The Durham Christmas gift guide

Good morning, Durham. It’s been a week of snow and festive cheer. The snow is going to stop but the festivities continue.

In today’s Durham Scoop:

• The Durham Christmas gift guide

• Durham restaurant garners acclaim in Michelin Guide

• 18 of Durham’s famous sons and daughters

• So much more!

Let’s get to it.

— Stephen Davies

The Durham Christmas gift guide 2023

As the festive season unfolds, we're excited to share with you the Durham Christmas Gift Guide for 2023, a curated selection of the finest local offerings.

This year, dive into the heart of Durham's artisanal charm and explore an array of unique, high-quality gifts, each reflecting the rich creativity and passion of our local artisans.

From La Chocolatrice's indulgent handcrafted chocolates to the sartorial elegance at Woven Durham, and the aromatic wonders of Durham Coffee, our guide showcases the best of Durham's local shops and boutiques.

Find that perfect gift for your loved ones, all while supporting Durham’s local businesses and artisans - visit durhamscoop.uk.

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THE DIGEST

Durham restaurant garners acclaim in Michelin Guide 🍴

Faru, the fine dining restaurant in Durham's city centre, has swiftly garnered acclaim by being listed as a Michelin Guide favourite just eight months post-opening.

Situated on Silver Street and led by Jake and Laura Siddle, Faru impresses with its 10-course and five-course seasonal tasting menus. Embracing seasonality and quality, Faru, whose name signifies 'journey', has been lauded for its contemporary style, open kitchen, and thoughtful flavour combinations.

This recognition by Michelin marks a significant achievement for the Siddles and their team, highlighting Faru as a standout addition to Durham's dining scene which is great for the city. Congratulations! 🥂

Durham Christmas Festival brought the festive cheer 🎄

The Durham Christmas Festival took place over the weekend from Friday to Sunday with more than 200 independent traders showcasing their foods, drinks, and products. The Durham Scoop team went along to the marquee on Palace Green on Sunday and needless to say, it thoroughly kicked off our festive cheer! Check out our Instagram Reel of the Festival here.

With thanks to Durham Markets, Durham BID, Durham University, Durham Cathedral, Durham City Parish Council and Durham Council for organising!

18 of Durham’s famous sons and daughters

How well do you know Durham’s famous sons and daughters? The county is celebrated not only for its breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage but also as the birthplace of some of the most influential figures in various realms of the arts, sports, and beyond.

This article shines a spotlight on notable and famous personalities who have their roots in Durham and who have carved out a distinct path to success leaving an indelible mark in their respective fields.

Have we missed anyone? Let us know. Share your picks with us on Facebook or Instagram.

WEATHER

The good news is, it’s going to be warmer this week than it was last week. The bad news is there won’t be any more snow (although that may be good news to some).

Monday

6 🌡️ 4 | 🌧️ | 💨 NE 12 mph

Tuesday 

5 🌡️ -1 | ☁️ | 💨 NNE 10 mph

Wednesday 

4 🌡️ 1 | ☁️ | 💨 ESE 8 mph

Thursday 

6 🌡️ 4 | 🌨️ | 💨 SE 14 mph

Friday 

8 🌡️ 4 | 🌧️ | 💨 ENE 11 mph

WHAT’S HAPPENIN’

Christmas Carols – Durham Miners Brass Band 🎺

What better way to sing in the festive season than with Christmas carols at Ushaw. Taking place in St Cuthbert’s Chapel on 4th December, the Durham Miners’ Association Brass Band will play a program of traditional Christmas music and carols, with the opportunity to join in with singing carols. Sing your heart out, then sip mulled wine and indulge in a festive mince pie – a fantastic festive treat for all the family. Book tickets.

Rudy’s Pizza Napoletana opens this week 🍕

Rudy’s Pizza Napoletana is set to open its doors in Durham City on 6th December, marking the popular chain's first foray into North East England. Occupying a refurbished two-floor space, formerly a Superdry store on Silver Street, this authentic Neapolitan pizzeria brings a slice of Naples. The venue boasts 120 seat capacity with Rudy’s crafting their pizzas with daily-made fresh dough using Caputo ‘00’ flour and ingredients sourced directly from Naples. Reserve your table.

World’s top pool players head to Durham 🎱

Durham is set to host an unprecedented pool competition, featuring the world's top-ranked players. Spearheaded by Martin Rogers, owner of Kitt's Pool Room & Bar in Durham City, the event promises high stakes and thrilling matches. Among the notable participants is Wade 'The Blade' Morley, renowned for his skill and competitive spirit.

This first-of-its-kind competition in the region is not just a sports event; it's a showcase of exceptional talent and a celebration of the pool community. Expect excitement, skilful plays, and a new chapter in pool history. The event, which is free to attend, kicks off at 6 pm, 8th December with the semi-finals and the grand final being held on Sunday, 10th December.

Murder & Mulled Wine 🍷 🔪

Ushaw House is inviting visitors to the festive event 'Murder & Mulled Wine'. Set against the backdrop of the year 1932, this unique Christmas celebration on the 9th December promises more than just seasonal cheer. Instead, you’ll find yourself amidst a gripping murder mystery, where the joviality of Lord Jolyon Jape's annual Christmas party is overshadowed by a baffling crime - a body discovered in the library. Guests are invited to don their detective hats and unravel the mystery while enjoying a sumptuous three-course meal provided by Greedy Goose Catering. The murder event runs from 7 pm to 10:30 pm and tickets can be bought here.

DURHAM BUSINESS NEWS

Durham robotics company links $47 million deal with US State of California 🤖

In a landmark achievement in Durham’s burgeoning technology sector, NETPark-based robotics company Wootzano has recently inked a groundbreaking $47 million contract, spotlighting the region's growing influence in the global tech landscape.

This significant three-year deal with the state of California for their advanced Avarai robotic system — a solution adept at handling delicate, soft produce — not only fortifies Wootzano's position as a trailblazer in technology but also underscores the company's innovative approach to addressing labour shortages in agriculture. More on the Northern Echo.

State-of-the-art football centre revamp launched to nurture the region’s football talent ⚽️

In a landmark development for County Durham, the Beamish Football Centre is set for a £1.6 million makeover, aimed to elevate the facility to Premier League standards, catering to both male and female footballing talent.

Funded by the Youth Investment Fund, this project will transform the centre into a premier community hub for both sports and education. The upgrade includes enhanced training facilities, new social spaces, and expanded educational rooms. Work is set to commence in January 2024, marking a new era for the centre and the community. More on Business Durham.

THANKS!

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