Durham hailed as Prague of the North

Good morning, Durham! While Storm Isha makes her way through the county, it’s probably best to stay at home with a cuppa and read the Durham Scoop.

In today’s newsletter:

• Co Durham’s new culture trust

• Durham the Prague of the North

• New restaurant opening in Durham City

• Dear England at the Gala

• And much more!

Let’s get to it.

— Stephen

Was this email forwarded to you?

Durham City hailed as Prague of the North 🇨🇿

In a recent analysis by Sally’s Cottages, Durham City was found to be 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. 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. Read more.

@DURHAMSCOOP

📸 @confessions_of_photo_addict | 📍 Auckland Castle’s deer house

Tag @durhamscoop with your brilliant photos of Durham to get in the Scoop!

THE DIGEST

County Durham unveils new culture trust

The County Durham culture scene is about to get a large boost. A new culture trust has been set up to promote the local arts and heritage scene in the region. Backed by local councillors, this trust will help secure funding for cultural venues and activities, reinforcing the county's rich cultural fabric. Key projects include transforming the former DLI Museum and the completion of The Story of Mount Oswald project. Read more.

Have your say in shaping County Durham's future

Durham County Council is embracing a new approach to empower residents, businesses, and stakeholders in decision-making processes for future development. Moving away from the previous method, which faced criticism for being mere 'wish lists', the council is introducing strategic place plans, with an initial focus on Durham City. Following a recent £30m government funding, pilot reviews are planned for Spennymoor, Shildon, and Newton Aycliffe. As our town centres evolve with a greater focus on leisure and entertainment, your input is crucial in addressing challenges like accessibility and connectivity. Read more.

WEATHER

This weather this week: Clouds with a side of sunshine and a sprinkle of rain! Temperatures play a mild dance but brace for gusty winds from Storm Isha early in the week. It's a weather buffet, so pick your outfit wisely!

Monday, 22nd: Max: 8°C 🌡️ Min: 5°C | 🌤️ Partly cloudy changing to sunny intervals by late morning.

Tuesday, 23rd: Max: 13°C 🌡️ Min: 7°C | ☁️ Cloudy changing to heavy rain by lunchtime.

Wednesday, 24th: Max: 10°C 🌡️ Min: 2°C | 🌥️ Cloudy changing to sunny intervals by late morning.

Thursday, 25th: Max: 10°C 🌡️ Min: 5°C | ☁️ Cloudy.

Friday, 26th: Max: 9°C 🌡️ Min: 2°C | ☁️ Clear changing to cloudy by nighttime.

WHAT’S HAPPENIN’

Moving it up a Notch

Heard the buzz? Notch Durham is the latest culinary sensation gearing up to tantalise taste buds in Durham's city centre. Slated to open this Feb/March on Elvet Bridge, Notch promises an exciting fusion of American slow-smoked BBQ, delectable small plates, and signature cocktails. One of the brains behind the new venture, Dean Saunders said, “After working on this for some time, we’re absolutely buzzing to open the doors of Notch on Elvet Bridge which is situated right in the heart of the city centre!” Good luck!

Watch Dear England at the Gala 🦁

In an audacious blend of sports, drama, and national identity, Durham Gala presents "Dear England," a new play by the acclaimed writer James Graham, starring Joseph Fiennes as he steps into the shoes of Gareth Southgate, offering a profound exploration of England's love affair with football. Tickets are priced at £15 (with a £13 concession rate) and £10 for Gala Members. Get them here.

DURHAM BUSINESS NEWS

Durham's theatre vicinity set for transformation

Durham County Council is inviting developers to reimagine the area where the old council offices currently sit on Claypath. The council plans to demolish the outdated 1960s building which has been empty for several years to pave the way for a sustainable, multi-purpose development that complements Durham's historic heart. The project aims to boost the local economy and culture, offering potential for retail, leisure, or hotel spaces. Expressions of interest are now being accepted, with a focus on enhancing Durham's vibrancy and heritage.

Filtronic secures major defence radar contract

NETPark-based RF technology specialist, Filtronic, has clinched a significant contract with global defence and security company, QinetiQ. This deal involves Filtronic designing and supplying radar system parts set for land, sea, and air applications. This new deal marks a significant achievement for both the company and the local tech community in Durham. Read more.

LIVE MUSIC LOWDOWN

• Sunderland Empire - Fleetwood Mac by Candlelight - Wednesday 24th, 7:30 pm (tickets)

• NE Volume Bar - The Inklings - Friday 26th, 6 pm (tickets)

• Castle Great Hall - Burns Night Reel - Friday 26th, 8:30 pm (tickets)

• The Forum Studio - Nearly Noel Gallagher’s High Flyin’ Birdz - Saturday 27th, 7:30 pm (tickets)

• The Fire Station - Big Girls Don’t Cry - Friday 26th, 7:30 pm (tickets)

• Bar Bianco - Run To You Whitney Tribute - Saturday 27th, 7:30 pm

• The White Room - Tom Waits For No Man - Saturday 27th, 7:45 pm (tickets)

• Vesuvio - Paul Dannatt - Sunday 28th, 4 pm (more info)

THANKS!

Thanks for reading Durham Scoop today. If you found something useful, please share it with someone who is in Durham and not Prague this week.

Sponsor this newsletter? Get your business in front of lovely Durham locals