As you know I’m a big fan of a Northern city break.
As a born and bred Lancashire gal I might be a bit bias, but I think the North of England is home to some of the best cities in the world! With a wide variety of culture, heritage and history, there’s just so much to explore! Last weekend I was lucky enough to visit another gem of the North, Durham. Despite only being a few hours up the road from us, you’ll be surprised to know I’d never actually visited Durham before this trip and didn’t really know what to expect. Durham was up against some tough northern competition, from the likes of York and Lincoln both holding a special place in my heart, but after a night away in Durham this charming city certainly won me over…
Here’s what we got up to and my top three recommendations for what to see and do in Durham, England.
Find a spot for brunch
If like me you think breakfast is the most important meal of the day, then Durham’s your new fave place. Nestled between independent boutiques and quirky gin bars you’ll find cool coffee shops and Instagrammable brunch stops, this city is a real mixing bowl of meeting places and eateries. When I asked you lovely lot for brunch recommendations before my visit one place kept coming up, Flat White Kitchen. So obviously we had to check it out. We were given the heads up by Chloe from New Girl in Toon to get there early to avoid queuing and managed to get a table bang on 10am on Sunday morning. Well known for it’s pancakes and coffee, Flat White offers a hearty breakfast menu in a cosy, rustic interior.
Explore Durham’s history
Similar to close by York and Lincoln, Durham is steeped in history and showcases that with spectacular cathedrals and churches. Just up past the busy high street you’ll find Durham Cathedral and Castle standing proud on the hill. These magnificent buildings are well worth a visit with many areas free to look around, although the castle was closed the day we visited. Never the less, we enjoyed a stroll around the grounds and although the sun wasn’t shining, spring was definitely in the air.
If you head to Durham’s main market place, you’ll find St. Nicolas church guarding its sellers and makers every Saturday morning.
Take a walk along the river
One unexpected treasure we found in Durham was the beautiful circular river walk. Starting at Elvet Bridge and finishing at Framwellgate Bridge, the walk took us in a loop along the river showcasing some of the cities most breath taking bridges and buildings. There’s something about having a river so interconnected that gives this city it’s character. I love how close it is to everything, you can literally step away from the hustle and bustle of the high street and be greeted with the peace and quiet of the river within minutes.
The perfect stroll to walk off those famous Flat White pancakes!
Read : Top Northern cities to add to your bucket list
Check out my Instagram for more photos of Durham & follow along to see where I’m heading next.
Our weekend in Durham was over all too quickly, but I’m sure we will be back soon. This lovely city won us over with it’s charming history and eclectic mix of cafes, bars and shops.
Have you ever visited Durham? What’s your favourite Northern city?
Anna x
Want to read more?
4 northern cities to add to your bucket list
Gorgeous photographs and I am SO happy that you managed to get a table at Flat White, it’s worth getting up early for!
Such a fabulous post lovely, I always love your brilliant travel guides, so full of gems and amazing recommendations! I’ve never been to Durham, so it was perfect to learn more about the city; your photos look stunning and the sights magical. Flat White looks like the most gorgeous place, the feel of the interior is oh so pretty 🙂 I haven’t explored too many Northern cities apart from York and Leeds, the boyf and I love Yorkshire so hopefully we’ll be able to make another trip up there soon <3
Sophie | soinspo xo