Durham City hailed as ‘Prague of the North’

Durham City has been named as an alternative to Prague due to its charming cobbled streets, architectural marvels and rich history.

In a recent analysis by Sally’s Cottages, using TikTok data to gauge the popularity of non-UK European destinations, Durham City emerges as a UK alternative to the much-loved Prague.

Garnering attention for its striking resemblance to the Czechian capital, Durham offers a compelling blend of heritage and contemporary allure, mirroring Prague’s famous mix of historic charm and modern vibrancy.

With Prague commanding over 3.6 billion views under its TikTok hashtag, its appeal is undeniable. It’s renowned for its rich blend of historical depth and a pulsating creative scene.

Sally’s Cottages said Durham encapsulates a similar essence within the UK. The city’s picturesque streets, adorned with unique boutiques and inviting bars, offer a comparable experience to Prague’s famous lanes.

Durham’s architectural grandeur, especially the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Durham Castle and Cathedral, also draws parallels with Prague’s iconic cityscape.

These sites, particularly resonant with fans of the Harry Potter series, contribute to Durham’s emerging status as a must-visit locale with great places to live for those seeking a mix of historical and pop culture significance.

This recommendation is part of a broader initiative by Sally’s Cottages, aimed at highlighting domestic travel destinations that rival their international counterparts.

Sarah Pring, digital PR manager at Travel Chapter, said that January’s allure of escapism can be satisfied without venturing far. She advocates for discovering the richness of travel experiences available within the UK.

“For many people, January brings the temptation of escapism, however, travel enthusiasts don’t have to travel internationally to experience everything from otherworldly beauty to some of the world’s most historic streets.

“We wanted to demonstrate to travellers that they don’t have to travel far, no matter their preferred type of holidays.”

Other notable UK alternatives presented include Manchester as an answer to Amsterdam and Bath paralleling Budapest.

These recommendations stem from a desire to showcase the diverse travel experiences available locally, encouraging travellers to explore the wonders close to home.