Durham, England

Durham a UNESCO world heritage site,  is a city steeped in history and packed full of hidden gems. Situated in the North East of England, the community is welcoming to visitors, and is easy to access. It’s only 3 hours by train to London, and less than two to Edinburgh, offering easy onward travel to diverse British culture, making it a great location to stop off in during a trip.

Both its cathedral and the 11th century castle adjacent were designated Unesco World Heritage Sites in 1986, and the castle itself has been the home of Durham University since 1832. Visitors can also enjoy a delicious and reasonably priced afternoon tea in the Cathedral itself.

The city contains a number of listed buildings, one, two star, and two, from the spectacular (Elvet Bridge) to the ordinary (the Durham Marriott Hotel Royal sits in a Grade II* listed building).

Durham has a long history of producing quality local produce, with many farmers markets on offer, including one at the historic mill in Saddler Street, which was the first to grind English mustard, and England’s oldest agricultural show was held in Durham, in 1763 in the Wolsingham Durham Dales.

The visitor offering is well organised by Visit Durham, the tourist organisation, and there is a diverse programme of activities on offer, from The Way of Love, a walk through beautiful buildings and romantic landscapes, which explores enchanting stories of Durham’s most eminent residents, including romantic poet Elizabeth Barrett Browning, to a must-do experience list for the Beamish Museum.

For those looking for a gentler visit, a simple walk around the Vennels and the city centre will offer guests a quality experience of authentic Durham; the winding alleyways give insight into the city’s past offering an easy route around some of the city’s architectural wonders, including the old Town Hall off Market Square and its amazing interior.