Durham tourist information
The city can trace its history back a thousand years, to the arrival of a religious community seeking a permanent resting place for the body of St Cuthbert of Lindisfarne. As a shrine for their saint, they built first a wooden, then a stone church, on top of a rocky hill, protected on three sides by the River Wear.
Following the Norman conquest of 1066, King William also found this site appealing and realised it offered an ideal strategic location from which to rule Northumbria and defend the region against the Scots. The community of Cuthbert gave way to Benedictine Monks and a Bishop appointed by the king. They began the building of the Cathedral, to provide a monumental shrine for St Cuthbert, and the Castle, to act as protection for the Cathedral and to provide a palace for the Bishop.
The result was one of the most impressive construction projects ever undertaken. The panoramic view of the Cathedral and Castle has been described as ‘one of the finest architectural experiences of Europe’ and together they are now designated a World Heritage Site.
Bishops of Durham at that time were given the power to govern the North on the king’s behalf and subsequently assumed the title of ‘Prince Bishop’. They were entitled to raise taxes, mint coins, had supreme jurisdiction both civil and military, and for centuries occupied the most powerful position in the region.
The prosperity of the city naturally developed around the Cathedral; St Cuthbert’s shrine attracting pilgrims from all parts, until it was one of the richest in England. A series of charters, granted by the Bishops, conceded trading rights and local government to the local citizens, creating a thriving market town.
In the 19th century, the University was founded, thanks to the benevolence of Bishop Van Mildert and the Cathedral Chapter. Durham Castle became the first university college, and nearby Auckland Castle was retained as the sole residence of the Bishop.
The Industrial Age gave prominence to County Durham at the heart of the vital coal fields, and saw the creation of the world’s first passenger railway in 1825. Practically every village around the city boasted a coal mine and, although these have since disappeared as part of the regional decline in heavy industry, the proud traditions, heritage and community spirit are still evident.
A thousand years of welcoming pilgrims has given Durham a reputation for hospitality. Visitors are encouraged to explore the city and discover for themselves what makes it so special.
Durham is a compact city yet offers a wide range of facilities. A wide range of shops and restaurants co-exist happily with the Victorian Market. Much of Durham’s shopping area is closed to traffic, making for a more relaxed atmosphere. Take time to sit in the cobbled Market Place and enjoy some of the street entertainment, particularly during July and August. The monthly Farmers’ Market is a welcome new addition to the events calendar. Here you will find fresh local specialities to take back home. In the Spring and Summer, stunning floral displays adorn the City for which Durham regularly wins prizes.
Yet within minutes, it is possible to escape the bustle of this thriving market town by taking one of the many paths that lead down to the riverbanks. Watch the river for rowers from one of the university teams, or take the ‘Prince Bishop’ river cruiser for a gentle trip along the river with stunning views.
The Racecourse backs on to the River Wear and is a favourite area for walks. Horse races have not been held here since the 19th century, however the country’s top athletics cross-country event is now a regular fixture here and attracts the best runners in the world.
For over a century the Miners’ Gala has taken place here on the second Saturday in July. Despite the closure of all pits in County Durham, ex-miners, their families and friends still gather to hear speeches, socialise and attend a special service in the Cathedral. Colliery bands lead processions and banners are proudly paraded through the streets.
The stretch of river by the Racecourse is well known for the annual Durham Regatta which is held in June. The regatta was founded in its present form in 1834, making it the second oldest in the country, even older than Henley. The Regatta has grown enormously in recent years, attracting over 600 crews from all over the world.
Work has started on a major new development in the City centre: The Durham Millennium City Project. By 2002, the city will boast: a new multi-purpose hall for concerts, drama and conferences - The Gala Theatre, a Visitor Centre showing a film about the history of Durham as well as a new Tourist Information Centre and craft workshops.
A further development, Walkergate, next to the Millennium City project, will add further leisure facilities: a multiplex cinema; health and fitness club; family entertainment centre, as well as cafés, bars and restaurants.
Durham aerial map
Please click on any icon on the Durham aerial tourist map, to find close by places, offering hotels and tourist information. You can zoom in and zoom out our touristical map as well as switch between satelite and map view of Durham.
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