20, Prince Bishop, Sunderland to Durham

As the number 20 bus departs Sunderland Interchange, the bustling heart of the city quickly gives way to a more open landscape. Initially surrounded by retail units and modern buildings, the bus joins Durham Road, heading southwest. The view soon shifts to rows of early 20th-century red-brick terraces, interspersed with small shops, takeaways, and leafy side streets.

Climbing gradually, the bus reaches East Herrington, where wide tree-lined pavements and suburban semis give a peaceful, residential feel. To the left, occasional breaks in the houses reveal sweeping views across Wearside's undulating hills, often golden with fields in summer or dusted with frost in winter.

The route continues past open countryside as it enters Houghton-le-Spring, an old mining town nestled in a shallow valley. At Rainton Bridge, the scenery becomes more mixed: modern business parks and glass-fronted office buildings blend with older industrial units. As the bus winds through Gillas Lane, it passes well-kept bungalows and green verges before reaching East Rainton, a quiet village where the roadside is lined with stone cottages, grassy fields, and farm hedgerows.

Shortly after, West Rainton offers a charming snapshot of village life, neatly trimmed gardens, the spire of a local church, and a friendly mix of houses clustered around School Avenue. Beyond here, the bus crosses the countryside once again, heading into County Durham proper.

Approaching Carrville, the road becomes busier with modern housing estates, schools, and convenience stores. The scenery grows more suburban, with streetlamps dotting the horizon. At Gilesgate Moor, the bus passes the Hare and Hounds Veterinary Centre, a familiar local landmark near neat terraced streets and family homes.

Finally, the road dips toward Durham, with a sudden, spectacular view of the Cathedral cresting the skyline before descending into the central Durham Bus Station, nestled amid the historic heart of the city.

Begin your day in Sunderland, a city rich in maritime heritage and cultural attractions. Start with a visit to the National Glass Centre, where you can witness live glassblowing demonstrations and explore exhibitions celebrating the city's glassmaking legacy. Just a short walk away is the Sunderland Museum & Winter Gardens, home to diverse collections ranging from fine art to natural history, all set within a lush tropical garden. If the weather is pleasant, take a stroll along Roker and Seaburn beaches, enjoying the sea air and perhaps a coffee at a beachfront café.

Hop on the 20 bus and head to Houghton-le-Spring, a town steeped in history. Visit the Penshaw Monument, a striking 19th-century folly modelled after the Temple of Hephaestus in Athens, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Nearby, the Rainton Meadows Nature Reserve provides tranquil walking trails and opportunities for birdwatching amidst diverse habitats. For lunch, consider stopping at a local eatery in the town centre, where you can enjoy traditional fare in a cozy setting.

Continue your journey to Durham, a city renowned for its medieval architecture and vibrant university atmosphere. Explore the Durham Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site acclaimed for its Norman architecture and as a filming location for the Harry Potter series. Adjacent to the cathedral is Durham Castle, now part of the university, offering guided tours that delve into its rich history. Wander through the cobbled streets of the city centre, discovering independent shops, cafés, and the bustling Durham Market Hall. If time permits, enjoy a leisurely walk along the River Wear, taking in views of the city from the riverside paths.

Check out further down this page, some of the great attractions on this route and also be sure to go onto this link to find out more about fares and inspiration...

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