Durham

To discover the wonders of Durham, head to the Main Cathedral. This 10th-century complex holds the relics of St. Cuthbert (the patron saint of Northern England) and St. Bede the Venerable (the father of English history). On a sunny day, the famous stained glass windows are especially impressive. The magnificent Gothic Cathedral and the imposing Durham Castle are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Nearby, you'll find the city museum and Heritage Center.

The circular Durham Riverside Walk is popular: in just an hour and a half, you can see the city's main historical landmarks and take hundreds of striking photos. Along the way, enjoy views of the river from three ancient bridges.

The area between the cathedral and the castle, known as Palace Green, is surrounded by several historic buildings. On Saturdays, you can purchase goods made by local artisans at the Market Square.

Entry to the Great Hall of the Town Hall is free; it's worth admiring the stained glass windows, wooden panels, and crests of local aristocrats. The Oriental Museum at Durham University also offers free admission, showcasing 36,000 artifacts from Ancient Egypt, China, Japan, and India. At the Beamish Museum, tourists can experience the Victorian and Edwardian eras through buildings, food, and clothing.

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