A magnificent seventh city has been welcomed into one of the most exclusive 'clubs' in UK tourism.
Durham, in the North East of England, is the latest city to join Britain's Heritage Cities. And its decision to join that group adds yet another world-class destination to a line-up which already proudly boasts as its members Bath, Brighton, Chester, Oxford, Stratford-upon-Avon, and York.
Featured on the shared website
www.heritagecities.com, Britain's Heritage Cities come together to promote their appeal more effectively to an overseas market. Working in close partnership with VisitBritain, their main targets remain the English-speaking long-haul markets - especially the United States of America.
Durham itself is home to one of the most impressive architectural projects ever undertaken in Britain: the Cathedral built as a monumental shrine for the body of St Cuthbert of Lindisfarne, and its neighbouring Castle which acts as protection for the Cathedral. Uniquely located on a hillside within the loop of the meandering River Wear, and described as "one of the finest architectural experiences in Europe" they are, not surprisingly, now designated a World Heritage Site.
Durham City is also an ideal touring base from which to explore nearby Bowes, which contains the greatest collection of European fine and decorative arts in the North; Beamish Open Air Museum, nationally recognised as one of the top attractions in the UK and vividly recreating northern life in years gone by; the Durham Dales, an area officially recognised as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty; and historic Raby Castle. Another worthwhile detour is Seaham Hall, named recently by Conde Nast Magazine as 'Best UK Spa Destination'.
A thousand years of welcoming pilgrims has given Durham a reputation for hospitality. And these days, visitors are able to enjoy a cobbled Market Place, which fills with entertainment and street theatre during the summer months; rowing boats and cruises on board the Prince Bishop with stunning views of the Wear; and a full range of luxury and value-for-money accommodation both within the city centre, and on its outskirts.
Building on its past, Durham is now also focusing on its future - through a 2020 Vision of Durham project, which aims to make notable changes to the city. Some aspects of this are physical, involving changes to the streets and spaces that make up the city. Other elements are more cultural, such as the enormous civic pride and shared sense of history that unite its residents.
A perfect 'match' for Britain's Heritage Cities, Durham therefore not only strengthens the group, but also helps to illustrate the way in which these cities are adding a contemporary twist to their historic roots.
In 2007, Britain's Heritage Cities will also be key partners in VisitBritain's So British campaign, targeting the luxury traveller in the Americas through the promotion of upmarket, relaxing, health, self and leisure breaks.
For full details of all Britain's Heritage Cities, visit
www.heritagecities.com/durham