Birthplace of English mustard and the home to one of the world's first World Heritage sites, Durham is a county and a city with a rich history for locals and visitors to explore. From Durham cathedral, famous as being the final resting place of Saint Cutherbert and Durham castle, home to Durham University students since 1832, the city has a wealth of historical attractions to explore. Discover some of our favourite landmarks and things to do in Durham in the guide below.
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As a county, Durham is a borders Northumberland and Tyne and Wear to the north, the North Sea to the east, North Yorkshire to the south, and Cumbria to the west. The county town is the city of Durham which is home to one of the one of the most gorgeous city scapes in Durham.
Fun fact: Durham derives from the Old English "dun", meaning hill, and the Old Norse "holme", meaning island.
Located just outside of the city, Botanic garden is a 10 hectare garden nestled in the woodland of Durham University campus. For a small ticket fee, visitors can explore the Alpine Garden, Winter Garden, Woodland Garden and a wild flower meadow. There is also a café located in the gardens for a light bite to eat or an escape from the rain. The garden also hosts a range of free activities and events throughout the year for all the family to enjoy.
Find out more about upcoming events and purchase tickets on the University website.
Durham Cathedral is the Anglican Cathedral church of the Diocese of Durham. It is the resting place of St Cuthbert, transported to Durham by Lindisfarne monks in the 800s, and the Venerable Bede, the Seat of the Bishop of Durham. The cathedral grounds have featured in the first two Harry Potter films and in tv shows such as Treasure Hunt, Songs of Praise and The Antiques Roadshow.
The majestic building is built on the Norman-era cathedral that first started in 1093. In 1986 the cathedral was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and today visitors can explore the building for free. Find out more about opening times on the
cathedral website.
Crook Hall is a Grade I listed stone manor house built in the 13th or 14th to 18th centuries with the oldest part of the house dating to the 13th century. Surrounded by interlinking gardens, visitors can enjoy a maze, orchard and secret walled garden against a back drop of the medieval hall and views of Durham city. There is a café and outdoor terrace with refreshments available.
While this article focused on things to do in Durham, you can find a range of Northumberland trip ideas on our blog.
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