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United Kingdom

Whitby Abbey at sunset
It's not really an understatement to say the UK has more than its fair share of historic sites. From ruined abbeys to battle sites, spots of literary inspiration to walks which take you in the footsteps of kings and queens. Here are tipsters favourite places to get to grips with the past
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    Riverside walk

    Posted by chris2005 3 February 2013

    It really is a joy to walk by the river Wear and to take advantage of photo opportunities to take photos of Elvet bridge (the recommended starting point), Kingsgate bridge, Prebends bridge and Framwelgate bridge. Stop for lunch here and lookout for the lovely cute birds which inhabit the riverbank just by Framwelgate bridge. The best route to take is between Elvet bridge (follow the signs for riverside path/walk) and Framwelgate bridge

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    Durham cathedral

    Posted by chris2005 3 February 2013

    One of the most impressive cathedrals I have ever seen. Its twin towers dominate the riverbank. The spiral swirls and designs on the interior columns as well as the exteior and interior arches reminded me so much of the mosque I visited in Córdoba in Spain. The Norman architectural splendour is apparent as you look up to the central tower and at the intricate adornments. Sadly photography is not allowed inside the cathedral but you can pause for reflection and take photos in the quieter cloisters of the adjacent Dominican monastery which has it's wonderful original wooden ceilings.
    From the cloisters you can appreciate the stupendous views and photos of the central tower and nave. Entry is free but a donation is suggested (£5 is sufficient)

    www.durhamcathedral.co.uk/
    Palace Green Town Centre, Durham DH1 3EP
    +44(0)191 386 4266
    Google map: bit.ly/14XhlMo

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    Durham Castle

    Posted by gmmoore65 12 April 2011

    Durham Castle may be overshadowed by its more revered neighbour, the Cathedral Bill Bryson described as “the best on planet earth,” but both are part of a UNESCO World Heritage site and the castle is fascinating in its own right. Not just a historic attraction, the castle is a working college for students at Durham University. Students live in its wood panelled dorm rooms and act as tour guides for visitors. The tours take in several great sights, including the creaking black staircase and original medieval kitchen – and reveal quirky academic traditions like “sporting the oak” - but best of all is the Norman Chapel deep in its bowels. Its historic use as a chapel was only recently discovered by an archaeology post graduate at the University and over the years it has doubled as a bike shed, billiards and table tennis room for students.

    www.dur.ac.uk/university.college/tours/
    The Castle, Palace Green, Durham DH1 3RW
    +44(0)191 334 3800
    Google map: bit.ly/gCNyOc

    Nearest station: Durham Rail Station on the East Coast main line.

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