The home of Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle, this city combines historical sites with an outdoor lifestyle that is ideal for visitors of all types.

 

Highlights

 

• Durham University Oriental Museum - Devoted entirely to the art and archeology of North Africa and Asia, this museum has recently been redeveloped to include two new Chinese galleries and features historical artefacts from Egyptian tombs and Buddhist and Hindu shrines. Open: Monday to friday 10am to 5pm, Saturday and Sunday 12pm to 5pm.

 

• Gala theatre and Cinema - Situated inside a purpose built £15m building, this beautiful theatre sits alongside the river Wear and features a modern theatre with a bar and two cinema screens as well as conference facilities. Open: Monday to saturday 10am to 8.30pm, Sunday 2.30pm to 8.30pm.

 

• Durham Cathedral - Built in 1093, this place of worship is renowned for its Romanesque architecture and its location in the heart of the city centre. Visitors can enjoy the medieval wall paintings and the stunning Rose Window in the chapel. The cloister featured in Harry Potter and now houses the cathedral shop. Open: Monday  to Sunday 9.30am to 6pm (closes 5.30pm on Sundays).

 

• Durham Castle - Visitors who want a unique place to stay will enjoy Durham Castle with its affordable university style accommodation. This is part of a World Heritage Site and is centrally located next to the Durham Cathedral. Visitors can enjoy free guided tours of the castle as part of their stay. Open all year round with ensuite in many rooms.

 

Description

 

Durham City was described by Bill Bryson as the perfect little city, while elsewhere it was voted the best city in the UK. With cobbled streets and the stunning World Heritage Site that features Durham cathedral and castle, this is one of the most dramatic cities in the world. As a university town, Durham is buzzing with life and has more than enough to keep all types of visitor happy. There are plenty of upmarket cafes and pubs along with galleries offering exhibits based on the local area. Lovers of the outdoors will enjoy the local botanical gardens and can travel further afield to see gardens and perfect countryside vistas.

 

The University of Durham is considered to be one of the best in the UK and is situated within the beautiful world heritage site location. The many museums and vibrant contemporary culture is the perfect backdrop to this intellectually stimulating city.