I have spent the last year enjoying my newfound freedom, learning to live again and slowly getting better day by day. It has been a truly wonderful way to start my new life.
One place in particular that has become quite special to me is Durham Riverside. It has become a tradition to start my Sunday with a walk along the rivers edge before sitting and enjoying the beautiful views of Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle.
The walk itself begins on Framwelgate Bridge, where I often enjoy the view of the trees and river below for a little while before continuing down the stone steps to the riverside. I then make my way along the footpath under the trees, often stopping to watch the ducks swimming beside me and also occasionally seeing a heron land at the waters edge.
After a short but pleasant walk I finally come to what I consider to be my special place. A bench that sits beside a small waterfall. The views from here are quite beautiful, with the river, waterfall and forest ahead of you it is a lovely little piece of the natural world that is accessible from the city itself.
Above the forest the cathedral and castle can be seen, and only add to the charm of the riverside walk. The ancient architecture partially hidden behind the natural scenery really makes this place quite unique.
I love to spend a little while here just taking in the views with the constant sounds of the river and waterfall in the background. It is a calming and peaceful place that I have spent a great deal of the last year enjoying.
Next I wander further along the footpath, making my way to Prebends Bridge which offers lovely views of the natural scenery. I like to spend a little while here watching the water go by before heading across to the other side of the water.
The footpath at the other side is quite magical and begins with a lovely archway of greenery and continues down a winding path through the woods. Here you can spot many different kinds of wildflowers growing along with all different kinds of birds nesting in the trees.
I always find that this little section of the walk is filled with the sounds of the leaves blowing in the breeze and birds chirping overhead. Which only adds to the lovely, magical atmosphere that exists here.
From here I make my way to the final part of the walk, a long forest path that makes its way back into the city. The path is bordered by trees climbing far into the sky above and their branches reaching out overhead, along with the cathedral and castle sitting high upon the hill to your right. This last section through the forest is always a lovely way to end my little wander and is always stunning.
I have found this walk has become a perfect way to start my day, and I always find myself happier for having done it when I come home.
It is for me, my special place.
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