Durham always delights

Other cities have rivers flowing through them but the River Wear at Durham  brings the countryside into the heart of the city, providing opportunities for river boat trips, picnicking or just great photography. Follow the river downstream and enjoy a cream tea at enchanting Crook Hall and Gardens . Or stroll through cobbled streets and discover the city’s secret corners along its vennels or narrow alleyways, following in the footsteps of Durham’s earlier residents.

Do you like quirky surprises? There’s a bed in the University of Durham’s Oriental Museum  which is large enough to have its own verandah. And there’s a “Little Count” in the Town Hall who was small enough to sit on a mantelpiece. Intrigued? You will be when you see his clothes.

It’s simple - there is so just so much more to Durham.

The Bowes Museum  in the beautiful Durham Dales  is more than just a fantastic art collection. Who would expect a French Chateau on the edge of a market town in North East England? Yet behind this majestic building is a real human love story between its founders: John and Josephine Bowes. This elegant 19th century couple with exotic tastes must have smiled at their new purchase of a beautiful mechanical Silver Swan.

It will bring a smile to your face, too.