Heritage tourism in Durham City is set to benefit from a new Churches, Chapels and Cafes guide, which launched earlier in June.
Developed by Visit County Durham in partnership with Durham City Area Action Partnership, Durham Churches Together and the Durham Diocese, the guide is designed to encourage visitors to extend their length of stay in Durham City by providing the opportunity to learn more and step inside these fascinating buildings.
The guide builds upon the city’s reputation as a world class heritage destination and features 17 churches, each with their own story to tell and role to play in how worship shaped the historic city.
Michelle Gorman, Managing Director at Visit County Durham said, “Heritage is a key element of the city’s tourism offer, and evidence shows that visitors are attracted to destinations with compelling stories. The Durham City Churches, Chapels and Cafés guide brings these buildings to life, through stories of Christian heritage, architecture, stained glass and social history.
“Complemented by some of the best cafés and cosy coffee shops in the city, the guide not only gives us a point of difference to other destinations, but encourages visitors to spend more and stay longer – both key priorities of the Durham Tourism Management Plan.”
Rev. Alan Middleton, Chair at Durham Churches Together said, “The Churches, Chapels and Cafés guide in printed and digital form will enable visitors and residents to discover and enjoy the heritage and treasures of Durham City’s churches. Our churches are grateful to Visit County Durham for producing the guide and we’re looking forward to welcoming new visitors.”
The guide will be distributed across Visit County Durham’s Visitor Information Network and is available online as an interactive map. For more information please visit durhamcitychurchesmap.com.
