Prebends Bridge
An 18th-century stone bridge framing one of England's most iconic cathedral views
An elegant 18th-century stone bridge spanning the River Wear in Durham's historic centre. Built between 1772 and 1778 by architect George Nicholson, this Grade I listed structure was deliberately positioned to frame spectacular views of Durham Cathedral and the surrounding wooded riverbanks. Originally serving as a private road for the Dean and Chapter of Durham, it now functions primarily as a pedestrian crossing, offering one of England's most iconic postcard perspectives and serving as a beloved gateway to the cathedral for thousands of visitors annually.
A brief summary to Prebends Bridge
- Prebends Bridge, S Bailey, Durham, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during autumn mornings when golden light illuminates the cathedral towers and trees display vibrant fall colours. The low morning crowds and calm water create mirror-like reflections ideal for photography.
- Descend from the town centre shops via South Bailey to the riverbank for a peaceful walk. The riverside path offers solitude and natural beauty, especially during quieter weekday hours.
- Position yourself on the bridge at different times of day to capture varying light on the cathedral. Late afternoon provides warm, dramatic illumination; overcast days offer softer, more ethereal tones.
- Read the Walter Scott plaque on the bridge to connect with the Romantic literary tradition that inspired this location's design. Scott's words capture the essence of what the bridge's architects sought to create.
- Allow time to explore the Durham School Boat Club's boat house visible from the bridge and the surrounding woodland paths. The riverside environment extends the experience beyond the bridge itself.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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On foot from Durham City Centre
From the Market Place in Durham's city centre, walk south along South Bailey for approximately 5–8 minutes. The street descends gradually toward the river. Prebends Bridge is located at the end of South Bailey, just beyond St Cuthbert's Society. The walk is straightforward and accessible, passing historic buildings and eventually opening to riverside views. No parking is required for this approach.
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By car with parking
Drive to the Clayport Library car park or the nearby Walkergate car park, both within 10–15 minutes' walk of Prebends Bridge. From Clayport, descend through the city centre toward South Bailey. Alternatively, use the Gala Theatre car park. All car parks charge standard Durham city rates (typically £1.50–£2.50 per hour, with daily maximums around £6–£8). The bridge itself has no dedicated parking; it is pedestrian-focused.
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By bus from Durham Bus Station
Local buses serve the city centre regularly. Alight at stops near the Market Place or Cathedral area, then walk south along South Bailey toward the river. Journey time from the bus station to the bridge on foot is approximately 10–12 minutes. Single fares typically cost £1.50–£2.50 depending on distance. Buses run frequently throughout the day.
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From Durham Railway Station
Walk north from Durham Railway Station through the city centre toward the Market Place, then proceed south along South Bailey to Prebends Bridge. Total walking time is approximately 15–20 minutes. The route is well-signposted and passes through the historic heart of Durham. No transport costs apply once you have arrived at the station.
Prebends Bridge location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Prebends Bridge
A Bridge Designed for Beauty
Prebends Bridge stands as a masterpiece of 18th-century aesthetic engineering. When architect George Nicholson designed this stone-arch bridge between 1772 and 1778, he made a deliberate choice to position it slightly north of its predecessor, at a wider section of the River Wear. This decision was not merely practical—it was intentional landscape design. The bridge was built specifically to maximize the visual impact of Durham Cathedral's towers and the picturesque wooded riverbanks. Trees were planted along the water's edge to complete the Romantic vision, transforming the site into one of England's most celebrated views. The bridge's three semicircular stone arches feature distinctive architectural details, including triangular cutwaters with semi-hexagonal geometry and a dentilated arch ring. Waterspouts positioned strategically along the elevations demonstrate sophisticated drainage planning, with scalloped humps visible in the road surface directing water toward these outlets—an unusual engineering refinement rarely seen in masonry bridges of the period.From Private Access to Public Treasure
Originally constructed on the instructions of the Dean of Durham, Prebends Bridge served as a private road providing exclusive access for the Dean and Chapter through the Watergate from the south. This ecclesiastical function shaped its early purpose, yet the bridge's location at the end of South Bailey, just beyond St Cuthbert's Society, gradually transformed it into a public amenity. Although the structure is wide enough to accommodate vehicles, it has functioned primarily as a footbridge for decades, leading only to riverside paths and a closed road barrier. The bridge's role shifted entirely following the devastating floods of 1771, which swept away an earlier timber bridge built on stone piers that had stood since 1574. Prebends Bridge replaced that lost structure, becoming not merely a functional crossing but a symbol of Durham's resilience and architectural ambition.Literary Legacy and Cultural Significance
The bridge carries profound cultural weight through its association with Sir Walter Scott, the celebrated Scottish author. A plaque affixed to the bridge displays an extract from Scott's poem Harold the Dauntless, published anonymously in 1817, capturing his romantic vision of Durham: "Grey towers of Durham, Yet well I love thy mixed and massive piles, Half church of God, half castle 'gainst the Scot, And long to roam these venerable aisles, With records stored of deeds long since forgot." The artist J.M.W. Turner, one of England's greatest landscape painters, frequently painted from this vantage point, immortalizing the bridge and cathedral in his watercolours. These artistic endorsements cemented Prebends Bridge's status as one of Britain's most significant viewpoints, attracting artists, writers, and visitors seeking to capture the essence of Durham's medieval grandeur.Preservation and Structural Heritage
As a Grade I listed building and part of the Durham Castle and Cathedral UNESCO World Heritage Site, Prebends Bridge represents a crucial element of England's architectural heritage. The structure underwent comprehensive restoration between 1955 and 1956, and further significant conservation work was undertaken in 2011–2012 to address masonry deterioration caused by poor drainage and water infiltration through the road deck. The bridge was temporarily reopened to limited road traffic in autumn 2010 while Saddler Street underwent extensive repaving as part of the Heart of the City project. Today, the bridge remains under the stewardship of Durham Cathedral, which maintains responsibility for its upkeep. Future restoration projects are anticipated to be substantial undertakings, reflecting the complexity of preserving such a historically significant structure while ensuring its continued accessibility to the thousands of visitors who cross it annually to reach the cathedral.The Three Bridges of Durham
Prebends Bridge forms part of Durham's remarkable collection of historic stone-arch bridges. Alongside Framwellgate Bridge, constructed in 1127 by Bishop Flambard and representing Durham's oldest crossing, and Elvet Bridge, built between 1170 and 1195 by Bishop Hugh Le Puiset, these three structures span the River Wear in the city centre. Each bridge tells a distinct story of Durham's medieval and post-medieval development. Framwellgate served as the main entrance to the city and was originally lined with shops and booths; Elvet Bridge once featured gates as part of the city's defensive system. Prebends Bridge, the youngest of the three, represents a shift toward aesthetic considerations in bridge design, reflecting Enlightenment ideals about landscape and the relationship between architecture and nature.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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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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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.
Maiden Castle Earthwork
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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.
Ludworth Tower
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The High Level Bridge
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Tyne Bridge
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Quayside
22.0 km
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
0.2 km
A quaint neoclassical riverside summerhouse in Durham, steeped in history and linked to the legendary Count Boruwlaski.
Durham Cathedral
0.3 km
Discover Durham Cathedral’s Norman grandeur, sacred relics, and breathtaking views in the heart of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Museum of Archaeology • Durham University
0.4 km
Explore northeast England’s ancient past in a historic university library at the heart of Durham’s UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Palace Green Library
0.4 km
Explore Durham’s historic Palace Green Library, a treasure trove of rare books, exhibitions, and heritage in the heart of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
What Lies Beneath Us
0.4 km
Explore the hidden layers beneath Durham’s historic streets and discover the city’s rich geological and cultural foundations.
Department of Classics and Ancient History • Durham University
0.4 km
Classical scholarship in a medieval setting: Durham's premier centre for ancient languages, philosophy, and Mediterranean studies.
Palace Green
0.4 km
Historic green heart of Durham, framed by Norman cathedral and castle, blending medieval power with academic heritage.
World Heritage Site Visitor Centre
0.4 km
Free gateway to understanding Durham's UNESCO World Heritage Site and medieval treasures
Durham Museum
0.5 km
Medieval heritage and local history in the heart of historic Durham, near the cathedral.
Riverside walk
0.5 km
Explore Durham’s scenic 3-mile riverside loop with historic bridges, cathedral views, and tranquil green spaces along the River Wear.
Durham Castle
0.5 km
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
0.5 km
Discover Durham’s historic St Margaret of Antioch Church, a Norman gem blending centuries of architecture, art, and vibrant worship near the World Heritage site.
Department of History • Durham University
0.6 km
Explore history where Durham’s rich past meets vibrant academic excellence at the University’s historic North Bailey location.
Revolution Durham
0.6 km
Lively lounge and restaurant on Durham’s riverside offering creative cocktails, seasonal British fare, and rooftop views of historic landmarks.
Beechnut park
0.6 km
A quiet, family-friendly green space in central Durham, perfect for picnics, play, and peaceful walks among trees and lawns.
Essential places to dine
The Undercroft Restaurant
0.3 km
Historic charm meets locally sourced British fare in Durham Cathedral’s tranquil medieval café.
Whitechurch Durham
0.4 km
Cozy and festive dining in Durham’s historic heart, offering versatile café, breakfast, and pub fare with friendly service and moderate prices.
Lebaneat
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Experience authentic Lebanese flavors with generous portions and diverse dietary options in the heart of historic Durham.
Akarsu Turkish Restaurant & Grill
0.6 km
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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A stylish riverside restaurant and cocktail bar in Durham, famed for fresh British dishes, quirky décor, and expertly crafted drinks.
Nadon Thai - Durham
0.6 km
Experience authentic northern Thai flavors and warm hospitality in the heart of Durham’s historic Crossgate.
The Rabbit Hole
0.6 km
A 1920s Shanghai supper club with live jazz, Cantonese fusion cuisine, and intimate vintage elegance.
Zizzi - Durham
0.6 km
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
0.6 km
Historic riverside dining with seasonal Modern European cuisine and scenic terraces in the heart of Durham.
Flat White Kitchen
0.6 km
Experience Durham’s finest coffee and brunch in a cozy 17th-century townhouse with a modern rustic vibe and welcoming atmosphere.
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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Authentic Spanish tapas in a historic riverside setting at the heart of Durham.
PESTO ITALIANO
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Experience authentic Italian cuisine with warm hospitality in the heart of historic Durham at Pesto Italiano.
Tango Durham
0.6 km
Lively American-style burgers, fresh local produce, and creative cocktails in Durham’s vibrant city centre with riverside terrace dining.
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.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Cathedral Shop
0.3 km
Curated gifts and books supporting Durham Cathedral's conservation, housed in medieval undercroft spaces.
The Cutting Edge
0.5 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and local crafts in the historic heart of Durham at The Cutting Edge.
The Georgian Window
0.6 km
Discover stylish ladies’ fashion, unique gifts, and elegant accessories in the heart of Durham at The Georgian Window.
Italian Clothes Room Inside Georgian Window
0.6 km
Discover elegant Italian fashion in Durham’s historic Georgian window boutique, blending timeless style with personalized service.
Cloth
0.6 km
Discover Durham’s hidden basement gem for costumes, vintage clothing, fabrics, and party supplies all in one quirky, creative boutique.
Collected
0.6 km
A warm, independent bookshop in Durham with curated reads, coffee, cakes, and a lively events programme on The Riverwalk.
Circle Vintage Durham
0.6 km
Discover Durham’s largest curated vintage clothing collection in a charming historic boutique on Saddler Street.
The Mugwump
0.6 km
Discover Durham’s iconic boutique blending vintage fashion, unique gifts, and local art in a charming historic setting.
Waceland Durham
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Discover handpicked vintage gems and streetwear essentials in a family-run boutique at the heart of Durham’s Saddler Street.
People's Bookshop Durham
0.7 km
Discover Durham’s vibrant radical bookshop, a volunteer-run haven for second-hand books and community stories.
The Edinburgh Woollen Mill
0.7 km
Discover timeless Scottish knitwear and heritage fabrics at The Edinburgh Woollen Mill in Durham’s historic Saddler Street.
Rohan Durham - Outdoor Clothing & Walking Gear
0.7 km
Discover Rohan Durham, your premier destination for high-quality outdoor clothing and gear, perfect for every adventurer in the beautiful English countryside.
The Boathouse
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Discover unique clothing and accessories at The Boathouse in Durham, a charming shop showcasing local designs and a welcoming atmosphere.
7 Day Store
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Discover authentic Asian flavors and ingredients at Durham’s vibrant 7 Day Store, open daily for your culinary adventures.
Sasa Girls
0.7 km
Discover stylish, locally crafted fashion accessories at Sasa Girls, Durham’s charming boutique for unique and trendy pieces.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
24 North Bailey Club
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Durham students’ beloved late-night bar and social club, blending historic charm with lively events on the iconic North Bailey.
Ye Old Elm Tree
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Historic Durham pub blending centuries-old charm with a lively, welcoming atmosphere and excellent real ales.
The Fighting Cocks
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A lively, affordable pub in Durham’s city centre, perfect for casual drinks and socializing in a friendly, unpretentious setting.
The Angel
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A cozy and vibrant traditional pub in Durham, offering local ales, hearty meals, and lively events in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Holy GrAle
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Discover Durham’s vibrant craft beer scene at The Holy GrAle, a quirky bar with local brews, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Old Toms Gin Bar
0.6 km
Discover Durham’s riverside gem with over 250 gins, artisan boards, and expert Ginologists crafting unforgettable cocktails.
The Library
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A lively pub and social hub in Durham offering quality drinks, creative vegan dishes, and a quirky, welcoming atmosphere from morning till late.
The Shakespeare
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A historic and quirky Durham pub famed for its real ales, theatrical roots, and ghostly tales in a cosy 12th-century setting.
Osbournes
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A vibrant, intimate bar and club in Durham known for its lively music nights, extensive gin selection, and welcoming local vibe.
The Three Bridges
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A lively British pub in Durham blending traditional charm with modern dining, drinks, and sports in a welcoming atmosphere.
Blue Eye
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Durham’s stylish cocktail bar with creative drinks, lively vibes, and a welcoming atmosphere on historic Elvet Bridge.
Babylon Durham
0.7 km
A buzzing, budget-friendly bar and nightclub in Durham offering lively nights, packed dance floors, and a true local nightlife experience.
33 Durham
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Discover 33 Durham, a cozy speakeasy cocktail bar blending vintage charm with expertly crafted drinks in the heart of Durham city.
Tin Of Sardines Gin Bar - Durham
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Discover Durham’s tiniest gin bar with a colossal selection, expert service, and an intimate, unforgettable atmosphere on Elvet Bridge.
The Half Moon Inn
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Historic Tudor pub on Durham’s riverside offering award-winning ales, scenic courtyard views, and a warm local atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Fabio's Bar
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Durham’s lively student nightclub and live music bar above the iconic La Spaghettata, buzzing with events and authentic local charm.
Klute
0.7 km
Durham’s iconic, unapologetically rough nightclub famed for nostalgic beats, cheap drinks, and a legendary student party atmosphere.
Jimmy Allens
0.7 km
Dive into Durham’s iconic vaulted nightclub where free entry, cheap drinks, and lively crowds create unforgettable nights beneath Elvet Bridge.
Loft Durham
0.7 km
Discover Loft Durham, the ultimate nightlife destination offering vibrant music, energetic dancing, and a chic atmosphere in the heart of Durham.
Bohemia Durham
0.9 km
Bohemia Durham pulses with vibrant nightlife energy, offering dynamic music and a lively social scene in the heart of historic Durham.
7even Nightclub
19.3 km
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)
22.0 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant underground gay nightclub scene at Warehouse Night Club (SR44), where eclectic music and lively parties come alive.
Digital
22.0 km
Experience cutting-edge nightlife with superior sound and vibrant energy at Digital, Newcastle’s premier clubbing destination in Times Square.
Powerhouse
22.1 km
Newcastle’s iconic four-floor nightclub blending rich LGBTQ+ history with vibrant, inclusive nightlife and dynamic music scenes.
TheCUT Newcastle
22.2 km
Discover Newcastle’s vibrant alternative nightclub with themed indie, rock, and disco nights in a cozy, unpretentious setting.
Tup Tup Palace
22.2 km
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
22.3 km
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
22.3 km
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
22.3 km
A compact, neon-lit nightclub on Groat Market serving late-night dance, chart and urban sets in an intimate city-centre setting.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Romantic
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Mindfulness
- Meditation Spot
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
- Myth & Legends
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
