Palace Green, Durham

Palace Green is the broad open space at the very heart of the Durham World Heritage Site, sitting between Durham Cathedral to the south and Durham Castle to the north. The lawn was deliberately kept clear in the medieval period so the Prince Bishops could see attackers approaching, and it remains one of the most striking urban set-pieces in England.

Around its edges stand a fine group of historic buildings now largely occupied by Durham University, including the 15th-century Exchequer Building, Bishop Cosin's Hall and the old Grammar School. Palace Green Library, run by the university, holds important collections including the Lindisfarne Gospels loans and hosts regular public exhibitions.

The Green is a pedestrian-only space and free to walk across at any time. It's the natural starting point for a visit to the Cathedral and Castle, and gives you the classic head-on view of the Norman cathedral's west front. Graduation processions, choral events and open-air performances take place here through the year.