Durham - this page includes links for County Durham and the City Of Durham
Durham, North East England
"Land of the Prince Bishops"
In 1072 William the Conqueror conferred vice-regal powers on Bishop Walcher. From 1072 until
1836 the medieval bishops of Durham used to rule like kings over their lands. The had their own
courts, nobility, armies and even coinage.
Durham Castle was home to the Prince Bishops for almost 800 years.
Durham Castle - This Norman Castle of the Prince Bishops of Durham was founded in 1072.
The Norman chapel dates from 1080 and the Great Hall is mid 13th century.
Durham Cathedral has been a place of prayer and pilgrimage for over 900 years. It contains the remains of Cuthbert,
the seventh century bishop of Lindisfarne and also the tomb of Bede. On a clear day you can see for miles from the tower but be warned you will have to climb 325 steps!
Durham Miners Gala
The Durham Miners Gala or big meeting as it is also known was started in 1871. For pictures and
information read the book "The Durham Miners Gala" published in July 2001 by local historian
Michael Richardson.
Durham Light Infantry Museum
(1/2 mile north west of city centre just off A691).
This museum features the history of the County Regiment from 1758 to 1968
