Worthwhile Day in County Durham
I spent a day recently being shown around County Durham on behalf of the local tourism industry.
I was fortunate enough to be in the capable hands of my friend Jan Williams, one of the finest Blue Badge Guides in the North East.
Jan met me at Durham Station, and took me to Barnard Castle, and for a visit to the fabulous Bowes Museum, as amazing inside as out. We had a coffee in their traditional waitress service tea room.
From there we went on to Raby Castle, with its stout walls and towers, and evocative rooms, all of which is set in an extensive deer park.
We had a quick look at Loco-Motion, a railway based attraction at Shildon, which happily can be accessed by train.
Returning to Durham, we paid a visit to the University`s Botanic Garden, and then to the Oriental Museum, also run by the University, with a most enthusiastic curator.
We enjoyed lunch, kindly provided by Durham Cathedral in their splendid Refectory, and looked at some of the aspects of what is one of England`s finest religious buildings.
Finally, we visited Durham Castle, now part of the University. Although I was of course aware that this was here, I had no idea of how much outstanding Norman architecture remains in place. Astonishing!
All in all it was a wonderful day, and I thank Durham and Jan for their excellent hospitality.
Posted by colin on Tuesday 22nd March, 2011 at 6:30pm