Escape lockdown in a castle in Durham

I returned to Durham a few years ago, for a reunion at my old college, St Cuthbert’s, and I’m pleased to say the city hadn’t changed a bit. When the lockdown has ended, the historic city will be well worth a visit. Travel writer Bill Bryson, in his bestselling Notes From a Small Island, says that Durham is “the best part of the country, it should unseat London as the nation’s capital… if you have never been to Durham, go at once. Take my car. It’s wonderful.” I’d take his advice.

A stroll through the city

Durham is architecturally dominated by its cathedral, which houses the relics of Saint Cuthbert, the patron saint of Northumbria. Regarded as one of the finest examples of Norman architecture in Europe, the cathedral was declared a World Heritage Site by Unesco in 1986, along with Durham Castle. The castle, which was originally built on the orders of William the Conqueror, was given to Durham University at its foundation, and is open to the public for tours. 

The city is small enough to stroll through in an afternoon, and an enjoyable stroll it is too, with its mix of Georgian and Victorian architecture. The River Wear, which bisects the city, is a good spot for getting your bearings and for striking views of the city – either from one of the three bridges that cross the water or from a rented rowing boat or pleasure cruise. The remains of Finchale Priory, which was an important religious centre until Henry VIII’s dissolution of the monasteries, are worth visiting too – they are only four miles from the city centre.

A bit further afield, the Beamish “living museum”, an authentic recreation of a mining village at the turn of the 20th century, makes for a good day out too. Local stately homes include Auckland Castle, and lovers of fine art should head for Bowes Museum, just 30 miles away.

Where to stay

There are several outstanding hotels in Durham itself. The hotel chain Radisson Blu, for example, has an upmarket, four-star establishment in the city with views of the River Wear. Or there’s the Indigo, a quirky four-star hotel in a magnificent Victorian-era building that was once Durham University’s administrative centre.

A bit further out, nearby Sedgefield is home to the Hardwick Hall hotel, which is regarded as the area’s premier luxury hotel. Dating from the 17th century and adjoining Hardwick Country Park, it boasts spacious, well-decorated rooms – the Celebration Suite has its own lounge and garden. The restaurant has a very good reputation and is worth visiting for high tea even if you are staying elsewhere.  

Alternatively, consider a stay in one of the two state rooms at Durham Castle. The Chaplain’s Suite has a double bedroom, bathroom and sitting room, with room for additional guests, and costs £200 a night. The real jewel in the crown, though, is the Bishop’s Suite, which has a four-poster bed and elegant 17th-century tapestries.