by Jennifer Cornish

Created on: December 06, 2009   Last Updated: December 07, 2009

Durham Cathedral, built high on a peninsula of land, created by a loop in the River Wear, can be seen from miles around, and is what I consider to be one of the greatest attractions in England. The cathedral at sunset, with the central and western towers dark against a yellow-red skyline is breath-taking.

Bill Bryson described Durham Cathedral as 'the best Cathedral on planet Earth, a sentiment which has been echoed by many people from all over the world. It was also voted Britain's best-loved building in a nationwide BBC poll. It is popular not only for it's architecture, but also for it's amazing setting which I mentioned above.

Durham cathedral has also became very popular with children, as the cloisters area featured in the Harry Potter films, as Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry.

The cathedral is a master-piece of Norman 'Romanesque' architecture, and is the only cathedral in England to retain it's Norman craftmanship. Building began in 1093 and was completed within 40 years. Built as a place of worship and also to house the shrine of St Cuthbert, it was also the home of a Benedictine monastic community.

The nave, quire and transepts are all Norman. At the west end is the Norman style 12th century Galilee Chapel ,and at the east end is the 13th century Gothic style Chapel of the Nine Altars. The central tower dates from the 15th century which displays perpendicular Gothic detailing. The cloisters on the south side contain work from the 15th century and later. Cathedral Close is a quiet area also on the south side and known as 'The College'. It is home to the clergy and also the Chorister School.

Walking around this magnificent building you are in awe of the architecture, and find yourself thinking of it being constructed all those years ago, and the work and craftmanship of the people involved. It does take a while to walk around it as very large. Entry is gained by the North door, which housed the famous gothic Sanctuary Knocker. Folk who banged on this, would receive sanctuary for 37 days and given the choice of trial or exile. A replica sits in it's place now, but the original can still be seen on display inside the cathedral in St Cuthbert's Treasury.

There are some beautiful stained glass windows, particularly in the Galilee Chapel, which is also home to the tomb of The Venerable Bede.

Entrance to the cathedral is free, however you can give a contribution to the upkeep of the cathedral as it does cost over 60,000 a week to maintain

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