DurhamCounty Durham

Durham Cathedral (Norman masterpiece), Durham Castle, the river walk and a small city whose university gives it a cultural life well above its size

Durham Cathedral was begun in 1093 — it is considered the finest example of Norman Romanesque architecture in England. Durham Castle, directly opposite, was a prince-bishop's palace

Walk completely around the peninsula — Prebends Bridge and the river walk is one of England's most beautiful urban walks. See the cathedral interior — the scale is staggering. Go early.