Durham is a truly beautiful city, where the famous Castle and Cathedral - together designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site - dominate the skyline.  

With a population of around 43,000 Durham has a compact, friendly feel but still provides the facilities you would expect of a thriving city including a number of cafés, bars and restaurants, and an array of popular high-street shops.  

If you want a taste of the urban, Durham is only ten minutes away from Newcastle by train, with a regular rail service linking the cities. In Newcastle you'll find a wide range of choices for entertainment, culture and shopping. 

And when your inclination turns to something a bit quieter, there are numerous castles, walks, cycle routes and beaches all within easy reach of Durham City. The open spaces of Northumberland and the North York Moors, and the seaside beaches from Sunderland to South Shields, provide ideal locations for exploring further. 

Here are some links to resources you may find useful, to tell you more about the areas around the University.