Upon our arrival by train we walked from the station to our Durham rental flat, Fern Cottage. The owner had warned us it was mainly an up-hill climb (1 mile from start to finish), but she did not mention the incredible scenery as we crossed the bridge that spans the River Wear.
Our first full day in Durham we walked around to get acquainted with our temporary home. While the incline into the old town is steep, the view of the castle never gets old.
Walking anywhere in Durham means either walking up or down hill.
Most streets tend to curve or wind as well, so being aware of oncoming traffic is important!
The bustling shopping area (we counted 2 malls as well as all the shops along 3 streets) is decked out for the holiday season.
About a ten minute walk away from the busy street above is the river and one of the many bridges that span the Wear. We crossed this bridge then took the stairs to the pathway that runs alongside and opposite the castle and cathedral.
Everyone appeared to be enjoying the unseasonably warm temperatures and some opted to eat their lunch on one of the many benches.
The views were picture perfect...
And then we crossed another bridge...
...and climbed another hill to return to the fortified city. I made the policeman smile when I suggested both he and John say 'cheese'!
It seems that around every corner is a church.
Tucked in beside and behind a wrought iron fence was a hidden garden.
We meandered back (and up and down and around) to downtown Durham, found a pub and ordered fish and chips, mushy peas and Guinness
Needless to say we didn't eat supper that night!
Returning to Fern Cottage we spotted St. Giles church. It's literally within a stone's throw of our flat.
What an enjoyable day in Durham - made all the more special when we learned it was snowing back home!
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