Exploring Durham History

Publisher's Note

In 1998, Breedon Publishing produced Exploring Durham History by Philip Nixon and Denis Dunlop.

  For the purposes of publishing this title as an e-book, it has been divided into three smaller, more specific areas so that the reader can pick and choose the individual part of the book that most attracts their interest without having to purchase the whole title in its entirety.


Each of the three e-books include from the original title:


·      the Introduction


·      the Acknowledgements


Unfortunately, due to the nature of e-books, there is no index.


Exploring Durham History is a subtle blend of contemporary photography and historical fact. Tinged with folklore and mystery it takes us on an exciting journey through the history of The Land of the Prince Bishops. Lesser-known sites are balanced with a selection of the more familiar choices.

The Prince Bishops of Durham were not only spiritual leaders: their military prowess was also highly respected, and both aspects are now remembered in the rich legacy of their fortifications and the castles of their influential supporters.

County Durham was at the forefront of the Industrial Revolution. This was a time that brought great prosperity for some, but hardship for others. The coming of the railway had far-reaching consequences for the north-east, and the encroachment of industrialisation shaped the destiny of the region into the 20th century and beyond.


The colourful threads that run through County Durham history have produced a rich tapestry of heritage that is portrayed in all its glory in Exploring Durham History. This great value paperback edition is sure to appeal to all local history enthusiasts and is a visual treat as well as a fascinating read.