Escomb church dates from the 7th century and exhibits typically Anglo Saxon features with a simple footprint, massive cornerstones (quoins) and a lofty nave. It is the oldest, most complete, church in England. Much of its building stone was taken from the Roman fort at Binchester and its walls contain many random inscriptions made by Roman chisels. By the 19th century, the church which is dedicated to St. John the Evangelist, was run down and came close to being lost altogether.