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First recorded in 1000 as Dunholme. From the Saxon word Dunholme, dun meaning a hill and holme referring to an island in a river (the rocky outcrop where Durham Cathedral now stands). The Normans changed it to Duresme, which was corrupted to Durham. Bishops ruled this area until 1836 so the suffix ‘shire’ was never added: it is County Durham, not Durhamshire. County Durham is a historic and culturally rich area in the north-east of England, known for its remarkable architecture, picturesque landscapes, and significant contributions to the country’s industrial heritage. The county offers a mix of urban centres, historic towns, and beautiful countryside, making it a diverse and fascinating place to explore. Whether you're interested in exploring its iconic landmarks, delving into its industrial past, or enjoying the great outdoors, County Durham offers something for everyone.

Towns and cities

Sunderland:

Sunderland, a city in the metropolitan county of Tyne & Wear has a rich history shaped by its maritime heritage, shipbuilding, and coal mining industries. Located on the River Wear, it grew from a small medieval settlement into a major industrial city during the 19th century. Sunderland’s origins can be traced back to the Anglo-Saxon period. Its name is derived from the Old English words "Sundor-land," meaning "land separated" (likely referring to land by a river or water body). It originally developed as a small fishing village at the mouth of the River Wear. In 1972 the government decided to create the new Tyne & Wear county taking Newcastle from Northumberland and Sunderland from Durham. While Sunderland’s traditional industries have largely disappeared, the city has adapted to modern economic challenges with new industries, cultural regeneration, and education. It remains a proud, working-class city with deep roots in maritime and industrial history. • Angel of the North: One of the most iconic sculptures in the UK, located near Gateshead stands 20 metres (66 feet) tall, making it one of the largest sculptures in the UK. Its wings span 54 metres (177 feet), which is wider than a Boeing 757. The sculpture is made of steel, which was chosen to reflect the industrial heritage of the region, particularly its past in coal mining and shipbuilding. It weighs around 200 tonnes, with 150 tonnes in the body and 50 tonnes in the foundation. Created by renowned British artist Antony Gormley, it was completed in 1998 and has since become a symbol of the north-east of England.

Durham City:

The county town, Durham, is best known for its magnificent cathedral and castle. It is also a lively university city with charming cobbled streets, independent shops, and cultural events. The historic centre is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Darlington:

A market town with a strong railway heritage, Darlington is where the Stockton and Darlington Railway, the world's first passenger railway, was established. The town has a mix of modern amenities and historical attractions, including the Head of Steam Railway Museum.

Bishop Auckland:

A historic town with a rich industrial past, Bishop Auckland is home to Auckland Castle and the annual Kynren show, a spectacular live- action history event that draws visitors from across the country.

Chester-le-Street:

This historic market town is known for its connections to Saint Cuthbert and the Roman fort of Concangis. It is also home to the Riverside Ground, a major venue for cricket matches.

Consett:

Once a thriving steel town, Consett is now a gateway to the North Pennines and offers access to outdoor activities. The town has been redeveloped with new shops, parks, and leisure facilities.

Stanley:

A former coal-mining town, Stanley is now known for the nearby Beamish Museum, one of the region’s top attractions. The town has a strong sense of community and a growing number of amenities.

Seaham:

A coastal town on the North Sea, Seaham has beautiful beaches, a picturesque harbour, and a rich maritime history. The town is also known for its connection to the poet Lord Byron and for the Tommy statue, a tribute to World War I soldiers.

Spennymoor:

A town with a strong mining heritage, Spennymoor has several parks and cultural attractions, including the Tudhoe Colliery, which celebrates the area’s industrial past.

Barnard Castle:

This charming market town is named after its famous medieval castle. It's also home to the Bowes Museum and has a strong reputation for antiques and arts.

Peterlee:

A post-war new town, Peterlee is known for its modernist architecture and proximity to the Durham Heritage Coast, which offers stunning coastal walks and nature reserves.

Area

2,232 sq km / 862 sq miles.

Population

860,000 (2022)

Topography

County Durham is bordered by Northumberland to the north, Tyne and Wear to the north-east, Cumbria to the west, and North Yorkshire to the south. The county is characterized by a variety of landscapes, including the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), the fertile plains of the Durham Vale, and the dramatic cliffs along the North Sea coast. The River Wear flows through the county, particularly through the city of Durham, which is built on a loop of the river.

Commerce

Historically, County Durham was heavily industrialized, with coal mining and steel production being the mainstays of its economy. However, as these industries declined in the 20th century, the county has shifted towards other sectors, including manufacturing, healthcare, education, and tourism. Durham University is one of the leading universities in the UK and plays a significant role in the local economy. The county's rich history, beautiful landscapes, and cultural attractions also make tourism an important industry.

Famous people

Elizabeth Barrett Browning, Anthony Eden Stockton- on-Tees was the birthplace of the cabinet maker Thomas Sheraton, and of John Walker, inventor of the first friction match. James Cook, who was born in Marton in 1728. The Venerable Bede, known as the father of English, lived at Jarrow and lies in Durham cathedral.

Attractions

History

County Durham has a rich history dating back to ancient times, with evidence of early settlements from the Iron Age and Roman periods. The county became particularly significant during the Anglo-Saxon era when it became a centre of Christian learning and culture. One of the most notable historical figures associated with County Durham is Saint Cuthbert, a 7th-century monk and bishop whose shrine in Durham Cathedral became a major pilgrimage site. The county’s historical importance grew during the medieval period, especially with the establishment of the Prince Bishops of Durham, who held both spiritual and temporal power, making the region semi-independent from the rest of England. During the Industrial Revolution, County Durham became a hub for coal mining and railways, contributing significantly to the country’s industrial growth. The county's coalfields, along with the Stockton and Darlington Railway (the world's first public railway to use steam locomotives), played a crucial role in the development of the industrial landscape of the North East.

Culture

County Durham has a vibrant cultural scene, with a range of festivals, museums, and performing arts venues. The Durham Miners' Gala, held annually in Durham City, is one of the largest trade union events in the world and celebrates the county's mining heritage with parades, speeches, and music. The county also has a strong tradition of folk music and dance, with numerous local groups and events celebrating these traditions. The Durham Book Festival and Lumiere Durham, a biennial light festival, are also key cultural events in the region.

Durham Cathedral:

One of the finest examples of Norman architecture in England, Durham Cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It dominates the skyline of Durham City and is renowned for its stunning architecture and the shrine of Saint Cuthbert. The cathedral also houses the remains of the Venerable Bede, an important Anglo-Saxon scholar.

Durham Castle:

Situated next to the cathedral, Durham Castle is another UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was originally built as a fortress by the Normans and later became the residence of the Prince Bishops of Durham. Today, it is part of Durham University and is used as a student residence, but guided tours are available to the public.

Beamish Museum:

Located near Stanley, Beamish is an open-air museum that vividly brings the history of the North East to life. The museum recreates life in the region during the 1820s, 1900s, and 1940s, with working trams, shops, farms, and collieries, allowing visitors to step back in time.

Raby Castle:

One of England's most impressive medieval castles, Raby Castle is located near Staindrop. The castle, with its towering walls, grand interiors, and extensive deer park, offers a fascinating glimpse into the life of the English nobility.

Auckland Castle:

Once the palace of the Prince Bishops of Durham, Auckland Castle in Bishop Auckland is a historic site with beautiful gardens and a fascinating history. The castle has been recently restored and now hosts a range of exhibitions and events.

High Force Waterfall:

Located in the North Pennines, High Force is one of the most spectacular waterfalls in England. The River Tees plunges 21 meters over a rocky precipice, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and hikers.

Bowes Museum:

Located in Barnard Castle, the Bowes Museum is a stunning French-style château housing an impressive collection of European fine and decorative arts. The museum is particularly famous for its Silver Swan automaton.

The North Pennines AONB:

A vast area of moorland, dales, and rivers, the North Pennines is a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It’s perfect for outdoor activities such as hiking, bird watching, and cycling, with highlights including the Pennine Way and Hadrian’s Wall.

Barnard Castle:

This historic market town is named after its well-preserved medieval castle, which overlooks the River Tees. Barnard Castle is also home to antique shops, galleries, and the nearby Bowes Museum.

Myths and Legends

County Durham is steeped in myths and legends, many of which are tied to its religious and industrial history. The story of Saint Cuthbert, who was buried in Durham Cathedral, is central to the county's spiritual heritage. According to legend, the monks who carried his body across the north of England were guided by divine intervention to the site where Durham Cathedral now stands. Another legend is that of the Lambton Worm, a fearsome dragon-like creature that terrorized the local area. The tale of how the heir to the Lambton estate defeated the worm is one of the most famous legends in the north-east of England.

Weather

County Durham experiences a temperate maritime climate, with cool summers and mild winters. The county's weather can vary depending on the location, with the upland areas of the North Pennines receiving more rainfall and experiencing cooler temperatures than the lowland areas to the east.

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