History of Penshaw

By Ian Flaws

The village of Penshaw lies in open countryside on the outskirts of Sunderland, the biggest city in both size and population between Leeds and Edinburgh. On top of a hill just outside the village is its famous monument which dominates the skyline and is visible from miles around.
Penshaw Monument was built in memory of John George Lambton, the Earl of Durham in 1844.
The Earl of Durham died on the 28th of July 1840, aged 49. The monument was built with money raised by public subscription. The monument was acquired by the National Trust as a gift from the 5th Earl of Durham in 1939.
Penshaw monument is approximately 100 foot long by 50 ft wide and 70 feet high
The Earl of Durham held the offices of Lord Privy Seal, Ambassador Extraordinary, Minister at the Court of St. Petersburg and was the first Governor-General of the province of Canada.
The Penshaw Monument stands 136 metres ( 149 yards ) above sea level.
The Doric columns are solid except one which contains a spiral staircase providing access to the upper walkways.
The staircase is no longer open to the public.