The Enigmatic Kathedra: A Gothic Gem in Durham
Explore the Kathedra in Durham, a stunning gothic stone chair by the river, perfect for history lovers and photography enthusiasts alike.
Discover the Kathedra, a stunning gothic stone chair nestled on the banks of the river in Durham. This unique tourist attraction offers a glimpse into the architectural beauty and rich history of the region, making it a must-visit for travelers seeking an unforgettable experience.
A brief summary to Kathedra
- 16A S Bailey, Durham, DH1 3EE, GB
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful atmosphere.
- Bring a camera to capture the intricate details of the gothic architecture and the natural beauty surrounding the site.
- Take a leisurely walk along the riverbank to fully appreciate the scenic views and discover hidden spots for relaxation.
- Consider combining your visit to the Kathedra with nearby attractions for a comprehensive exploration of Durham's rich history.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are near the Durham Cathedral, head south towards the River Wear. From there, follow the path along the riverbank for about 5 minutes until you reach the bridge. Cross the bridge and continue walking until you see the sign for South Bailey. Turn left onto South Bailey, and Kathedra will be on your right at 16A S Bailey.
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Walking
From the Durham Market Place, head towards the Cathedral. Once you reach the Cathedral, walk past it and down the steps towards the river. Follow the river path as it curves to the right. Continue along the river until you reach a small bridge. Cross the bridge, turn left onto South Bailey, and you will find Kathedra at 16A S Bailey.
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Bus
If you are at the bus station in Durham, take the bus number 40 or 42 heading towards the University. Make sure to ask the driver to let you know when you reach the stop near the Cathedral. Once you disembark, walk towards the Cathedral, then follow the river path as described in the previous walking instructions.
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Walking
If you are at the railway station, exit and turn right onto North Road. Walk straight until you reach the Market Place. From there, follow the directions towards the Cathedral, then proceed to the riverbank. This will lead you to South Bailey where Kathedra is located.
Discover more about Kathedra
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Kathedra
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Explore the Kathedra in Durham, a stunning gothic stone chair by the river, perfect for history lovers and photography enthusiasts alike.
Framwellgate Bridge
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Durham’s oldest stone bridge, a medieval marvel offering iconic views of the cathedral and river, steeped in history and timeless charm.
Durham
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Explore Durham Cathedral, a Norman architectural masterpiece and spiritual sanctuary with stunning views, sacred relics, and rich medieval heritage.
Durham British Israel Fellowship
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Discover the Durham British Israel Fellowship: A historical church offering community spirit, stunning architecture, and a glimpse into Durham's rich heritage.
Market place
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Medieval marketplace meets Victorian grandeur—Durham's beating heart of commerce, culture, and community.
Durham Town Hall
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Victorian civic landmark hosting culture, heritage, and community in Durham's historic heart.
Durham Viaduct
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A majestic Victorian railway viaduct soaring over Durham’s River Wear, blending engineering excellence with stunning historic city views.
Maiden's Bower
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Explore Maiden's Bower, a serene Bronze Age cairn nestled in Durham's Flass Vale, where ancient history meets tranquil woodland beauty.
Durham Band Stand
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A peaceful riverside bandstand with one of Durham’s most iconic cathedral views, perfect for quiet moments and photography by the River Wear.
Durham Obelisk
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A hidden 90-foot sandstone tower concealed by woodland, marking Durham's forgotten astronomical heritage.
Maiden Castle Earthwork
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Ludworth Tower
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A rare 15th-century pele tower standing as a testament to medieval border fortifications
The High Level Bridge
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Tyne Bridge
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Quayside
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Quayside is a dynamic riverside district where iconic bridges meet vibrant culture, blending industrial heritage with modern art and lively waterfront life.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Count's House
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A quaint neoclassical riverside summerhouse in Durham, steeped in history and linked to the legendary Count Boruwlaski.
Durham Cathedral
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Museum of Archaeology • Durham University
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Palace Green Library
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Palace Green
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Historic green heart of Durham, framed by Norman cathedral and castle, blending medieval power with academic heritage.
World Heritage Site Visitor Centre
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Free gateway to understanding Durham's UNESCO World Heritage Site and medieval treasures
Department of Classics and Ancient History • Durham University
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Classical scholarship in a medieval setting: Durham's premier centre for ancient languages, philosophy, and Mediterranean studies.
Durham Museum
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Medieval heritage and local history in the heart of historic Durham, near the cathedral.
Riverside walk
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Explore Durham’s scenic 3-mile riverside loop with historic bridges, cathedral views, and tranquil green spaces along the River Wear.
Durham Castle
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Explore over 1000 years of history in Durham Castle, a Norman fortress turned vibrant university college at the heart of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
St Margaret of Antioch Church
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Department of History • Durham University
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Revolution Durham
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Lively lounge and restaurant on Durham’s riverside offering creative cocktails, seasonal British fare, and rooftop views of historic landmarks.
What Lies Beneath Us
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Explore the hidden layers beneath Durham’s historic streets and discover the city’s rich geological and cultural foundations.
Escape Rooms Durham
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Immersive puzzle adventures in Durham's historic centre—from spy missions to gothic mysteries.
Essential places to dine
The Undercroft Restaurant
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Lebaneat
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Whitechurch Durham
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Akarsu Turkish Restaurant & Grill
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Authentic Turkish flavors and vibrant dining in the heart of historic Durham with stunning river and landmark views.
The Curious Mr Fox
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Nadon Thai - Durham
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Zizzi - Durham
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Modern Italian dining in the heart of Durham – wood-fired pizzas, fresh pasta, and a relaxed atmosphere just steps from the cathedral.
The Cellar Door
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Historic riverside dining with seasonal Modern European cuisine and scenic terraces in the heart of Durham.
Flat White Kitchen
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La Spaghettata
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Durham’s longest-standing independent Italian restaurant, serving authentic, hearty Italian dishes in a cozy, welcoming setting since 1996.
Gussto Tapas Bar - Durham
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PESTO ITALIANO
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Tango Durham
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Turkish Kitchen Meze and grill
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Authentic Turkish grilling and meze in Durham's vibrant city centre, where tradition meets modern hospitality.
Fat Hippo Durham
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Cathedral Shop
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Curated gifts and books supporting Durham Cathedral's conservation, housed in medieval undercroft spaces.
The Cutting Edge
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Discover unique handmade gifts and local crafts in the historic heart of Durham at The Cutting Edge.
The Georgian Window
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Italian Clothes Room Inside Georgian Window
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Cloth
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Discover Durham’s hidden basement gem for costumes, vintage clothing, fabrics, and party supplies all in one quirky, creative boutique.
Collected
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A warm, independent bookshop in Durham with curated reads, coffee, cakes, and a lively events programme on The Riverwalk.
Circle Vintage Durham
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Discover Durham’s largest curated vintage clothing collection in a charming historic boutique on Saddler Street.
The Mugwump
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Waceland Durham
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People's Bookshop Durham
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The Edinburgh Woollen Mill
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Rohan Durham - Outdoor Clothing & Walking Gear
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The Boathouse
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Whittard of Chelsea Durham
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
24 North Bailey Club
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Ye Old Elm Tree
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The Fighting Cocks
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Old Toms Gin Bar
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The Angel
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The Holy GrAle
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The Library
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The Shakespeare
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Osbournes
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The Three Bridges
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Blue Eye
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Babylon Durham
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33 Durham
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The Half Moon Inn
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Fabio's Bar
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Klute
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Durham’s iconic, unapologetically rough nightclub famed for nostalgic beats, cheap drinks, and a legendary student party atmosphere.
Jimmy Allens
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Loft Durham
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Discover Loft Durham, the ultimate nightlife destination offering vibrant music, energetic dancing, and a chic atmosphere in the heart of Durham.
Bohemia Durham
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Bohemia Durham pulses with vibrant nightlife energy, offering dynamic music and a lively social scene in the heart of historic Durham.
7even Nightclub
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Sunderland’s alternative nightclub with two floors of indie, soul, and rock music, hosting themed parties and vibrant late-night events.
Warehouse Night Club(SR44)
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Digital
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Experience cutting-edge nightlife with superior sound and vibrant energy at Digital, Newcastle’s premier clubbing destination in Times Square.
Powerhouse
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Newcastle’s iconic four-floor nightclub blending rich LGBTQ+ history with vibrant, inclusive nightlife and dynamic music scenes.
TheCUT Newcastle
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Discover Newcastle’s vibrant alternative nightclub with themed indie, rock, and disco nights in a cozy, unpretentious setting.
Tup Tup Palace
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Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife in style at Tup Tup Palace, a luxurious club blending exotic décor with pulsating beats until the early hours.
The Social Club
22.2 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at The Social Club, where music, cocktails, and dancing come alive until the early hours.
Bohemia Newcastle
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Neon-lit cocktail bar and compact club with graffiti murals, a mezzanine dance space and a sheltered courtyard terrace for late-night socialising.
TROPICANA NEWCASTLE
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Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at Tropicana, a lively nightclub blending cocktail sophistication with energetic club beats in the city’s heart.
Loca Loca | Newcastle
22.2 km
A compact, neon-lit nightclub on Groat Market serving late-night dance, chart and urban sets in an intimate city-centre setting.
