Our pre-Christmas visit to two of the UK’s most historic and architecturally celebrated cities begins in York. Soak up the festivities and scenery in vibrant streets with unlimited opportunities for entertainment. The gothic magnificence of the Minster is just one of the draws of a city confident of its place in history and modern cultural life. If one of York’s world famous museums doesn’t grab you and hold you for the whole afternoon, the glittering range of shops just might. But don’t overdo it; there is still dinner, bed and breakfast to enjoy before this dual package of North East gems transports you to Durham.
Durham’s Jingle the Pony is the new Rudolph. Follow him around this thriving, pretty city. Start your journey at the craft marquee in the Palace Gardens, packed with handmade and quirky gifts. Browse the stalls in the cloisters of Durham Cathedral. In one of his best selling books, travel writer Bill Bryson called this building “the best cathedral on planet earth,” and it is well worth a look round; more than half a million visitors seek it out every year. Harry Potter fans will particularly enjoy wandering through corridors that formed some of the set of Hogwarts in the films. Then, if all this activity has made you hungry, sample the local produce and award winning cheeses at the farmer’s market while watching one of the food demonstrations in the heart of the city that claims to have invented mustard.
After checking out the view of the River Wear wending away into the distance, enjoy wandering the streets of this compact, pedestrian city centre. If you are heading for the indoor market, tick off a few presents on your list by dipping in and out of the inviting stalls scattered along the route. After a rest stop in one of Durham’s numerous restaurants, coffee bars or traditional tea rooms, perhaps take in an exhibition in one of the city’s historic buildings. Or take a peek at the live nativity, with its very own cow, sheep and donkey.
As you wander through the city, the fire jugglers, street entertainers and carol singers doing their stuff on almost every corner will make your day complete. There is no shortage of diversions, surprises and seasonal delights in this city that lights up the North East with its fairy-lit festive glow.
