Fondly described by American–British author, Bill Bryson as ‘the perfect little city’, Durham has everything from quaint coffee shops and eateries to a vibrant nightlife that leaves even the most flamboyant of graduates gasping for breath…
Archeological evidence suggests a history of settlement in the area since around 2000 BC with the name Durham originating from the Brythonic element ‘dun’ which relates to a hill-fort.
Both historic and beautiful, the Castle and imperious Cathedral were built in the 11th century, playing host to Durham University since 1832 and HM’s infamous Durham Prison which was built in 1816.
Durham’s entire centre is now designated as conservation area and contains in excess of 630 listed buildings, including:
- Chorister School
- Crook Hall
- Durham Castle
- Durham Cathedral
- Elvet Bridge
- Framwellgate Bridge
- Kepier Hospital
- Kingsgate Bridge
- Prebends Bridge
- St Giles Church, Gilesgate
- Church of St Margaret of Antioch, Crossgate
- Church of St Mary-le-Bow