Medieval Silksworth

Silksworth, situated in Bishopwearmouth parish but in the hands of the Priory of Durham, was held by a number of prominent medieval families. Principal amongst these were the FitzMarmadukes, lords of Horden and holders of considerable estates in Durham, who held the lordship until the early 14th century. In the early 15th century the estate fell into the hands of the Middleton family, of Belsay in Northumberland. (See also Leading Families in Medieval Sunderland)