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The North East of England may be accurately described as a region of contrasts. It presents some of the most sparsely populated areas of stunning natural beauty, in Northumberland, and one of the nightlife and party capitals of the world, in the incredible city of Newcastle upon Tyne. County Durham enjoys something of the best of both and combines this with a liberal dose of history to serve up some terrific Durham venues. Most of these are equally suitable for parties and celebrations as for productive and enjoyable conferences and meetings.
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The county town is the City of Durham and it is the historic, cultural, and commercial heart of the county. Those who like their historic buildings have plenty to choose from and most visitors to the city start with the castle and the cathedral, both of which date from Norman times. Durham Cathedral is a World Heritage Site and regarded as among the best examples of its kind in Europe.
Then there is the rest of the city centre, a conservation zone in its entirety with over 600 listed buildings. Durham venues in the city have a special historic ambience and appeal which is ideal for wedding celebrations and makes an attractive backdrop to meetings too.
The city manages to retain much of its historic character by virtue of its location, on a peninsula defined by the River Wear.
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Building out and up is therefore not possible and thankfully not necessary since the city centre contains a wealth of attractions and a lively cosmopolitan feel with cafes, bars, restaurants and shops, many of which cater for the large student population and a great many leisure visitors. Those in the city on business need not feel left out either since the Durham venues for conferences provide all the adaptable spaces, organisation and technology which form the foundation of any good meeting.
Away from the city, Durham venues offer a whole new set of options. Historic country inns are found in and around many of the charming market towns in the area and have for centuries offered rest, lodgings and sustenance to grateful travellers. They will have the tradition and aged elegance of the city centre venues but with a touch of rustic charm on top. They are also more likely to have gardens and other outdoor areas such as courtyards, which make beautiful spots for wedding photographs. Some will offer all inclusive wedding packages, including the civil or partnership ceremony itself.
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An area with a long cultural history and lots of countryside will generally offer a range of traditional country sports such as hunting, shooting and fishing and this is certainly the case with Durham.
Many such activities are associated with country houses and grand estates, themselves superb venues for business retreats, weekend breaks and classy weddings.
Often the indoor facilities are as impressive as those outside and may include sumptuous spa facilities for the ultimate in relaxation and pampering and also fitness suites, swimming pools, and incredible dining. Meeting and wedding packages will be available and a dedicated event co-ordinator on hand to discuss the available options.
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Dining is something Durham does well and there are fantastic restaurants found throughout, offering everything from out of town fine dining to lively city bistros. Restaurants make popular venues for family gatherings and celebrations and often have private spaces, bookable for the purpose. Other Durham venues include pubs and clubs which may also have private function suites in which to host parties and events. Catering may available within these venues and they will usually have ready made dancing space and music provided by an in-house DJ.Durham
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