Historic Durham & Cathedral

OVERVIEW

Feast your eyes on glorious landmarks as you visit Durham and tour its iconic 11th-century cathedral, arguably England’s finest example of Norman architecture. Lying about an hour south of Newcastle, across a green rolling landscape, Durham seems to have lost all track of modern time. Even with a gaggle of university students in town to help keep things lively, little has changed over the centuries along Durham’s winding, cobbled streets and the leafy banks of the River Wear that loops through town. One architectural gem above all stands out here: Durham Cathedral, built in 1093 to house the relics of St. Cuthbert and the Venerable Bede. You’ll tour this dramatic UNESCO-listed structure, laden with superb design details including its carved nave pillars, bishop’s throne, and stone rib vaulting – the first in any European cathedral. Even the later stained-glass windows are fantastic.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Settle in for a drive through pastoral North East England to visit a medieval throwback.
• Tour UNESCO-listed Durham Cathedral, revered both for its relics of saints and its quintessential Norman design.
• Admire the dramatic volume and impressive design details of this venerable 11th-century landmark.
• Take some free time to wander Durham’s picturesque cobbled lanes and riverbanks at your leisure.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Wear layered, weather-appropriate clothing; include a jacket or umbrella in case of rain. Flat, comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.