When I first visited Graham in Newcastle, we decided that if get another chance this summer, we would add a day and use it to explore Durham. From the train, you can see the castle and the cathedral, which together are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. When I thought Newcastle was hilly, I had not seen Durham yet. We did a lot of mountaineering that day, but it was well worth it.
Our first impression of historical Durham was the market place which is at the bottom of the rather steep cobbled hill that leads up to the castle and the cathedral.
We had a tour booked for the castle. Construction of the Castle began in 1072 under the orders of William the Conqueror. Since 1837, Durham Castle has been home of University College, the oldest of Durham University's Colleges. This is the reason why Durham Castle can only be visited as part of a tour. During the summer months, the student accommodation is turned into a bed and breakfast.
Unfortunately photography is not permitted inside the castle so I had to borrow photos from the internet.
The first thing we visited inside the castle is the Norman chapel. At one point during history this had been bricked up and was found again when the university wanted to build an alternative access route to the castle. This is still used as a place of worship, but also as a performing arts venue. The chapel and specifically the stone carvings on top of the pillars are one of the reasons why Durham castle became a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The other reason is this Norman archway, which was originally on the outside of the building and again got bricked up. This was discovered when the castle was extended and an internal passage way was added.
Durham Castle also has a second bigger chapel with was built by one of the Prince Bishops, which is also pretty impressive.
We also got to see the Great Hall, which during term time is the dining room for the students. During the summer months, it is used for special events and while we were there, it was being set up for a wedding. What looks like bells on the wall are actually suits of armours.
The Green links the castle, the cathedral and other buildings that are part of the university.
The cathedral
Again, photography is not permitted inside the cathedral so I borrowed some photos from the internet.
This clock amused me as it features a hidden Mickey of sorts.
The are currently building a model of the cathedral out of
Lego. I really want to see this when it is finished.