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Posted April 14, 2014

Student City Guide: Durham

Durham city is one of the most eclectic and interesting places to live in all of the United Kingdom. However, relocating to this bustling mix of the medieval and the modern can be a bit tricky. You may have few friends in this area and unless you have spent a lengthy amount of time here in the past, the chances are quite likely that you will arrive unaware of the city itself. Although the help of current students can prove a wise choice if you are curious as to what Durham has to offer, there are still numerous aspects of this city that are good to know ahead of time.

Transportation Basics As a rule of thumb, it is always best to understand the types of transport that you can expect to encounter in any city. Not only will this help you to get to and from your studies, but this very same transportation will also enable you to experience the sights and attractions that Durham has to offer.

The main form of transport is in the form of a park-and-ride service that begins at the city centre and spreads out to the periphery of the city. You can catch a bus every ten minutes from seven o'clock in the morning until seven o'clock in the evening between Monday and Saturday. The three paths covered are the Belmont, Sniperley and the Howlands routes. Their timetables can be found via the Durham city counsel website.

Of course, there are numerous taxi services if you find that you cannot make a scheduled bus or you wish to travel to lesser-known areas. Finally, if you wish to "go green" and use a bicycle for getting around, there are cycling lanes along several major roads in the city centre.

A Bit of Fun As you are well aware, your postgraduate studies will also involve some much-needed downtime. Thankfully, Durham has a host of entertainment choices that you and your friends can enjoy. One of the best ways to get to know this city is to understand its heritage. Additionally, this can help you unwind after a particularly challenging week. Some of the main must-see attractions include the Durham Cathedral, Crook Hall and Elvet Bridge. While history is interesting, let us not forget that Durham also hosts a bustling nightlife that should not be missed.

The Boathouse Durham is an aptly named bar that is located upon the banks of the River Wear to be found in the city centre. Likely to be the most popular spot for university students, it will offer quality food and drink specials every night of the week. Situated on North Road, Yates Wine Bar is another student favourite for a bit more of a relaxing evening. Also, never forget to check out some of the most popular restaurants such as the Bella Italia and Cinnamon; an Indian establishment located conveniently across the street from Yates Wine Bar. Never forget that there may also be some lesser-known venues that will prove interesting that you will get to know over time.

Staying Active Staying fit should be part of the regime of every postgraduate student. Thanks to Durham's rather rural location, a number of outdoor activities can be enjoyed. The rolling green hills provide excellent jogging and bicycling opportunities while gyms such as Freeman's Quay Leisure Centre will provide you with modern exercise equipment and sporting activities. Still, Durham is quite famous for the sport of rowing and there are a number of rowing clubs that will offer a healthy form of decompression while enjoying the panoramic vistas of the surrounding countryside.

These are some of the best ways to learn about Durham while simultaneously making the best of your leisure time in this amazing city.

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