Durham Castle & Cathedral
Designated a World Heritage Site in 1986.
Durham Castle and Cathedral were given World Heritage Site status in 1986. Both the castle and cathedral overlook a bend in the River Wear, which runs through the old university town of Durham.
Durham Cathedral was built in the late 11th and early 12th centuries to house the relics of St Cuthbert, the evangelist of Northumbria, and the Venerable Bene. Following the Norman conquest of 1066, King William also found this site appealing and realised it offered an ideal strategic location from which to rule Northumbria and defend the region against the Scots.
The Cathedral is widely known as the largest and finest example of Norman architecture in England. The spectacular Nave never fails to impress, with huge carved pillars that measure 6.6 metres round and 6.6 metres high.
The prosperity of the city naturally developed around the Cathedral; St Cuthbert's shrine attracted pilgrims from far and wide, until it was one of the richest in England. The Bishops passed a series of charters increasing trading rights, which created a thriving market town.
Durham Castle stands behind the Cathedral. This ancient Norman fortress was once the residence of the prince-bishops of Durham. In 1837 Durham Castle became the first university college, and nearby Auckland Castle was retained as the sole residence of the Bishop.
The castle itself covers three sides of a courtyard - the old inner bailey - and you can clearly trace the additions made by various bishops over time, as each bishop placed his personal coat of arms on the bit of wall he had rebuilt.
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For any of you garden lovers or those planning a history or heritage themed trip around Britain, the essential "buy before you leave" product is the Great British Heritage Pass. Providing free entry into over 600 castles, gardens and stately homes across the length and breadth of Britain, it really is the key to unlocking Britain's secrets.
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