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.
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 19th century stained glass.