The very extensive remains of a 13thC priory, founded on the site of a retired pirate’s hermitage, St Goodrich .Part of it later served as a holiday retreat for the monks of Durham Cathedral. Beautifully sited by the River Wear – a most peaceful retreat – English Heritage should install more information within the remains of the Priory as there is only a very small sketch map outside the adjacent shop.
A short riverside walk through the wood brought us to a piggery.
Attached to a flower bed was a Camino sign for the Camino Ingles,which I have walked twice,most recently with Sutton Coldfield Ramblers. If you begin the Camino at A Coruna ,it is under the 100 Km required to obtain your compostela in Santiago- the authorities allow you to make up the distance on designated routes.The priory is situated on such a route and you can obtain a stamp ( sello ), for your pilgrim passport here .
Farewell then to this holy spot and back for a final saunter around “ old Durham town”
A useful, local bus service took us in to Durham for a final visit. The intention being to enjoy the riverside once more and to seek out the quieter backstreets of the old town,principally given over to the University.
Leaving the river and ascending to the bridge, there is this inscription embedded – quite appropriate if a little melancholy…
Returning to the old streets around the Bailey.
Archways and chapels.
Final view of the Cathedral.
https://music.youtube.com/watch?v=K9xcCH1o7S0&feature=share
“ I’m Gonna Leave Old Durham Town” by Roger Whittaker. Takes me back to my Folk club years. A memorable break in County Durham and a sojourn further north. Hopefully even further northwards next time.
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