Durham

Durham's beautiful, Grade 1-listed medieval manor house, Crook Hall, dates from around the 13th century, and is a short distance from the town centre. The house and magnificent gardens are open to the public, and cream teas are served in a pretty courtyard in summer, or in front of a roaring log fire in winter. Most visitors are intrigued by the 17th-century Jacobean room in the house, allegedly haunted by the ghost of the 'White Lady', a niece of a former resident of the house. Crook Hall is one of Durham's most popular attractions and the old family house has charm and character as well as historical appeal. As the gardens are one of the chief attractions there is a discounted ticket price in winter.

Website : www.crookhallgardens.co.uk

Few buildings in the world can claim to have been in constant use for more than 900 years, but the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Durham Castle is one of them. It was originally built in the 11th century (opposite Durham Cathedral), to protect the bishop from 'barbaric northern tribes' in the wake of the Norman Conquest of 1066. Over the centuries the core of the ancient castle remained intact, but there have been numerous renovations and extensions. The castle's aspect today is imposing. The Great Hall is one of the largest in Britain, created by Bishop Antony Bek in the 14th century. Since 1840, when the bishop moved elsewhere, it has housed a college of Durham University. Visitors are welcome to a guided tour, lasting about 45 minutes.

Website : www.dur.ac.uk/durham.castle

Celebrated, together with Durham Castle, as one of Britain's first UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Durham Cathedral is one of the finest examples of Norman architecture in England. Building began on the church in 1093, and it was largely completed after about 40 years. An icon of northeast England, the cathedral was voted as the nation's best-loved building in a nationwide BBC poll held in 2001. Renowned for its immense architecture, ancient history and deep religious roots, the cathedral is a must-see attraction for any visitor to Durham. Guided tours are conducted daily, and offer an informative and enriching way to explore the magnificent structure.

Website : www.durhamcathedral.co.uk

Durham's colourful local history museum is housed in a medieval church, offering some interactive, fun and interesting exhibits that detail the story of Durham, from ancient times to the present day. Situated close to the UNESCO-listed cathedral and castle, the Durham Heritage Centre contains a varied collection of artefacts. Exhibits include fascinating items like the 'Death Chair', used to carry sick boys from Durham School to the infirmary in days of yore, and a chilling recreation of a cell from the notorious Northgate Gaol. The Heritage Centre also has a brass-rubbing centre and offers an audio-visual show of the history of the town. A highly recommended attraction, budget at least two hours to take it all in.

Website : www.durhamheritagecentre.org.uk

A row of stables along the River Wear close to the historic heart of Durham has been converted into a set of creative workspaces, where local artists can be seen at work. Visitors can watch crafts like woodcarving, glasswork, painting, micro brewing, embroidery and textile arts in progress. Fowler's Yard is run by the Durham Dramatic Society and is an exciting initiative, bringing international attention to Durham's hard-at-work local artists. There is also a coffee shop, where tourists can relax and soak up the wonderful atmosphere of the area. There is no charge for entrance and even if you don't but anything watching the work in progress is interesting.

Website : www.fowlersyarddurham.co.uk