Durham - 5

Durham Cathedral is the greatest Norman building in England, perhaps even in Europe. It is cherished not only for its architecture but also for its incomparable setting. For this reason it was inscribed together with the Castle as one of Britain's first World Heritage Sites. In a nationwide BBC poll held in 2001 it was voted the nation's best-loved building. Like Hadrian's Wall and the Angel of the North, it is an icon of north-east England, its image is instantly recognisable to people who love this part of Britain.



As an enduring monument to human skill and inventiveness, the Cathedral speaks powerfully of heritage and history. Its sheer size and splendour testify to the power of Norman overlords establishing their authority in the land they had conquered. Yet it was primarily built as a religious building: as the shrine of a humble saint, as a destination for pilgrims and as home for a community of worship, learning and practical care. It was built for the glory of God.

Let us build a house where love can dwell
And all can safely live,
A place where saints and children tell
How hearts learn to forgive.
Built of hopes and dreams and visions;
Rock of faith and vault of grace;
Here the love of all shall end divisions:
All are welcome, all are welcome,
All are welcome in this place.

Let us build a house where hands will reach
Beyond the wood and stone
To heal and strengthen, serve and teach,
And live the word they’ve known.
Here the outcast and the stranger
Bear the image of love’s face;
Let us bring an end to fear and danger:
All are welcome, all are welcome,
All are welcome in this place.

Let us build a house where all are named,
Their songs and visions heard
And loved and treasured, taught and claimed
As words within the Word.
Built of tears and cries and laughter,
Prayers of faith and songs of grace;
Let this house proclaim from floor to rafter:
All are welcome, all are welcome,
All are welcome in this place.

Marty Haughen (b.1952)



Unlike so many of our English Cathedrals, there is no admission charge for entering this Cathedral. All are welcome in this place!