Old enough to remember paying a 1d each way in 'old money' to cross the footbridge over the River Wear at Finchale Priory.
As a youngster, cycling from Sunderland, on a summer's evening after school, it was worth the expense to save the time it would have taken for the much longer route via Newton Hall.
The ruins of the priory, once used as a retreat for the monks at Durham Cathedral, are cared for by English Heritage.
The location is well worth a visit with the Grade I listed ruins incorporating the hermitage of St Godric and some lovely riverside walks.
The good news is that the bridge is toll free and as is entrance to the grounds of the priory.

#england #durham #englishheritage #historic #countryside #landscape #photography

Taking time to have a chat, a flask of tea and enjoy the East Durham countryside in the early spring sunshine.
It always feels great when the weather finally picks up after the often dreary season of winter.

#england #durham #countryside #spring #march2026 #landscape #photography