Ever thought about the hidden stories held within Durham, England’s ancient walls? This city, located in North England, is a real treasure. It’s home to the stunning Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle, rich in history and natural beauty. But why is Durham so special? Join us to discover the best things to do in Durham. This city will captivate you and make you want to explore more.
Key Takeaways
- Explore the iconic Durham Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a rich religious history.
- Discover the fascinating history of Durham Castle, once the residence of powerful Prince Bishops.
- Enjoy a scenic stroll along the River Wear, taking in the stunning views of the city’s landmarks.
- Immerse yourself in the culture and history of the region at the Beamish Museum and Durham University.
- Venture out to nearby natural wonders like the Penshaw Monument, Bowlees Visitor Centre, and High Force Waterfall.
Explore the Iconic Durham Cathedral
In Durham’s heart, the iconic cathedral stands for history and faith. It’s where St. Cuthbert rests, the North’s patron saint. For both visitors and locals, it’s a special spot.
The Treasures of St. Cuthbert
The cathedral celebrates St. Cuthbert’s life. He became a bishop after leading a quiet life. His coffin’s journey here shows his lasting importance.
Venerable Bede’s Tomb
The cathedral is home to Bede’s tomb. This Anglo-Saxon scholar shaped English history. His work on time is still used today.
The Cloisters
The cloisters are famous, seen in movies like Harry Potter. They add to the cathedral’s charm.
The Sanctuary Knocker
A special feature is the Sanctuary Knocker on the North door. Long ago, it helped those in trouble. They could find shelter for a limited time.
The Neville Screen
The Neville Screen shows the family’s influence. They won a significant battle and were highly respected. Their monument stands strong.
Stained Glass Windows
The cathedral has remarkable stained glass. Some pieces are over 700 years old. It’s a colorful, peaceful sight to see.
The Highest Cathedral Throne
The bishop’s throne is a bit taller than the Pope’s, they say. It’s a result of a unique competition between two churches. Legend has it that the Pope’s seat height was measured so Durham could build a slightly taller one.
Discover Durham Castle and Its Rich History
Perched on a little hill by the River Wear, Durham Castle is a standout in this city. It was built in 1072 as a Norman Castle. For years, it was the home of the Prince Bishop. However, in 1832, the bishop found a new home at Auckland Palace. Then, the Durham University got this castle as a gift.
In 1986, both the castle and cathedral became UNESCO World Heritage sites. You can see the castle today only on guided tours. If you dream of staying at a castle, they offer B&B rooms during University breaks. They also have State Rooms to rent all year round.
Experience the Scenic Durham Riverside Walk
Don’t miss a stroll along the River Wear when in Durham. This walk is a great way to feel the city’s charm. You’ll get a beautiful view of Durham Cathedral, which looks out over the river, as you walk the 3-mile loop.
It takes about 1.5 hours to finish the Riverside Walk. You’ll have a chance to enjoy the peace and beauty of the city. You’ll also see special bridges that offer great views of the River Wear and the area.
Framwellgate Bridge
Prebends Bridge
Elvet Bridge
Want something really special? Try rowing a boat or taking a cruise on the River Wear with the Prince Bishop. This adventure will help you see why Durham’s riverside is so captivating.
Durham, England: Best Things to Do – Top Picks
Durham, in northern England, is a city rich in history and culture. Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle stand out among its attractions. These sites offer unique experiences for visitors.
The Durham Cathedral is a gem of Norman architecture and the burial site of Saint Cuthbert. Inside, you’ll find the tomb of Venerable Bede and the amazing Cloisters. The stained glass and historical areas like the Sanctuary Knocker are must-sees.
The Durham Castle is a major part of Durham’s history. It was the home of the Prince Bishops. You can tour the castle and even stay there’s a bed and breakfast. This option is open during university breaks.
Take in the beauty of the Durham Riverside Walk. You’ll see great views of the River Wear. Also, the city’s major bridges like Framwellgate Bridge are worth seeing. Consider a boat ride on the river for a different view.
Visit Durham’s Market Place for a taste of its culture. There’s an outdoor market and great street food. Don’t miss the Town Hall, where you can learn about Durham’s history and interesting figures like Józef Boruwłaski.
Explore beyond the city center to Finchale Priory and the Oriental Museum. Also, enjoy shopping at Durham Market Hall. For history buffs, the buildings on Palace Green are a must-see.
Durham offers so much – from its medieval sites to its scenic walks. It’s a city waiting to amaze you with its history and culture. Be sure to visit and make special memories in this wonderful place.
Explore the Historic Durham Market Place
Any Saturday in Durham, the Market Place comes alive. It’s at the heart of the city, near the cathedral. You’ll find a vibrant marketplace, full of interesting shops and crafts. It’s the perfect place to find unique items at good prices.
Street Food Stalls
Looking for something tasty? The Durham Market Place has you covered. You can find various street food stalls offering special dishes from around the world. Think mouth-watering crepes, to delicious artisanal pizza. There’s sure to be something you’ll love.
Statues and Monuments
While you explore, don’t miss the statues and monuments. They’re part of the scenery. Look for Neptune’s impressive statue and the Man on the Horse. They’re just a few of the historical gems you may see.
Visit Durham Town Hall and Learn Local History
Durham Town Hall is a top spot to visit. It was first built back in the 1300s. Since then, it has been changed and made bigger. The main part of the hall is The Great Hall.
This hall is 72 feet long and made of wood. Inside, you’ll see plaques and symbols of important local families. Visiting the hall is not only free but also a great way to learn about Durham’s past.
The Great Hall
The Great Hall at Durham Town Hall is stunning. Inside, you’ll see amazing woodwork. There are also symbols of local importance. This hall is a must-see for anyone visiting.
Prince Bishops
The story of the Prince Bishops is a big part of Durham’s history. This powerful group once ruled the area. At the Town Hall, you can learn all about their impact on the city’s growth.
Trade Guilds
The Town Hall also shows off the importance of trade guilds. These groups, made of craftsmen and merchants, were key to Durham’s success. You can learn about their work and influence here.
Józef Boruwłaski – The Little Count
If you visit Durham Town Hall, you might hear about Józef Boruwłaski. He was a famous Polish dwarf musician. Known as the “Little Count,” his story is quite interesting. Find out more about him and his link to Durham.
Discover the Ruins of Finchale Priory
Finchale Priory lies just four miles north of Durham City Centre. It marks an era of history, built in the late 12th century. The monks of Durham Cathedral used it as a place for rest. They enjoyed its serene grounds until the 16th century when monasteries were dissolved.
Take a walk over the bridge near the priory. Then look back to see the stunning priory ruins from across the River Wear. It’s a great outing that won’t cost you anything. Arrive by bus number 62 if you’re using public transport. From the bus stop, it’s a brief 15-minute walk to this beautiful spot.
Immerse in Culture at the Oriental Museum
Get ready for a trip through world culture at the Oriental Museum in Durham. This special place holds more than 36,000 items from places like Egypt, China, Japan, India, and Korea. Each floor showcases a different part of history. The Egyptian section is especially cool, shedding light on the Pharaohs’ world.
Walking through the exhibits, you’ll feel like you’ve traveled back in time. There’s amazing art, detailed pottery, and interesting artifacts all around. You might stop to admire a fine Chinese vase or learn about ancient Egypt. The museum is a chance to see new things and learn.
The museum is just a 20-minute walk from the city center. Anyone can visit for free, which is awesome. This makes learning about different cultures open to everyone.
Explore Durham Museum and Heritage Centre
Durham Museum and Heritage Centre is a short walk from the cathedral. This former church showcases Durham’s history beautifully. Inside, you can explore stories of the Prince Bishops and Durham’s mining past.
Wood Sculptures
In the churchyard, you’ll find wood sculptures, a top attraction. Made by Fenwick Lawson, they show St Cuthbert and Gaia. Don’t miss the chance to see them as you walk around the museum.
At just £2.50, visiting this museum is affordable. It’s perfect for learning about Durham’s history and culture.
Shop at Durham Market Hall
Don’t miss out on Durham’s historic indoor market in the city center. Established in 1851, it’s a rare privately owned market. Here, you can buy local produce, clothing, and meats. It’s open every day but Sunday. Upstairs, there’s a lovely café too. Nearby, you’ll find Prince Bishops Place, home to various shops and cafes.
Wander Around Palace Green’s Historic Buildings
Palace Green may sound like a royal spot, but it’s a lovely green area. It sits between the grand Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle. In the past, it was where a market stood with wooden houses up to the 12th century. But due to fire risk, the market was moved to its present spot.
Besides the Cathedral and Castle, Palace Green holds more historic treats. You should check out Bishop Cosin’s Hall, a beautiful Georgian home. Also, the Pemberton Building and the Palace Green Library are must-sees.
Bishop Cosin’s Hall
This building housed the Bishop of Durham years ago. Now, it shows art and objects telling the area’s story. It’s a glimpse into the past’s creativity and life.
Pemberton Building
The Pemberton Building, close to Palace Green, is special too. It was built in the late 19th century. Today, it’s an important spot for Durham University’s big decisions.
Palace Green Library
The Palace Green Library is a must-visit. It’s full of books, old manuscripts, and special materials. These show Durham University’s knowledge and its connection to the area.
Conclusion
Durham, England, is a city that beautifully combines old and new. Everywhere you look, there’s history and vibrant life. The Durham Cathedral and Castle stand tall, while the River Wear flows peacefully.
Exploring Durham is like stepping into a storybook. You’ll find ancient tales of St. Cuthbert and modern cultural treasures. The Oriental Museum and its local wonders make every moment special.
This journey leads you through Durham’s rich history. You discover the influential Prince Bishops and the stories of the Neville family. The City’s heritage, from the Town Hall to Finchale Priory, is truly captivating.
Saying goodbye to Durham, you can’t help but reflect. The grand cathedral and serene riverside walks have made a lasting impression. Durham’s blend of history and modern life is truly unforgettable.
As you leave, Durham’s memories will stay with you. The city has a charm that never fades. Every part of your visit, from the historic sites to the welcoming community, is a treasure.
FAQ
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