It has been revealed that Durham is one step closer to becoming 2025's coveted City of Culture, with the Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport announcing the county as one of just four locations from across the UK to be shortlisted
Following the announcement, Durham County Council, Durham University and Culture Durham – the partners spearheading the Durham 2025 campaign - wasted no time in sharing their gratitude for the thousands of individuals, businesses and organisations that have not only backed the campaign, but helped to shape the bid itself.
On the right tracks, Durham in-turn now hopes to follow on from Coventry which was named as the UK's City of Culture 2021 - narrowly topping Sunderland which was also shortlisted for last year's crown.
Read more: Durham Brass Festival promises to be a blast this summer with its award-winning line-up
But what is it that makes Durham so special that it should be awarded the coveted accolade when the next ceremony comes along?
Here at Chronicle Live, we thought we would share 10 things that breathe culture into Durham, placing it a cut above the rest.
Ten reasons why Durham should be the City of Culture 2025:
1. It has a breathtaking Cathedral
Towering over the city centre itself is Durham Cathedral - a fully operational church, pilgrimage destination, and family day out all wrapped into one.
Built in 1093, Durham Cathedral is not solely a North East icon renowned by the people of the region, but it also has frequent visitors from further afield coming to take in its breathtaking architecture, holy phenomenon and historic tales from days past.
2. The Lumiere festival is fantastic
The first Lumiere to take place in Durham in 2009 was initially planned as a standalone one-off event, but due to it's popularity, Durham County Council have decided to bring it back every year since it's debut - with the help of sponsors and official partners.
A festival of light taking place in the winter, the Lumiere offers visitors a spectacle to be seen year in, year out, pulling visitors from across the country to come and wander the city centre in amazement. Some 240,000 visitors came to the Lumiere in Durham in 2017, which is a record set in stone in terms of numbers for the event itself.
3. Durham University is one of the UK's leading educational establishments
As a member of the Russell Group of leading research-intensive UK universities, as well as consistently finding themselves ranked in national league tables as a top 10 uni, Durham University is certainly one of the UK's leading establishments for study.
In 2021, Durham was also ranked in the world top 40 for employability opportunities of past and present students in terms of blue-chip companies.
4. It holds surreal views of the River Wear
Nature lovers around the North East will fail to find better views of the River Wear than that on the banks in Durham. The river, which runs through the city centre can be viewed from a multitude of locations, with serene woodland and peaceful visages surrounding.
It is also encompassed by Grade I-listed masonry arch bridges, which date back to the 1400s - yet again calling back to the phenomenal history and eritage of the area. Those feeling brave can also take boat trips along the river itself, or rent out a rowing boat for a romantic cruise with a partner.
5. The Oriental Museum contains an abundance of history
Jam-packed to the brim with an abundance of culture is the Oriental Museum within the city centre itself. Situated on Elvet Hill Road, the museum displays a collection of over 23,500 far east and Asian artifacts - with vast amounts of heritage from China, Egypt, Korea, India and Japan on show for history buffs alike.
There's also a fantastic park surrounding it, for those who want a walk in the sunshine.
6. Durham Pride is one of the biggest LGBT+ events in the North East
Durham's Pride festival is no doubt one of the largest in the entirety of the North East - with an annual march through Durham City itself taking place each year.
As a celebration for the LGBT+ community, there's plenty to experience at Pride. Performers and speakers take to the main stage to entertain and inspire crowds in their thousands, while food and drink vendors gather to refresh the sea of colour. Markets and stalls are also a big feature year in, year out - in a family friendly day of fun across Durham City Centre.
7. The East Durham coast is spectacular
From Seaham Blast to Crimdon Dene, make no mistake that Durham has some of the most spectacular beaches on the North East's complete coastline. There's something for everyone on the East Durham Coast, from those looking for adventure with friends, to dog walkers allowing their pooch a good run-out.
8. Durham Castle and the history it holds
Seated at the heart of Durham's world-class heritage site, occupied since the 11th century, Durham Castle is a spectacle to behold.
Open to the general public for daily tours, visitors can expect to see some of the regions finest historical architecture while learning of past tales regarding the building itself. From dated stained glass, to fine art and armour - Durham Castle holds a plethora of interesting archives for the full family to learn from.
9. Durham Market is an experience
Established in 1851, Durham Market has became a weekly staple for local produce traders and family run businesses alike. Situated in the historic Market Hall tradition meets contemporary retail for all to enjoy.
With over 40 independent retailers regularly featuring on the stalls, there is plenty to take in and browse within the bustling setting itself. More than just a market, it's full-on experience to remember.
10. So many parks and green spaces
Wherever you turn in Durham, there's ample green spaces to relax, take a load off, and let off some steam - giving it a diverse mixture of hustle and bustle and serenity.
Wharton Park which covers 10 acres of land is the perfect place to let kids frolic in the sun, while the Palace Green situated outside the Cathedral makes for a spectacular picnic spot on warmer days.
There's also Durham University's Botanical Garden offering a wide variety of landscapes to adventure in, leaving visitors old and young coming back time and time again.
