Out & About in Durham

Durham is a city in the North East of England with a population of around 44,000 people. Renowned for its winding streets and superb architecture, the city's diverse history can be traced back to around 2,000 BC. Nevertheless, it is the medieval history that truly defines Durham's heritage - from the shrine of Saint Cuthbert to the Norman Invasion, during which period the city's castle was constructed.

Other notable places in Durham include Durham University, which has more than 17,000 students and is claimed, not without controversy, to be the 3rd oldest university in England behind Oxford and Cambridge. Indeed, since 1840, Durham University has occupied Durham Castle, reputedly making it the oldest inhabited university building in the world! The castle itself is magnificent - a real treat for historians and lovers of fine architecture.

Durham Cathedral, which overlooks the River Wear, is another impressive architectural gem. The Norman structure is over 900 years old and is a must-see for tourists visiting Durham.

Shopping

The streets of Durham are littered with arts and craft stores, boutiques and various other privately-owned shops. Saddler Street is renowned as the location of Mrs Clemens' popular Durham Mustard product - be sure to buy a jar or two!

Dales Centre and Dalton Park Shopping Centres are the two most prominent shopping zones in Durham. Dales Centre, which is set in beautiful antiquated buildings, hosts an array of craft shops that sell goods made by local people. Dalton Park, on the other hand, is a modern shopping centre that resides on 55 acres of parkland and which is home to some 60 stores. Marks & Spencer, Gap and a Next Clearance outlet are typical of the many fashionable brand names on offer at Dalton Park.

Nevertheless, shopping in Durham would not quite feel authentic unless a trip is made to the city's famous, 150 year old indoor market, which hosts more than 50 independent traders. Also, Durham has a superb farmers' market that boasts local lamb produce and Dales brewed beer!

Food and Drink

Durham is a beautiful little city. Its architecture is a sight to behold, the surrounding landscapes are a bona fide breath of fresh air and the shopping facilities are of a high standard. It is of no surprise, therefore, that the city offers a fantastic range of culinary delights. In fact, Durham has just about everything the taste buds require, including Chinese, French, Indian, Italian, Japanese, Mexican, Portugese and Thai!

The Dynasty Buffet Restaurant is a fine example of quality Chinese food, whilst there are also takeaway outlets in the area. French cuisine is best served at the Café Rouge on Silver Street, whilst Italian food aficionados are somewhat spoilt for choice with the availability of the Bella Pasta, Bistro Italiano, Emilio's, Ristorante De' Medici and the truly exquisite Che Vita Ristorante Italiano. Che Vita is located on Station Lane and serves typical starters such as garlic bread and bruschettas in addition to the more adventurous 'Duck and Port Paté with Melba Toast' and 'Insalata Caprese'. Pizza lovers may want to sample the Quattro Formaggi, which is a bold and enjoyable indulgence.

In respect to where to drink, there are a host of cafés and coffee shops dotted along the city streets. The Swan and Three Cygnets is one of the more popular pubs in the city and boasts fantastic outdoor seating and excellent Sam Smith's beer. The Rock 'N' Amigostequila provides the best of both worlds, however, with a menu of fajitas, burritos and guacamole served alongside tequila and - quite literally - beer by the bucket load! This popular student location is also great fun for older groups.

Arts and Entertainment

Durham has a rich selection of museums on offer to the viewing public, from the Oriental and Archaeology Museums in Durham University to the Coal Mining Museum.

The Gala Theatre and Cinema is another popular arts and entertainment venue in Durham, with an auditorium capacity of up to 800 and a two-screen cinema complex that can accommodate up to 194 movie lovers, this fantastic building also includes a studio and balcony area, snack refreshments and free jazz every Saturday night! Durham also has a thriving nightlife, with clubs including the Studio and The Loveshack.

Hotel and Travel

Durham offers everything in the way of accommodation, from camping to luxurious hotels. Concerning the latter, Lumley Castle Hotel is about as good as it gets. Standing for more than 600 years, the hotel comprises 73 exceptionally well-furnished bedrooms and various other facilities expected of a five star hotel.

Durham Airport services a number of key national flight routes, whilst the city's train station accommodates some 1.9 million passengers each year and 60 intercity trains daily. Travelling to Durham by car involves a trip along the A1(M) and A690 Durham.