All Saints Church in County Durham opens for campers to raise funds

All Saints Church in Muggleswick, County Durham, is set to open its doors to campers as a means to generate funds for its upkeep. The church has been facing financial difficulties due to a declining local population, prompting the need for innovative solutions to secure its future. With a grant of £18,986 from the National Churches Trust, the church plans to upgrade its facilities, including the installation of a new servery and accessible toilet, as well as necessary repairs to the building's roof and structural cracks. The initiative, referred to as 'champing,' will allow visitors to camp overnight at the church, creating a new income stream while still maintaining its role as a place of worship. This makes All Saints the first church in County Durham to offer such accommodation. Churchwardens Helen Barrass and Lynne Bean expressed optimism that the funding has "secured the future" of the beloved church. In addition to camping, the church aims to attract tourists by collaborating with local organizations, including the North Pennines Area of Natural Beauty and the Sanctuary Network Project. Plans include promoting self-guided walks around the local nature reserve and the historic Muggleswick Grange ruins, enhancing the church's appeal as a tourist destination. Built in the 18th century, All Saints Church is situated on a hill with a view of Muggleswick Grange and is part of the Way of Light Northern Saints Trail. The church's graveyard features nine Grade II listed graves, adding historical significance to the site, which the church hopes will draw more visitors and support its financial sustainability.