2025 Durham Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in May)

· Durham is not big, but it is full of college style and history. With the various lights on during Christmas, it is even more atmospheric! Citywalk is certainly the best way to explore Durham I'd like to recommend a citywalk route to you so you don't have to go back the same way. · 1️⃣Observatory Hill It's a ten-minute walk from the train station to the top of the hill where you can see the panoramic view of Durham. It's really worth it. 2️⃣There is a meadow near the Palatine Center, which is also a small hill, but I didn’t go there because it was snowing. It is a great place to take photos with the castle. 3️⃣ Durham Old Town. Although it is called Durham Old Town, it is actually a university. The commercial street is also full of exquisite things. There are many second-hand shops worth browsing. The atmosphere is full during Christmas, and it is even more beautiful with a snow. When we went there, we happened to see the choir rehearsal and ran into Santa Claus on the street. Durham's Christmas market is indoors, so it didn't feel cold. 4️⃣Durham Cathedral Must check in! ! Who doesn’t love the Harry Potter and the Harry Potter Corridor? In addition to being the filming location for the interior of Hogwarts School, this is also the filming location for "The Godfather". However, the Harry Potter Corridor is still under renovation. But in such a church, it still feels like traveling through time. 5️⃣Durham Castle It's right next to the church. Although it's called a castle, it's now a student dormitory of Durham University (what kind of family conditions are these? I also want to live in a castle). If you are not interested in the castle, then just visit the Christmas market in the old town. · Durham is not big, but it is really worth a visit. The whole city is a World Heritage Site. You can also go boating in the summer. Isn’t it the kind of place that a small British countryside should be so cozy? · 🏨Hotel There are still many hotel choices. Indigo and Delta are more recommended, which are located next to Durham Bridge. Just across the bridge is the old town. The Indigo where we stayed was converted from the former university office area of ​​the original Hill Auditorium. It is very retro and every red brick has a story! Even the breakfast is great~ · 🚄Transportation I bought a ticket from Edinburgh Waverley Station and came to Durham. It only took 2 and a half hours by LNER train. When traveling in first class, you can also enjoy the lounge in Edinburgh Station for free. Your train journey will not be boring either, as the scenery of the east coast of England is right before your eyes. Friends who have time can also go to Newcastle. The seaside scenery from Edinburgh to Newcastle is particularly beautiful. It is recommended that you choose to sit on the right side. Hadrian's Wall is very suitable for hiking and it is a place I particularly like. In addition, the location of Durham Station is also great. There is a small observation deck outside the station where you can see the scenery of the old town. · My UK train trip is almost over. I have compiled a detailed 10-day, 9-night itinerary. I hope it will be helpful to you.

Durham is a representative small town in the UK! Durham Cathedral is located at DH1 3EH. It is also the filming location of Harry Potter and the must-visit place for Harry Potter fans. From a close distance, it looks like a medieval castle. From a distance, with the lights and the river, the tranquil atmosphere of the town is overwhelming. Taking a walk here will calm your mood. It happened to be sunny and the weather was clear. There are many slopes in Durham, and it is a bit tiring to walk with a suitcase. Then I went to Durham University. There is a Turkish restaurant with delicious food on the street in the city center. Its name is Akarsu Turkish Restaurant. It is located at DH13RD. It is a treasure Turkish restaurant hidden on the second floor. The owner is very enthusiastic and the food is delicious. #Overseas Travel #Durham

#Overseas Travel

Most of Durham Cathedral was built by the Normans in 1133 with most of the interior you see today being completed within a very short time of only 40 years. Because of most of being completed in a short time it is famous for having a mostly unified gothic style which is rare for buildings like this. You can see Durham cathedral from almost any point in the city of Durham itself. It is an iconic landmark which is free to visit and a still a working religious building. The staff are always very friendly in the cathedral and are happy to talk about some of the history. Visiting the cathedral requires a walk up a steep bank but this is all part of the charm of Durham city. Is highly recommend going for a walk along the River Wear in Durham city after a visit to really get a sense of the scale of the building. Durham cathedral is also famous as a filming location for Harry Potter several years ago. There are many famous religious buildings in the UK such as York Minster and Canterbury Cathedral. I often think because of its northern location Durham cathedral can be overlooked by tourists, however, it is well worth a visit to enjoy the city and it’s amazing old cathedral.

Durham historical gardens history and beauty in one place. Pick pea pods flowers and snails to your hearts content while enjoying a nice cup of tea in the sun and listen to the birds all day

The first six stories of Harry Potter are mainly in the Hogwarts School of Magic, and the famous Norman architecture in the UK is one of the locations of the Hogwarts School of Magic. In the church, you can feel the magnificent architecture of the ancient British architecture, and listen to the melodious choir organ. Looking at the square atrium, you can recall the magical plot of the movie Harry Potter series. Being immersive, the sense of reality gradually replaced the original mystery. Tickets for the church are free, and some exhibitions (such as the monastic dorms and treasures) are at their own expense. In addition, for a guided tour, adults are charged 5 and children or students are charged 4.5. If you don't participate in the tour, you can spend 1 pound to buy an introductory book. The church is very ceremonial, and it is simply a movie scene that God has restored. Address: The College

📍Leeds to Durham by train

Beautiful scenery at Durham

Busy weekend but lovely visiting friends.

Lovely day in Durham, indulged in some gorgeous fresh tasty food at the Turkish Kitchen Meze and Grill, something to suit every palate, staff were friendly and attentive and made fabulous cocktails. Highly recommended.

Second best city in vibes to Bath

Durham University is a prestigious British university founded in 1832. It has a world-class academic reputation and is a coveted temple of learning for students around the world. Whether it’s academic research, cultural events or student life, it’s amazing. 🛕 Must-visit attractions 🔹 Durham University Library: It is a spiritual home for students and scholars with its rich academic atmosphere and rich book resources. 🔹 Durham Castle: Built in the 11th century, it is one of the oldest university castles in the UK and has both historical significance and an important cultural heritage on campus. 🔹 Riverwalk: Walking along the Dale River offers beautiful natural views and is a great place to relax. 🔹 Durham University Observatory: Provides astronomical research resources and regularly hosts public lectures and stargazing events. 📸 Check-in recommendations 📍 Durham University Campus: Roam around the ancient campus, feel the academic atmosphere, take many photos. 📍 Riverside Cafe: Sip a cup of coffee in a laid-back atmosphere and enjoy the tranquil life of a British town. 📍 Durham Castle Museum: Explore the history and culture within Durham Castle and learn more about British history and the university. 💡Playing Tips ✅ Ticket advice: Durham Castle has a visit ticket for a specified time, it is recommended to book in advance. ✅ Best visit season: Spring and autumn are the most pleasant, the climate is moderate, the campus scenery is charming. ✅ Transportation advice: You can take the train to Durham Station and walk to Durham University. A place with both academic, historical and natural views, Durham University is the ideal institution in every student’s heart! #UK #UKTravel #UK Attractions

#OverseasTravelStrategy I visited dozens of cities during my trip to the UK, and here are some of the most memorable places! 🥇 Edinburgh 🏰 History and fantasy intertwine in the Scottish capital • The spectacular view from Edinburgh Castle is overwhelming! • Walking along the Royal Mile, you'll be enveloped in a medieval atmosphere. • Perfect for a Harry Potter pilgrimage! (Visit Victoria Street and cafes) • Don't miss the summer Edinburgh Festival! 🥈 Durham 📜 A small town packed with history • Durham Cathedral, a World Heritage Site, is a sacred place that was also used as a filming location for the Harry Potter movies. • Durham Castle is a unique spot that is still used as a university dormitory! • The entire city has a quiet and calm atmosphere, making it the perfect place to relax. 🥉 Llandudno 🌊 Beautiful seaside resort in Wales • The panoramic view from the Great Orme is breathtaking! • A walk along the coast with a Victorian atmosphere is extremely relaxing. • A place associated with Alice in Wonderland, with statues of characters scattered throughout the town. ✨ Each town has its own charm, making it a place you'll want to visit again and again! 🇬🇧💙

#Traveling Abroad There are many fascinating locations in the UK where the Harry Potter series was filmed. Here are 6 places in England that fans should definitely visit! Why not experience being in the world of the movies? 📍 Durham Cathedral – Hogwarts Corridor This majestic cathedral in Durham appeared as the Hogwarts corridor in the movies. In particular, the scene where Harry flies the owl Hedwig in Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone and the scene where Ron searches for a frog in The Chamber of Secrets were filmed here. Walking through the Gothic corridors will make you feel like a Hogwarts student! 📍 Access: Approximately 3 hours by train from London Kings Cross Station 🎟 Admission fee: Free (donations welcome) 📍 New College, Oxford – Hogwarts courtyard One of the colleges at Oxford University, it was used as the Hogwarts courtyard in the movie. In Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, the scene where Malfoy teases Harry and Professor Moody (actually a fake) turns him into a ferret was filmed here. The atmosphere of the beautiful stone corridors and courtyards makes you feel the magical world just like in the movie. 📍 Access: Approximately 1 hour by train from London 🎟 Admission fee: Approximately 8 pounds 📍 Goathland Station – Hogsmeade Station Goathland Station in North Yorkshire was filmed as Hogsmeade Station. In the movie, the scene where Harry and his friends get off the Hogwarts Express and step into the magical world for the first time is memorable. The actual station retains the atmosphere of the movie, making you feel as if you've wandered into the wizarding world! 📍 Access: Approximately 2 hours by train and bus from York Station 🎟 Admission fee: Free 📍 York Shambles – Model for Diagon Alley York's Shambles is a cobblestone street that retains a medieval atmosphere, and is famous as the model for Diagon Alley. There are many stores like magic goods shops here, so you feel like you're walking through the real Diagon Alley. There are also shops selling Harry Potter goods, so it's perfect for finding souvenirs! 📍 Access: Approximately 2 hours by train from London 🎟 Admission fee: Free to walk around the street 📍 Alnwick Castle – Exterior of Hogwarts and flying training site Alnwick Castle is one of the locations used for the exterior of Hogwarts in the movie. In Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, Harry's first broom riding lesson was filmed here. There is also an activity on the castle grounds where you can actually ride a broom, so if you want to feel like Harry, it's a must-see! 📍 Access: About 4 hours from London by train and bus 🎟 Admission fee: 19.50 pounds for adults, 10.25 pounds for children (varies depending on the season) 📍 Gloucester Cathedral - Hogwarts corridor The beautiful corridors of Gloucester Cathedral have appeared many times in the movies, perfectly recreating the atmosphere of Hogwarts. In Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, they were filmed as the **Forbidden Corridor**, and in The Chamber of Secrets, the scene where the Basilisk warning message appears on the wall was filmed here. The arches and stained glass of the corridors are so beautiful that you will feel like you have entered a magical world. 📍 Access: Approximately 2 hours by train from London 🎟 Admission fee: Free (donations welcome) ✨ Enjoy the world of Harry Potter in the UK! A tour of the filming locations where you can actually experience scenes from the movies is sure to be the best trip for Harry Potter fans! Why not immerse yourself in the magical world while enjoying the historic buildings and beautiful scenery? Please use this as a reference for your next trip to the UK!

#OverseasTravelStrategy When it comes to travelling to the UK, London and Edinburgh are famous, but there are actually many more attractive hidden gems! This time, we will introduce 4 cities that are not well known to tourists, but you will never forget once you visit. 🌿 Durham – A medieval city where history and nature coexist Located in the northeast of England, Durham is a city with a medieval atmosphere that makes you feel like you have traveled back in time. Durham Cathedral, a World Heritage Site, is a must-see for its magnificent architecture, which was also used as a location for the movie "Harry Potter". The nearby Durham Castle is also a must-see spot for history fans. If you stroll along the river surrounding the city, you will be able to enjoy beautiful scenery in a quiet atmosphere. One of the attractions is that there are few tourists and you can feel the history at a leisurely pace. 🌊 Llandudno – A seaside resort like a picture book Llandudno, located in northern Wales, is a beautiful seaside town that feels like a hidden resort in Europe. You can spend a relaxing time walking along the promenade lined with Victorian architecture, feeling the gentle sea breeze. We especially recommend taking the tram up the Great Orme. The view from the top is spectacular, and on a clear day you can even see all the way to Ireland! It's not too touristy, so you can fully enjoy the charm of the quiet seaside of England. 🏰 Gloucester – A hidden treasure trove of Gothic architecture Gloucester, which can be visited as a day trip from London, is a recommended city for those who like Gothic architecture. Gloucester Cathedral in particular has a magnificent atmosphere like a scene from a movie, and is actually a filming location for the Harry Potter series. The center of the city is lined with traditional pubs and cafes, making it the perfect place to relax. In addition, the area around Gloucester Docks is lined with stylish restaurants and shops renovated from historic warehouses, and is becoming increasingly popular as an area where history and modernity blend together. 🏡 York – A small jewel box filled with British history About two hours by train from London, York is a charming city where you can feel the history of Britain. The first place you should visit is York Minster, one of the largest Gothic cathedrals in the world, with its magnificent stained glass. In addition, the cobblestone streets called **The Shambles** are still intact with medieval buildings, making you feel as if you have wandered into a magical world. There are many traditional tea rooms and small general stores, so just strolling around is exciting. Although it is becoming more well-known as a tourist destination, it is still not as crowded as London, so you can spend your time leisurely! 🏴 Why not visit some hidden gem cities in Britain on your next trip? Famous tourist spots are great, but if you go a little further, there are still many wonderful cities. Each city is full of its own unique charm, whether it be history, nature, architecture, or seaside scenery. On your next trip to Britain, be sure to stop by these hidden gem cities!

#springwander Stepping into Durham Cathedral in spring feels like walking into history, with blooming gardens surrounding its grand medieval structure. Famous for its role in Harry Potter, the cathedral’s cloisters instantly transport you into the world of Hogwarts. Inside, a fascinating LEGO model of the cathedral, built brick by brick, showcases its architectural beauty in miniature. Whether you’re a fan of history, architecture, or magic, Durham Cathedral in spring is an enchanting experience.

#springwander A spring walk through Durham is a journey through history and nature in perfect harmony. The cobbled streets lead past medieval architecture, while the Riverside Walk offers stunning views of Durham Cathedral and Castle, framed by fresh spring blossoms. Along the way, the wearing river glistens under the gentle sun, and the city’s charming cafés invite a relaxing stop. Whether strolling through Palace Green or enjoying the tranquility of the riverbanks, Durham in spring is a picture of timeless beauty.

#springwander Durham in spring is a breathtaking blend of history and nature, and the Riverside Walk offers the perfect way to experience it. Starting near Prebends Bridge, you’ll be greeted with panoramic views of Durham Cathedral, its grand towers rising above the River Wear. As you walk along the winding path, the fresh spring breeze and blooming trees create a peaceful atmosphere. The riverbanks come to life with vibrant greenery, while the reflections of medieval architecture dance on the water. With every step, you’ll catch glimpses of historic bridges, charming stone buildings, and the tranquil flow of the river, making this a scenic and refreshing spring escape.

#Traveling Abroad "Are you ready for Hogwarts to open? 🎓🦉" England is like a giant "Harry Potter" world! This time, we will introduce the magical spots used in the filming of the movies! 📍 Maybe there's one near your town! ? Come and visit with us! 📌 1. Platform 9¾ - London King's Cross Station 📍 Address: Euston Rd., London, N1 9AL 🚉 Nearest station: King's Cross St. Pancras Station ✨ The legendary platform where Harry passed to board the Hogwarts Express! 📸 You can take a photo of a trolley with your luggage running into a wall! ⚠️ It's a popular spot, so be prepared to queue! We recommend going early in the morning! 📌 2. Hogwarts Corridors – Durham Cathedral 📍 Address: Durham Cathedral, DH1 3EH 🚉 Nearest station: Durham Station (about 3 hours by train from London) 🏰 Appears in the Hogwarts corridors and magic class scenes! 🌿 A photo spot where you can take beautiful photos in all four seasons📸 📌 3. Diagon Alley – The Shambles, York 📍 Address: 13-14 Shambles, York, YO1 7LZ 🚉 Nearest station: York Station 🏘️ A magical shopping street that retains the atmosphere of the Middle Ages! 🛍️ Buy a wand and robe and feel like a wizard! 📌 4. Model for the Great Hall at Hogwarts – Christ Church, Oxford 📍 Address: St Aldate’s, Oxford, OX1 1DP 🚉 Nearest station: Oxford Station 🎓 The place that inspired the Hogwarts entrance ceremony and meal scenes! 📸 The Great Staircase is just like a scene from the movie✨ 📌 5. Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry – Alnwick Castle 📍 Address: Alnwick, NE66 1NQ 🚉 Nearest station: Alnmouth Station (about 1 hour by train from Edinburgh) 🧹 The castle where the scenes for “Broomstick Lesson” and “Hogwarts Entrance” were filmed! 🏰 A spot where you can enjoy the atmosphere just like in the movie! 📌 6. Hogwarts Station – Goathland Station, North Yorkshire 📍 Address: Goathland, Whitby, YO22 5NF 🚉 Nearest station: Goathland Station (about 2 hours by train from York) 🚂 The station where the scene of the Hogwarts Express arriving was filmed! 📌 7. Model for the Malfoy family – Hardwick Hall 📍 Address: Hardwick Old Hall, Hardwick Gardens, Doe Lea, Chesterfield, S44 5QJ 🚉 Nearest station: Chesterfield Station 🏰 Appears as Draco Malfoy's home! 🌳 There is also a gorgeous garden, perfect for a stroll! 📌 8. The viaduct where the magic train runs – Glenfinnan Viaduct, Scotland 📍 Address: Glenfinnan, PH37 4LT 🚉 Nearest station: Glenfinnan Station (about 4 hours by train from Glasgow) 🚂 The legendary viaduct where the Hogwarts Express runs! 📷 The steam locomotive passes by at around 10:50am, so this is the best time to take photos! 📌 9. Harry Potter Studio Tour – Warner Bros. Studio Tour London 📍 Address: Studio Tour Dr, Leavesden, Watford, WD25 7LR 🚉 Nearest station: Watford Junction (about 1 hour by train + shuttle bus from London) 🎥 A super popular spot where you can actually see the movie set! 🛍️ There are plenty of souvenir shops selling magical goods! ⚠️ Advance reservations are required for tickets! Tickets often sell out, so make sure to secure yours early! 📌 Travel through the world of Harry Potter! 🪄✨ Visit magical filming locations scattered across the UK and experience scenes from the movies! 🏰 What's your favorite spot? ✨

#3月好去地方2025 #DurhamTravel #BritishAncientCity #WorldCulturalHeritage #DurhamCathedral #DurhamCastle #TravelGoodPlaces Durham is an ancient city with a thousand-year history. It is famous for its magnificent cathedral and castle and is listed as a World Cultural Heritage. The city is not only full of medieval atmosphere, but also has a peaceful riverside scenery. It is one of the most worthwhile places to visit in the northeast of England. 📍 Recommended one-day tour itinerary ☀ Morning: Explore the World Cultural Heritage 🔹 Durham Cathedral ⛪ This magnificent cathedral is one of the most important Romanesque buildings in the UK, and its towering stone columns and exquisite stained glass interior are amazing. This is also one of the filming locations for movie scenes. Standing in the ancient corridor, it feels like walking into the long river of history. 🔹 Durham Castle 🏰 The castle next to the cathedral is a thousand years old and is now part of Durham University. The interior of the castle still retains its medieval style. Climbing to a high point, you can overlook the beautiful scenery of the entire city and feel the living atmosphere of the former nobility. 🍽 Noon: Enjoy delicious food in the ancient city 🔹 Market Place There are many cafes and restaurants around Durham's market square. You can choose to enjoy English afternoon tea in a traditional tea room, or taste classic British dishes such as roast and pie in a local restaurant. 🔹 Lunch by the river 🍽 It is recommended to find a riverside restaurant, enjoy the delicious food, appreciate the tranquil scenery, and feel the leisurely atmosphere of this ancient city. 🌿 Afternoon: Stroll along the river and explore the city 🔹 Cross the Old Bridge and stroll along the River Wear 🌉 Durham is surrounded by the beautiful River Wear. Walking across the Old Bridge and strolling along the riverbank, you can enjoy the spectacular views of the cathedral and castle from different angles, especially at dusk, when the interweaving of light and shadow is breathtakingly beautiful. 🔹 Durham Botanic Gardens 🌳 If you have enough time, you can go to the Durham Botanic Gardens to admire the various plants and peaceful forest trails and feel the tranquility of nature.

Beautiful Cathedral

Very beautiful monument in Durham

🚆 Just a 15-minute train ride from Newcastle, Durham welcomes you with its rich medieval charm—like stepping into a real-life fairytale! ✅ Must-Visit Attractions 📍 Durham Cathedral – Upstairs, you’ll find an intricate LEGO model of the cathedral, showcasing its stunning interior design. Downstairs? It’s a filming location for Harry Potter—a must-visit for fans of the wizarding world! 📍 Durham Castle – A historic castle worth exploring (though it was under construction during my visit). 📍 Riverside Walk – At the edge of town lies this scenic riverside path. Absolutely worth it! 🍃 The atmosphere is serene, like a fairytale forest retreat. Perfect for strolling and photography, with fresh air and lush greenery all around. One of the highlights? Two elderly gentlemen we met along the way said: “Thanks for making old people like us have a good day!”—such a heartwarming moment! ✅ Food Recommendations 🍳 Riverview Kitchen – A must-try! Their Big Breakfast (£13) is huge and super satisfying. We were lucky to get a prime river-view seat, making the meal even more special! 🍰 Treats – Incredible afternoon tea deal: Cake + drink for just £5.45! Their hot chocolate is wonderfully warming, and every cake we randomly picked turned out delicious! ✅ Travel Tips • All main attractions are within walking distance from the train station, making it a stress-free trip. • The town has many cobbled streets, so wear comfy shoes for a smooth experience! 📸 Durham is the perfect day-trip destination! Whether you’re here for history, nature, or great food, this enchanting town will leave you wanting more. Come experience this real-life fairytale town for yourself! 💖 #staycation #travel #durham #uk #英国 #naturalwonders #unitedkingdom

Hey everyone👋, today I'm taking you to Stoke-on-Trent, England, for a romantic and fulfilling two-day trip. Come along with me! Day 1: Exploring Stoke City Center and Surroundings 🌅Morning: Arrive in Stoke-on-Trent and settle into a charming hotel or cozy B&B in the city center🏨 to kick off your exciting journey. Then, head to the historic City Hall, where the ancient architecture will leave you in awe. Every brick tells a story of the past. The alleys around the castle are full of old-town charm, as if you've traveled back in time. When you're tired of walking, visit traditional shops and souvenir stores to pick up some unique English items🎁 and bring home beautiful memories of Stoke-on-Trent. 🍱Lunch: Feeling hungry? Try a traditional English lunch. Crispy golden fries paired with tender grilled fish is a delightful combination😋 that will tantalize your taste buds. 🌇Afternoon: Stroll along the River Trent and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the riverside park, a perfect blend of nature and city life. Afterward, based on your interests, visit Stoke-on-Trent's museums or art galleries to delve deeper into the city's history, culture, and artistic charm. 🌃Evening: After dinner, unwind at a bar or nightclub in the city center🥂, listen to music, chat with friends from all over the world, and experience Stoke-on-Trent's nightlife. Day 2: Day Trip to Nearby Attractions 🌄Morning: Rent a car🚗 and head to nearby Durham Castle or Yorkshire. Along the way, the scenery outside the window is picturesque, like a scene from a pastoral poem. As soon as you arrive in the town, you'll be immersed in a rich historical and cultural atmosphere, with ancient castles and churches standing as witnesses to the passage of time. 🍱Lunch: Explore the town for local specialties. Each bite is a unique culinary experience, taking your taste buds on a wonderful adventure. While dining, you can also experience local customs and a different way of life. 🌆Afternoon: Continue exploring the town's historical sites, touching the ancient stones as if hearing whispers from the past. In the evening, embark on your return journey. Along the way, find a scenic spot to relax and unwind. Back in Stoke-on-Trent, have a good rest at your hotel and recharge for your next adventure. Hey everyone, isn't this two-day trip to Stoke-on-Trent super attractive? Pack your bags and set off now💖! If you have any questions during your trip, or if you want to learn more about Stoke-on-Trent, feel free to leave a comment below.

Durham Cathedral and Castle are iconic landmarks in Durham, UK. Both have a long history and unique architectural style, and were listed as World Heritage Sites in 1986. Here is a detailed introduction to them: Durham Cathedral - Architectural style: Durham Cathedral is the most typical Norman-style church in the UK, with high windows, thick walls, thick columns, and round arches. Two symmetrical square towers stand on the west side, with another one in the middle, creating a magnificent and spectacular shape. Its vaulted design is boldly innovative, using cross-ribbed vault technology to overcome the clumsiness of Romanesque barrel vaults and pave the way for Gothic art.  - Interior furnishings: The cathedral houses many precious cultural relics and historical sites, such as the remains of Bede, the earliest historian in the UK, early handwritten books, and vestments from the old church. The north gate of the cathedral is decorated with a 12th-century gargoyle door knocker, which sinners would hold in the Middle Ages to seek God's forgiveness. - Religious significance: It was built to bury St. Cuthbert and St. Bede, who preached in Northumbria. It is the first church in the UK to be completely roofed with stone and is the most important religious and cultural center in the region. Durham Castle - Architectural style: The castle was built in 1072 and reflects the Norman style, with halls and corridors connected like a maze. Although it has been rebuilt, renovated, and expanded many times, it still retains many original architectural elements and features.  - Historical evolution: Initially, it was a fortress to defend against the Scots and the residence of the bishop's vassals. It lost its military function in the 18th century and became a residence, and was converted into a dormitory for Durham University in the 19th century, witnessing Durham's transformation from a military stronghold and religious center to a modern university town. - Important status: Durham Castle has an important strategic position in history, having resisted Scottish attacks many times. It is an important defense line in northeastern England and occupies an important place in British history and military history.

#travel #cathedral #durham

Durham, before setting off, was just a name on my travel list, a place I knew little about. However, this journey turned Durham into a vivid English watercolor in my memory, filled with unexpected surprises, joy, and emotions. The moment I arrived in Durham, I was deeply captivated by its unique charm. Unlike the gloomy and damp England I had imagined, the sunlight bathed the ancient stone buildings in a warm golden hue. The air was filled with a fresh scent, mixed with the moisture of the river and the fragrance of the distant fields, making one feel refreshed and invigorated. The winding River Wear flows through the city, with ancient buildings nestled along its banks, creating a beautiful picture. Our first stop was Durham Cathedral. Although this travelogue does not delve into history, I must say that this magnificent building is indeed impressive. We strolled around the cathedral, admiring its solemn and majestic presence, and feeling the sacred atmosphere it exuded. The cathedral square was lush with green grass, pigeons leisurely strolling, and people resting in small groups, enjoying the afternoon sun. We sat on the grass, quietly appreciating the view of the cathedral and savoring this rare tranquility. In the afternoon, we took a walk along the River Wear. The water was crystal clear, reflecting the buildings on both sides and the clouds in the sky. The riverbanks were lined with lush trees and weeping willows, and occasionally, we could see a few wild ducks playing in the water. We walked along the river, enjoying the scenery and the pleasant breeze. There were some charming little cafes and tea rooms by the river, and we chose one with a riverside view, ordered two cups of aromatic coffee, and enjoyed the river view while savoring the afternoon. In the evening, we visited the campus of Durham University. The architectural style here was quaint and elegant, with red brick walls and pointed roofs, exuding the romantic charm of an English college. The campus was shaded with green trees and lush lawns, with students sitting in small groups on the grass, reading and chatting, full of youthful vitality. We strolled around the campus, feeling the strong academic atmosphere and appreciating the beautiful campus scenery. As the sun set, the sky turned a golden red, and we sat on the lawn, quietly admiring this beautiful scene and marveling at the wonders of nature. The next day, we decided to explore the countryside around Durham. We rented bicycles and rode along winding paths through the green fields. The breeze brushed our faces, and the sunlight warmed our skin, making us feel incredibly comfortable. The scenery along the way was breathtaking, with green meadows, blooming flowers, and cows and sheep leisurely grazing, creating an idyllic pastoral scene. We rode along the country roads, marveling at the wonders of nature and enjoying the tranquility and harmony of the countryside. Along the way, we encountered a group of adorable little lambs, their fluffy coats and clear eyes resembling the elves in fairy tales. We couldn't resist stopping to take photos with them. On our last night in Durham, we enjoyed a sumptuous dinner at a restaurant recommended by the locals. The dishes were delicious, made with fresh ingredients and expertly cooked. We savored the food while reminiscing about the past few days, our hearts filled with gratitude and emotion. The restaurant staff were very friendly, enthusiastically introducing the dishes to us and recommending some local specialty drinks. As we left Durham, my heart was filled with reluctance. This city, which I had no concept of initially, brought me so many surprises and emotions. It allowed me to experience the tranquility and beauty of the English countryside and the warmth and friendliness between people. Durham, this unexpected English fairy tale, will forever be etched in my memory as one of the most beautiful memories of my life. It proved that the meaning of travel lies not in how famous the destination is, but in the scenery along the way and the connections you make with the world. Durham, I will definitely come back!