The Old Rectory, Houghton le Spring

For more than 600 years, The Old Rectory has been at the centre of life in Houghton-le-Spring and many people pass by the building on their way about town. Our friends at Houghton Heritage Society have amassed a great deal of historical information about various buildings including the Old Rectory. In 1949, the gardens surrounding the building became a public park after being given to the people of Houghton and likewise, there is much support for these outdoor spaces from our “Bloomin’ Marvellous” gardening group. Since 2017, the Acumen Community Buildings Charity has maintained the building – providing a space for community groups and social entrepreneurs to work together to create a vibrant hub and co-working space.