Durham: An Unexpected English Fairy Tale

Durham, before setting off, was just a name on my travel list, a place I knew little about. However, this journey turned Durham into a vivid English watercolor in my memory, filled with unexpected surprises, joy, and emotions. The moment I arrived in Durham, I was deeply captivated by its unique charm. Unlike the gloomy and damp England I had imagined, the sunlight bathed the ancient stone buildings in a warm golden hue. The air was filled with a fresh scent, mixed with the moisture of the river and the fragrance of the distant fields, making one feel refreshed and invigorated. The winding River Wear flows through the city, with ancient buildings nestled along its banks, creating a beautiful picture. Our first stop was Durham Cathedral. Although this travelogue does not delve into history, I must say that this magnificent building is indeed impressive. We strolled around the cathedral, admiring its solemn and majestic presence, and feeling the sacred atmosphere it exuded. The cathedral square was lush with green grass, pigeons leisurely strolling, and people resting in small groups, enjoying the afternoon sun. We sat on the grass, quietly appreciating the view of the cathedral and savoring this rare tranquility. In the afternoon, we took a walk along the River Wear. The water was crystal clear, reflecting the buildings on both sides and the clouds in the sky. The riverbanks were lined with lush trees and weeping willows, and occasionally, we could see a few wild ducks playing in the water. We walked along the river, enjoying the scenery and the pleasant breeze. There were some charming little cafes and tea rooms by the river, and we chose one with a riverside view, ordered two cups of aromatic coffee, and enjoyed the river view while savoring the afternoon. In the evening, we visited the campus of Durham University. The architectural style here was quaint and elegant, with red brick walls and pointed roofs, exuding the romantic charm of an English college. The campus was shaded with green trees and lush lawns, with students sitting in small groups on the grass, reading and chatting, full of youthful vitality. We strolled around the campus, feeling the strong academic atmosphere and appreciating the beautiful campus scenery. As the sun set, the sky turned a golden red, and we sat on the lawn, quietly admiring this beautiful scene and marveling at the wonders of nature. The next day, we decided to explore the countryside around Durham. We rented bicycles and rode along winding paths through the green fields. The breeze brushed our faces, and the sunlight warmed our skin, making us feel incredibly comfortable. The scenery along the way was breathtaking, with green meadows, blooming flowers, and cows and sheep leisurely grazing, creating an idyllic pastoral scene. We rode along the country roads, marveling at the wonders of nature and enjoying the tranquility and harmony of the countryside. Along the way, we encountered a group of adorable little lambs, their fluffy coats and clear eyes resembling the elves in fairy tales. We couldn't resist stopping to take photos with them. On our last night in Durham, we enjoyed a sumptuous dinner at a restaurant recommended by the locals. The dishes were delicious, made with fresh ingredients and expertly cooked. We savored the food while reminiscing about the past few days, our hearts filled with gratitude and emotion. The restaurant staff were very friendly, enthusiastically introducing the dishes to us and recommending some local specialty drinks. As we left Durham, my heart was filled with reluctance. This city, which I had no concept of initially, brought me so many surprises and emotions. It allowed me to experience the tranquility and beauty of the English countryside and the warmth and friendliness between people. Durham, this unexpected English fairy tale, will forever be etched in my memory as one of the most beautiful memories of my life. It proved that the meaning of travel lies not in how famous the destination is, but in the scenery along the way and the connections you make with the world. Durham, I will definitely come back!