Friends Meeting House
Darlington, County Durham
Although The Religious Society of Friends (Quakers) built a Meeting House in Darlington in 1678 (when they bought the plot for ’35), the present structure was not completed until about 1846.
With its cathedral like in proportions and presence, St Cuthbert's epitomises late 12th to early 13th century Early English style, with extensive use of wall arcading to frame both internal and external windows. In the 14th century, the aisle roofs were raised and new windows inserted, and the belfry and impressive octagonal spire were added over the central tower.
The church, also known as the Lady of the North, is richly decorated at the east end but is quite austere, though well proportioned, in the nave. The masonry is dressed local sandstone, and most of the main roofs have medieval oak supports.
Outstanding features include 15th century chancel stalls with misericords, a 14th century font with a 17th century 'Bishop Cosin' canopy, and a fine collection of Victorian stained glass. The font is thought to be original, with one of the largest font covers (1662) to be found in a parish church. It was extensively, but sympathetically restored by George Gilbert Scott in the 1860s.