)
The four star quality Ramside Hall is set in a 220 acre estate with 27 hole championship golf course. It is situated at only 2 miles from the City of Durham ... More
The Lambton Arms Hotel (4.06 miles)
Campanile Hotel - Washington (4.27 miles)
Ideally located just of junction 64 of the A1(M), the Campanile Washington offer excellent value for money. All our comfortably furnished rooms have en suite facilities, including TV (with sky channel), direct ... More
Premier Inn Newcastle (Washington) (4.46 miles)
Holiday Inn Washington (4.46 miles)
Between historic Durham, Sunderland and Newcastle, the Holiday Inn Washington hotel is ideally located in Tyne and Wear, just off the A1M junction 64. This long-established hotel is well known for its friendly staff and ... More | visit website
Moor End Bed & Breakfast (4.56 miles)
Moor End House Bed and Breakfast is non-smoking establishment with 1 family and 4 twin rooms. It has a 4 diamond rating from the English Tourism Council. ... More | visit websiteBrit Quote: |
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