Castles and Cascades

The Durham City skyline is dominated by the Durham Cathedral and Castle UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll along the cobbles of Saddler Street, with its boutiques and eateries, and as you round the corner the breathtaking view will come in to sight.

Built under the orders of William the Conqueror, Durham Castle is now a college of Durham University and offers the unique experience of being led on a tour by one of the students that call the Castle home (during term time at least!).

From a cobbled street to a country road, as you approach Raby Castle, the resident deer may come in to sight before the dramatic view of the Castle is revealed. One of the finest medieval castles in England and a ‘living’ attraction, Raby has been the ancestral home of Lord Barnard since the 17th Century. Join a guided tour to discover his family’s history and amazing collections of art and artefacts, then call in to the tea room for a tasty home made treat.

As you stroll along the secluded tree-lined path to High Force, part of the Raby Estate, you will hear the roar of the waterfall long before it comes in to view as the River Tees spectacularly drops 21 metres in to the plunge pool below. Follow the Waterfall Trail downstream to discover Low Force, and cross the Wynch Bridge for dramatic views.

Tour suggestions…

Full day:
Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle

Full day:
Raby Castle and High Force

Stay longer…

Headlam Hall

Useful information…

SatNav:
Durham Cathedral DH1 3EH
Durham Castle DH1 3RW
Raby Castle DL2 3AH
High Force DL12 0XH