Life In Durham Issue 6 Sep/Oct 2021

ISSUE 6 SEPT | OCT 2021

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LIFE InDurham

Contents 4

Discussing Durham News and plans...

6

Shopping InDurham Where to shop this autumn...

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Deals InDurham

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8

Treat yourself with big savings...

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Do this InDurham Time to enjoy our city...

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Discovering Durham Exciting new ventures...

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Dine InDurham A foodie’s heaven...

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Welcome durhambid.co.uk

It’s widely known that autumn is the season of change and in this new edition of Life InDurham, we’re celebrating the fact that Durham is welcoming in a raft of new businesses to DH1 as our city showcases how uniquely brilliant life is in our little corner of the world.

/durhambusinessimprovementdistrict

Life InDurham is published by Allies Group Ltd All contents copyright ©2021 Allies Group Ltd. All rights reserved. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, no responsibility can be accepted for inaccuracies, howsoever caused.

No liability can be accepted for illustrations, photographs, artwork or advertising materials while in transmission or with the publisher or their agents. All content marked 'profile feature' is paid for advertising. All information is correct at time of going to print, September 2021.

ISSN 2635-277X

Allies Group Ltd, Enterprise House, Kingsway, Team Valley Trading Estate, Gateshead, NE11 0SR allies-group.com Publisher Christopher March chris@allies-group.com Editorial Matthew Thomas matthew@allies-group.com Advertising Rebecca Jackson rebecca@allies-group.com Design studio@allies-group.com

With the weather getting colder, you’ll want to fix yourself a hot drink and dive into 20 pages featuring the very best local businesses and inspiring individuals who shine bright in Durham.

Inside, you’ll find an exclusive interview with the team at WACELAND, we take a culinary trip to the Middle East to taste the incredible food from Turkish Kitchen Meze & Grill and we have an exclusive guide to Durham’s iconic Book Festival that makes a welcome return to our social diaries.

The leaves may be falling from the trees, but Durham is a city in full bloom with more reasons to visit than ever.

Time to fall in love with Durham this autumn…

Matthew Thomas - Life InDurham Editor

To advertise call 0191 500 7900 or email rebecca@allies-group.com

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LIFE InDurham

DISCUSSING

Durham

Your update on how city life is moving forward, the inspiring people that make our businesses tick and exciting developments coming to Durham in the near future...

Durham launch UK City of Culture 2025 bid County Durham has launched a sensational bid to be named UK City of Culture 2025 – with the hope the accolade will provide a major boost for the whole north east region.

The initial bid is being submitted by Durham County Council on behalf of Culture Durham, a partnership of organisations, including Beamish Museum, Durham Cathedral, Durham University and Locomotion. The partnership is also backed by numerous local businesses.

This bid to become UK City of Culture will be boosted over the coming years, with a wide range of additional events and activities set to take place between now and 2025 - here’s what’s planned:

Durham University students star at 2020 Tokyo Olympics Durham University continues its rich history of sporting success following news that seven students had jetted off to the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo. Current secondyear Sport and Exercise Sciences student Fiona Crackles was part of Team GB’s Women’s hockey squad.

Fiona was joined by History graduate Jack Waller 24, and Sport, Exercise and Physical Activity graduate Ollie Payne, 22, who are part of the Team GB Men’s hockey team. The trio have all been part of our Hockey

Club and were trained by Head Hockey Coach, Gareth Weaver-Tyler, based at Durham’s stunning £32m Sport and Wellbeing Park. Alumni Matt Rossiter, 31, and secondtime Olympian Angus Groom, 29, were selected to row for Team GB, while MSc Management graduate Eli Schenkel, 28, competed for Canada’s fencing team. Last but not least, both Dan Moore and James Harris were also selected as senior coaches for Team GB. Nice work all! durham.ac.uk

Durham University astronomers play pivotal role in new international telescope Durham University astronomers are taking to the skies as it’s just been revealed that they’re part of an international team building a new kind of 21st century space telescope. Weighing as much as a family car, the Superpressure balloon-Borne Imaging Telescope (SuperBIT) will take high resolution pictures of the universe and Durham University scientists will use it to measure the properties of dark matter. Circumnavigating the

Earth several times at an altitude of 40km, for up to 3 months, the SuperBIT will take images of the sky at night, then use solar panels to recharge its batteries during the day. It’ll be launched to the edge of space by a helium balloon the size of a football stadium and we can’t wait to see breathtaking images arrive back down to earth - all thanks to the work of some pretty special people from Durham University. durham.ac.uk

Launch of the 1950s town at Beamish Museum.

Programme of events around the display of the Lindisfarne Gospels.

Opening of a new dedicated history centre for County Durham in 2023.

Relaunch of Redhills, the Pitmens’ Parliament and home of the Durham Miners’ Association.

200th anniversary in 2025 of the first passenger railway from George Stephenson.

International artistic collaborations with new and contemporary artists working across genres.

Cultural events that explore economics, science and the North East environment.

Community-based events, activities and initiatives.

For more information on this transformational development, check out durham.gov.uk.

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Jenny Wren Paintings adds a dash of colour at Prince Bishops Place Another inspiring independent has nestled down in Durham city centre lately, and if you’re into contemporary art that’s littered with an array of incredible colours, then a trip to Jenny Wren Paintings at Prince Bishops Place is an absolute must for all those who love pretty things. A masterstroke from local artist Jenny Rogers, this beautiful new art emporium is home to unique pieces of art that are all handpainted and painstakingly produced at her home-based studio, right here, in Durham! Whether you’re after a new centrepiece for the living room or a splash of colour in the hallway, you’re bound to find something special at Jenny Wren Paintings! facebook.com/jennywrenpaintings

SEPT | OCT 2021 ISSUE 6

LIFE InDurham Backing Durham Business: Elvet Recruitment receive North East investment

Turtle Bay to open stunning restaurant on durham riverwalk Hot off the press! Turtle Bay has just announced that they will be opening a stunning new restaurant on Durham Riverwalk that will overlook the River Wear in a scintillating project. One of the UK’s leading names when it comes to delicious Caribbean cuisine, Turtle Bay have already started work on the new 4850 sq ft, two-storey venue in the city centre, scheduled to open later in October!

Durham’s hospitality scene is about to step-up a notch, as DH1 prepares to welcome the spirit of Caribbean islands to the city streets; from rum and reggae, to sizzling jerk chicken and beach shack liming. Turtle Bay is shaping up to be an exciting addition to an already glistening hospitality scene. What will the menu consist of, we hear you ask? Well, you can look forward to signature cocktails, bottomless brunches, island-inspired dishes like jerk chicken and fiery goat curry topped off with great service from passionate, friendly staff - sounds right up our street! turtlebay.co.uk

Durham Professors win prestigious Royal Society of Chemistry awards!

As if Durham University couldn’t impress us anymore! We’ve recently learned that Professor Jan Verlet and Professor Jonathan Steed from our Department of Chemistry have been named the winners of the Royal Society of Chemistry’s highly-admired Corday-Morgan Prize and Tilden Prize, respectively. Created to recognise outstanding achievements by individuals, teams and organisations in advancing the chemical sciences, The Royal Society of Chemistry awards symbolise the ground-breaking impact Durham University has on the scientific community.

Having first begun trading back on January 4th, during lockdown, a local agency has gone on to soar in recent months. Elvet Recruitment have recently secured a fivefigure investment from the North East Small Loan Fund following a meteoric rise.

Focussing upon the environmental and construction sectors, Elvet Recruitment has bagged £30,000 funding that has now enabled the local firm to double the size of their Durham city offices. With revenue targets smashed within the first six months of trading, we’re keeping a watchful eye to see what these trailblazers next have up their sleeve... elvetrecruitment.com

MY

Durham

Stephen Hall, Office Senior Partner, Deloitte I AM...

Stephen Hall, the office senior partner of Deloitte the professional services firm - in the North East.

Durham blossoms as city retailers claim gold at In Bloom awards The streets of our beautiful city centre have been looking splendid in recent weeks and that’s no coincidence, as Durham was kitted out by Durham County Council’s Civic Pride and Clean and Green teams to welcome judges from the Royal Horticultural Society’s (RHS) In Bloom competition. Although results for the overall competition are expected in late September, we’re buzzing to announce that tons of our local businesses won the ‘Best Dressed’ Competition!

Indie favourites and local retailers spruced up their window displays with a floral theme, as the Civic Pride Team awarded Circle Vintage, Woven, Elvet & Bailey, Bear Bottoms and Turkish Kitchen Meze & Grill gold for their brilliant blooms and dazzling displays.

Drilling deep beneath Durham Miners Hall to unlock an eco-friendly future Our friends at Durham Miners Hall have recently begun work to explore the possibility of using the Earth’s heat to power the newly renovated building on Flass Street! Working with TGA Consulting Engineers and Renewable Energy Alliance, drilling tests powered through the ground as the team searched for possibilities to install ground source heat pumps that would provide the Miners Hall with an efficient and environmentally friendly source of thermal energy. We can’t wait to see this collaborative project, overseen by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, come to fruition! redhillsdurham.org

MY CONNECTION WITH DURHAM IS… I was born in Dryburn Hospital and grew up in Belmont. I attended Belmont Comprehensive School and then did my A-Levels at Fram. After time away for university and a short spell in Jesmond I have lived in the centre of Durham ever since. I am a trustee of the County Durham Community Foundation and also Chair of 11 Arches, the local charity responsible for the Kynren performances at Bishop Auckland. I’ve enjoyed working from home during lockdown and spending more time in the city.

MY FAVOURITE PLACE FOR CULTURE IN THE CITY IS… I’d have to say the Gala Theatre. I have always been interested in the performing arts and was thrilled when Durham got its own professional theatre.

I enjoy the range of comedy, music and drama on offer. My niece goes to the Stage School too!

I GET MY COFFEE FIX FROM… I’ve spent much more time in Durham recently and enjoy meeting friends, family and colleagues for a coffee. I’ve been to most of the local cafes but Biz-R is somewhere I always return to.

MY GO-TO FOODIE SPOT IS… I enjoy a trip to Finbarrs to celebrate a family occasion.

THE THREE PLACES I TAKE VISITORS ARE… The Cathedral as it’s what makes Durham, Durham. I never tire of the atmosphere there.

The views from the tower are amazing.

The riverbanks are somewhere to savour - I like to take visitors for a stroll to Shincliffe for lunch.

You might even be lucky and see an otter!

Kynren - I’m interested in history and theatre so this spectacular show in Bishop Auckland is special to me. Amazing work from the 800+ volunteers and the scale of it all never fails to impress.

MY IN-THE-KNOW SECRET IS...

I have enjoyed my lockdown walks especially the peace and tranquillity of Flass Vale, which many people seem not to know about.

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LIFE InDurham

SHOPPING InDurham

A wondrous Waceland...

A leading light in forwardthinking, sustainable fashion from across the globe, Waceland has quickly become one of the North East’s most-loved independent clothing brands.

Matthew Thomas checks in with Georgia Stanley, owner and founder of Waceland as she prepares to open a second store in Durham city centre this autumn…

Tell us a little about yourself? When did the enthusiasm for fashion begin?

“I’m Georgia Stanley, 26-years-old and from Newcastle upon Tyne. I have always had a strong desire to become a part of the fashion industry.

From A-Level to undertaking a Diploma Degree at Newcastle College and finally studying Fashion Design and Marketing at Northumbria University.

The knowledge gained through my degree only

greatened my desire to thrive within the industry and building my own business has always been the dream.”

How did the inspiration for Waceland come about?

one-of-a-kind so you won’t be able to find them elsewhere and when it’s gone, it’s gone!”

How do you source styles and ranges for Waceland?

“Throughout my education I always had the desire to open my own business in the field of fashion. Within the summer break of my third year at University my brother Jordan and I decided to open our first Waceland pop-up store in Newcastle. We both have always had such a desire for fashion and particularly for streetwear and vintage. I was fortunate enough to welcome back Jordan to the Waceland team, which has enabled us to grow to our latest store of 34 Saddler Street, Durham.”

“All our products are individually handpicked to ensure only the best items are available for our customers. We select items from across the globe and regularly embark on buying trips across America and Europe to make sure we are offering the very best for our customers.”

How is Waceland different from other menswear brands? What type of clientele do you welcome through your doors?

“Sustainability is at the core of Waceland and will continue to be. It’s so important in this day and age for companies to be sustainable and possess knowledge on what impact their business is having on the planet. Our best quote to go by is ‘treat this planet well. It was not given to you by your parents but lent to you by your children’. I think fashion has changed over the years towards becoming more environmentally friendly and I do think it will continue to do so.”

“Waceland offers a vast range of unisex streetwear and vintage clothing. All items are individually handpicked, washed and cared for before being placed in-store. Therefore this makes every item

More and more people are becoming increasingly conscious of where their clothing comes from, how it’s made and its impact on the environment.

Do you feel that the perception of sustainable fashion has changed over the years?

The brand is founded on a concept of ‘effortlessly stylish’ clothing – talk a bit about what that means to you?

“We want our customers to feel confident and comfortable with what we are providing and to enjoy the shopping experiences in-store! So from having effortlessly stylish clothing, you can pull interchangeable outfits together easily and most importantly, feel ace in them!”

Let’s talk about your new store in Durham. What was it that made Saddler Street such an attractive location to open a new store?

“We have been looking to expand for a little while now, looking at different locations and different areas but Durham really stood out for us. It has a similar feel to our Newcastle store with it being in a historical area and we love being a part of such a bustling community! We pride ourselves on having a family feel and Durham is one of the few places

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SEPT | OCT 2021 ISSUE 6

LIFE InDurham

DEALS

inDurham Life InDurham’s popular Loyalty Card scheme just gets better and better. There are plenty of exclusive deals to make your visit extra special and to help your money go that little bit further! Here’s our pick of the bunch…

20% OFF AT TIA’S MEXICAN that offers this priceless atmosphere. Even when we first moved in, everyone was coming over and it just made us feel so welcome.”

What can people expect when walking through the doors at Waceland?

“We always go the extra mile for our customers, as being a family business we believe that customers should be treated the same way you would treat friends and loved ones. Waceland wouldn’t be the same without our amazing loyal customers so that’s why every customer online or in-store is treated with the same warmth and respect as the next. If we get a message from a customer searching for a particular item, we will go the extra mile to try and source it for them, as you would do for a friend.”

It seems as though the pandemic has caused a greater amount of people to ‘switch on’ to what is going on in their community. Do you think that people now have a greater interest in local business and if so, do you see this lasting?

“I feel like the pandemic has made people appreciate what is available within their communities that they maybe didn’t even know was there originally. Given the travel restrictions imposed earlier in the pandemic, I believe it has enabled everyone to see clearly what is actually going on in their area. There are so many amazing independent stores and markets out there that are finally seeing an increase in popularity which is amazing to see. I do think people will continue to use independent and local businesses because it gives the customer a different experience than going to a superstore. Independent stores are usually run by the owners themselves or people that are close to the business, so will do everything to make the customer happy and will go the extra mile. It’s more of a personal touch and makes you feel a part of the local community, which is priceless.”

As we head into the autumn period, what does the rest of 2021 hold for Waceland?

“Everyday we push ourselves to become bigger and better, so keep an eye out; we always have something exciting up our sleeve.”

This family-run mexican and mediterranean restaurant offers plenty of choice including enchiladas, pizzas, slow cooked ribs and more.

And with 20% off, what’s not to love?

25% OFF FOOD AT ASK ITALIAN

Tuck in to antipasto boards, stone baked pizzas, fresh pasta and delightful desserts and enjoy a generous 25% off!

15% OFF AT WOVEN

You’ll be hard-pressed to find a better deal than this one. Our Loyalty Card is giving you 15% off luxurious men's designer clothing from our friends at Woven. You’re bound to find something special.

10% OFF AT WHITTARD OF CHELSEA

As we head toward the colder months there’s no better time to sample new hot drink flavours from Whittard of Chelsea. Head here, show your Life InDurham Loyalty Card, and enjoy 10% off. You’ll come away with all the coffee paraphernalia you’ll ever need.

20% OFF MORE MILE AT START FITNESS

If you’re looking for new fitness gear to help put a spring in your step, head to Start Fitness to enjoy 20% off More Mile products. Renowned for offering the very best kit when it comes to running, football and cycling, Start Fitness on Market Place is a must-visit.

Did you know you can save while you spend with an InDurham Loyalty Card? For an annual subscription fee of just £5, you can get access to a whole host of exclusive deals, discounts and other special offers, at participating businesses across the city. From food and drink, to fashion, hair and beauty - plus sports kit and interior products - there’s something for everyone to enjoy for less with an InDurham Loyalty Card! lifeindurham.co.uk

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LIFE InDurham

DO THIS

inDurham Richard Osman Photo: Penguin Books

Durham’s venues are alive again with the sound of world-class music, aweinspring installations and visceral exhibitions.

Here’s what’s lighting up our social diaries...

Durham Book Festival 9 - 17 October A beloved celebration that welcomes countless faces to the city centre, Durham Book Festival returns for 2021 with an action-packed programme bursting with world-renowned authors…

Leila Slimane Photo: Catherine Hélie ©Editions Gallimard

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Denise Mina

The city’s iconic annual literary festival returns this October with an exciting blend of live and digital events that see special guests Lemn Sissay, Richard Osman, Pat Barker, Val McDermid, Leïla Slimani, Fiona Hill and Ed Balls all join the line-up.

Taking place between 9 and 17 October 2021, writers, artists and thinkers from across the world will take part in more than 60 events, either in person at Durham’s Gala Theatre or online.

Commissioned by Durham County Council and produced by New Writing North, with funding from major partner Durham University and Arts Council England and support from BBC Radio Newcastle, Durham Book Festival is one of the UK’s oldest literary festivals and welcomes a diverse audience to the streets of DH1.

Musa Okwonga Photo: Robert Rieger

What’s planned for this year then? Richard Osman returns to Durham Book Festival following his 2020 appearance to talk about the sequel to his recordbreaking debut The Thursday Murder Club. In this special event, Richard will introduce us to his new book The Man Who Died Twice as well as reflecting on some of the books that have meant the most to him throughout his life.

Durham’s own Booker Prizewinning author Pat Barker joins the festival to talk about her new novel The Women of Troy.

Recorded in the historic Bishop Cosin’s Library in Durham, Pat will be talking about her acclaimed career and her latest take on classical history. Other stand-out names include Anita Sethi and Musa Okwonga who will discuss their memoirs, both of whom depict powerful

Amika George

reflections on identity, society and an exploration of race and class in modern Britain.

The festival returns to its home at Durham’s Gala Theatre from Thursday 14 – Sunday 17 October. A packed programme begins with The Announcement of the Gordon Burn Prize 2021 which celebrates the year’s boldest works of fiction and non-fiction. Over the evening, each author will introduce and read from their shortlisted book, before the winner is awarded £5000.

There’s also a digital weekend on 9-10 October.

Access to individual events costs just £5 per household, while a festival pass to access more then 20 events are only £20.

For more information on the festival, visit durhambookfestival.com

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LIFE InDurham The Suicide Squad 7 September

Magical cinema moments have finally returned and our friends at Odeon Durham are back with a vengeance! Having unveiled a jampacked schedule featuring Hollywood blockbusters and Disney epics, the team have recently announced that they’ll be showcasing an enthralling screening of The Suicide Squad on 7th September! A 2021 American superhero flick based on your favourite DC Comics, join Margot Robbie, John Cena and Slyvester Stallone in this irreverent and stylishly-fun movie from Warner Bros. odeon.co.uk

The Primitives 7 & 8 September

The Primitives are rolling into Durham this autumn and they’ve announced a special date at Old Cinema Launderette. One the UK’s most iconic punk rock ‘n’ rollers best known for their beloved single ‘Crash’ are heading to Old Cinema Launderette to strut their stuff in front of an intimate audience as they rattle through a repertoire of jangly pop hits - acoustic style. Another huge name coming to the city and one that promises to be an unforgettable evening for music-lovers. One for your autumn calendars - don’t miss it! oldcinemalaunderette.uk

Durham Food Producers’ and Crafters’ Markets 16 September & 21 October Round-up your clan and head into the city to experience one of the UK’s most-loved open-air markets as a raft of independent traders transform the Market Square into a carnival of all things indie and hand-made.

Taking place all day on the third Thursday of September and October, Durham Food Producers’ and Crafters’ Markets feature a plethora of local independent businesses who showcase the very best when it comes to locally sourced and made-from-the-heart products. Fresh veg, cool crafts, hand-crafted homewares and striking photography are just some of the delights on offer here in Durham, so be sure to check it out, give them some support and immerse yourself in Durham’s vibrant indie scene. facebook.com/durhammarkets

Museum of the Moon From 13 September

There’s an awe-inspiring art display shining bright at Durham Cathedral this autumn. Measuring in at seven metres in diameter, Luke Jerram’s visceral Museum of the Moon features 120dpi detailed NASA imagery of the lunar surface. A world-famous exhibition, Museum of the Moon has travelled the globe, gathering new musical compositions and ongoing collections of personal responses, stories and mythologies from different cultures. Featuring a lunar-themed programme of events, you and your loved ones can head into orbit and enjoy a raft of late night openings, cathedral tours with a twist, star gazing, half term activities and much more. durhamcathedral.co.uk

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LIFE InDurham Behind The Face of a Rock, Throwing Stones 24 September

Take time to check out a brand new theatre peformance taking to the stage from Surface Area Dance Theatre this September. Behind the Face of a Rock, Throwing Stones, has developed through a process of choreographic research centred upon an experiential understanding and knowledge of British Sign Language, D/deaf culture, Japanese culture and Butoh. The resulting piece brings together an aweinspiring production that explores themes of language, sensation, contemplation and physical expression through movement and wearable technology. Tickets start from £11, check it out this autumn... durhamcathedral.co.uk

John Lydon 17 October

Chloe Foy 7 October Arriving into DH1 with a tranquil blend of melodic music bursting with colourful lyrical and textural inflections, take a trip to Old Cinema Launderette to enjoy the serene sounds of Chloe Foy. Taking inspiration from classical music as much as wider transatlantic trends in folk and indie, Chloe’s songs consist of carefully constructed arrangements that delicately complement her cryptic lyrics. Her sound marries together elements of Laura Marling, Fleet Foxes, Sharon Van Etten and Angel Olsen to create a stop-in-your-track sound. Be sure to catch this sensational soulstress live in Durham.

He’s a legend and an icon, a revolutionary and an immortal.

John Lydon – aka Johnny Rotten – changed the face of music and sparked a cultural revolution during the 70s and 80s as the frontman and lyricist of the Sex Pistols and Public Image Ltd (PiL) caused a political earthquake. To coincide with the publication of his new book, the brilliant, funny and insightful I Could Be Wrong, I Could Be Right, John is hitting the road to discuss life, along with his extraordinary career.

He’s also answer all your burning questions during an inflammatory evening at Gala Theatre. galadurham.co.uk

oldcinemalaunderette.uk How excited are you to finally perform live in front of fans again this October?

Very excited! Live music is what it’s all about for me so I can’t wait to share music with fans again!

What have you missed most about live performances?

The instant reaction you get from a crowd of real people - it’s not the same when you’re live streaming and you can’t see real people and have real eyes on you. Also I enjoy the spontaneity that comes with exchanging stories with different audiences. You can never recreate the same night twice.

Congratulations on recently releasing your debut album!

Are there any tracks you’re most looking forward to giving their live debut?

Thank you. I’m looking forward to playing all of them live - some of them will be re-imagined for a

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smaller set-up so that’ll be fun to experiment with. Songs like Work of Art and Deserve will be good to play live.

We can’t wait to see you at the Old Cinema Laundrette here in Durham - have you ever performed anywhere as quirky as a 1920s cinema come laundrette before?

I have actually performed at the Laundrette before - it was one of my last shows before the pandemic.

So I’m looking forward to returning!

Durham’s your only North East stop on the tour - why Durham and have you spent much time in the city before?

I’m a big fan of the venue and think it’s amazing the amount of incredible musicians who pass through to play the Laundrette, and Durham is also a beautiful place. I’ve not had much of a chance to spend time there before but maybe I will this time!

Milton Jones 21 October

One of the UK’s biggest comedians returns with Milton: Impossible this autumn and he’s taking to the Gala Theatre stage for an exclusive city centre show. Most people know Milton Jones as the comedian with the loud shirts and messed up hair, however, his stand-up is built on much more than a funny appearance; his style is characterised by twists of surreal logic, clever one-liners and bizarre monologues. Expect an evening of gloriously daft nonsense and quick wit - tickets on sale now. galadurham.co.uk

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ce an ble n i F aila av

The Lake Poets 22 October A sensational multi-instrumentalist and songwriter is heading to DH1 and if a tranquil voice and beautifully intricate guitar riffs sounds like your kinda’ thing, then you need to take a trip to Old Cinema Launderette to catch The Lake Poets. Hailing from Sunderland, The Lake Poets (Marty Longstaff) are renowned for their breathtaking music that soothes, despite lyrics that depict scenes of heartbreak, loss and despair.

One of the shining lights in Northern music, a trip to see one of the UK’s brightest talents is an absolute must this autumn. oldcinemalaunderette.uk

I Saw Nick Drake 16 October

Prepare yourself for an unmissable evening of music that welcomes some of the UK’s foremost emerging artists to the city centre as they perform reimagined tracks from iconic singer-songwriter, Nick Drake.

Featuring Katherine Priddy, George Boomsma, Ceitidh Mac and Luke James Williams, I Saw Nick Drake live at Claypath Delicatessen promises to be an awe-inspiring night as Nick Drake’s hauntingly beautiful tracks come to life under the guise of current-day artists. A rare opportunity for North East music lovers to enjoy the songs of one of the most influential musicians of modern times, follow the link below to bag your tickets for this special night of music...

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Uterine Dreams: Sculptor, Heal Thyself Throughout September

Internationally renowned artist, Sarah Danays is exhibiting a stunning and thought-provoking new display at Durham University’s Oriental Museum. Tackling the difficult subject of miscarriage in Uterine Dreams, Danays’ work focusses on the uterus, and the distress caused by the loss of a child. Drawing inspiration from ancient Egyptian collections at the Oriental Museum and the collections of the Hunterian Museum in Glasgow, the new artworks are displayed alongside ancient pieces. The entire collection has been inspired by two small objects from the Oriental Museum’s collections; an Egyptian New Kingdom pottery piece showing a postpartum mother and her child, and a Greco-Roman travertine fragment of a female torso. It’s thought-provoking, stimulating and visually incredible - absolutely one to check out.

Start your adoption story with us Adoption gives children the chance to be in a permanent stable family, filled with the trust, love and care that they need.

We are looking for people who can offer a child a loving home for life and provide them with the care and support they need to grow and flourish.

www.adoptcoasttocoast.org.uk - 03000 268 268

dur.ac.uk/oriental.museum

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LIFE InDurham

DURHAM

A warm welcome to the Durham Depository!

This page is dedicated to shining a light on Durham’s illustrious history, piecing together the people, places and businesses that have had a lasting impact on our city...

depository

Photo: Ross Hastie

Prince Bishops place rises from the ground

Photo: Ross Hastie

Photo: Ross Hastie

Photo: Andrew Jackson

As Prince Bishops Place embarks on a new future as Durham’s retail sector continues to bounce back, join us as we take a look at these extraordinary images as we bring you stunning images from the early days of one of the region’s biggest shopping destinations…

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DH1’s bank of iconic imagery

We’d love to hear your tales, see your photographs and share your memories of life in Durham. Drop us a line, tag us in your posts and use the #LifeInDurham hashtag on social media!

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LIFE InDurham

DISCOVERING

Durham

The new faces of DH1 There’s been a raft of sensational new independents arriving in the city centre over the past 15 months.

From opulent Ottoman cuisine and brilliant butchers, to an award-winning gin distillery and sun-soaked venues, we’ve rounded up the new faces of DH1 as these seriously inspiring businesses make their mark on our city.

Durham Distillery

Wild spirits run free over at Durham Distillery. A fabulous independent now standing tall at Prince Bishops Place, Durham Distillery recently moved into a 6,000 sq ft home in the city centre that features their own store, brewery tours and a lovely bar and visitor space that’s perfect for sampling their gorgeous creations. The team has managed to create a place that isn’t just about promoting

their brand, but one where you can visit, converse with the brewers, learn more about their spirits and develop your sense of gin connoisseurship with other like-minded folk. Durham Distillery are proud of their DH1 roots, and their love for the city is reflected in everything that leaves the premises. It’s a lovely place created by brilliant people - check it out next time you’re in the city. durhamdistillery.co.uk

Cafe Ravika

Be sure to visit this new independent business on Silver Street that’s serving up quality British and European classics with an Asian twist! We’re giving a warm, Northern welcome to the team at Cafe Ravika - the new tenants taking over the old Esquires unit in the city centre. Following a lengthy refurb, the team flung open their doors to unveil a bold new frontage, lush contemporary decor and an exclusive dinner menu that has gone down like a treat. facebook.com/caferavika

Meeple World

Opulent fine dining, boutique interior decor and a chilled ambiance are just some of the standout features you can expect to find at Rib N Reef. Another excellent eatery joining Durham’s standout hospitality ranks, this Silver Street restaurant is the place to visit if you’re looking for sumptuous melt-in-your-mouth steak moments. Cooked exactly how you like it, this family-run restaurant prides itself on producing show-stopping culinary treats. With locally-sourced produce arriving straight from local fisherman and regional farmers, it’s no surprise that people are queuing up to sample their delights.

Durham has added another ace to the pack with the opening gaming store, Meeple World on Saddler Street. A lovely independent business run by some seriously friendly folk, Meeple World arrived in the city in December 2020 and hasn’t looked back since.

The store is home to a great selection of tabletop games, Super Mario commodities and Marvel merchandise that’s ideal for treating both yourself and others!

ribnreefdurham.co.uk

meeplegames.uk

Rib N Reef

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Turkish Kitchen Meze & Grill

There’s been a whole lot of hustle and bustle at 66 Saddler Street in the past 12 months as Durham continues to welcome inspiring independents to the city.

Turkish Kitchen Meze & Grill is a stunning place offering some incredibly delicious Turkish cuisine. Serving up a touch of opulent Ottoman soul food to the city, it’s the place to be for all things fire and spice. They’ve just opened, their food is glorious and they’re open for takeaway as well as click & collect the rest we’ll leave to you. facebook.com/ turkishkitchendurham

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LIFE InDurham

The Curious Mr Fox

Those who love authentic, British food with a gastro twist are in for a treat with The Curious Mr Fox. Having opened their doors in June 2021, this restaurant on Riverview Walk arrives into the city with a stand-out food offering that provides diners with some of the best local dishes made from the freshest seasonal ingredients from across the North East. They’re bold, their food is brilliant and it’s an absolute must visit this autumn.

The Pawsome Cat Cafe

facebook.com/thecuriousmrfox

thepawsomecatcafe.com

Calling all animal-lovers. There’s a brand new cat cafe on North Road and this bold new business has been purring since it opened. A haven for feline fanatics and a great spot to devour delicious cakes, coffees and teas all in the company of some seriously sweet felines, they’re a small business offering cute things to the people of Durham and beyond - be sure to support them this autumn.

The Butcher’s Deli

The ‘steaks‘ certainly have been raised with a new hybrid butcher on Saddler Street. The Butchers Deli, a new hybrid cross between a conventional butchers and contemporary delicatessen, has recently opened on Saddler Street and they’ve arrived into DH1 with a bang.

Featuring a sleek interior adorned with vibrant neon accents, beautifully finished white tiling throughout and mosaic flooring synonymous with the streets of Porto, The Butchers Deli have pulled out all the stops when it came to kitting out 77 Saddler Street. Head here to see why foodies are flocking from far and wide to sample their produce! facebook.com/thebutchersdelidurham

Open Event Thursday 21st October 2021

durhamsixthformcentre.org.uk Finalists

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With plenty of new eateries recently added to an already extensive range of fabulous restaurants, Durham really is the ultimate place for food-lovers...

rustic bare-brick walls, beautiful botanical arrangements and an abundance of low-level ambient lighting that subtly illuminates all the rather lovely features of this ravishing restaurant. It’s modern, graceful, stylish and it’s an enticing place to sample some sensational dishes while being attended to by some of the friendliest faces anywhere in Durham.

Let’s talk about food. Three starters swiftly arrive at the table following a long debate on which of the 22 hot and cold starters would be sampled this evening.

Opulent Ottoman fare Life InDurham magazine takes a culinary trip to Turkish Kitchen Meze & Grill to sample the stunning opulent Ottoman fare being served at this outstanding DH1 restaurant…

Standing tall on one of Durham’s principal streets, Turkish Kitchen Meze & Grill is one of the city’s new independent restaurants to open in 2021 and is already proving it’s a force to be reckoned with.

be had outside of Istanbul, Turkish Kitchen Meze & Grill has arrived in the city centre with aplomb and a forward-thinking menu to rival the very best establishments in the North.

Boasting a boutique interior, firstclass service and some of the finest, most-authentic Turkish delicacies to

The restaurant subtly juxtaposes the historic, cobblestone ambiance of Saddler Street. Inside, there’s

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Obviously, it would be foolish not to give the homemade hummus (£5.50) a run out; finely-blended chickpeas have had crushed garlic, aromatic olive oil, grounded white pepper, cumin and tahini added to create a delightful plate bursting with flavour.

Oven-baked garlic mushroom (£6.50) garnished with herbs, spice and mozzarella cheese arrive at the table before one of the standout dishes of the night is placed in plain view. The ‘Ezme’ (£5.50) is the stuff of dreams; it’s a cold plate that features freshlychopped tomato, fragrant parsley, cucumber, onion and mint before being topped with Kirmizi Biber - a secret blend of hot red chilli, sweet red peppers and a special mix of other spices from Turkey. Simply put, it’s a sensational assault on the taste buds!

that features aubergine stuffed with sauteed onions, garlic and fresh tomato sauce, the team here at Turkish Kitchen have created an offering that will both delight and excite.

After an extended period of deliberation, our hearts become set on the chicken iskender (£12.95); fresh from the grill. This delectable dish arrives in a sizzling pan and features butterflied chicken, served with garlic yogurt that’s been topped with fried butter, sprinkled with herbs and seasoning before being laid to rest on hand-made, traditional Turkish bread that does a stellar job of soaking up the amalgamated jus from above.

The evening is rounded off with cubes of traditional Turkish delight and a quick bite of their beautiful baklava that sends us on our merry way back to enjoy the bright lights of our lovely city.

So, if you’re keen on lip-smackingly good food and attentive service in a relaxing setting with your nearest and dearest, you could do a lot worse than looking past Turkish Kitchen Meze & Grill. turkishkitchendurham.co.uk

Regardless of whether you’re a meat-lover or an eager vegan, Halil and his team have created a beautiful menu that caters to all palettes, all diets and everyone’s fancy. From the huge lamb kofte that’s mixed with onion and topped with Turkish cheese, to the Imam Bayildi - an authentic Ottoman dish SEPT | OCT 2021 ISSUE 6

LIFE InDurham

SPOTLIGHT ON:

Brooklyn Pizza Slice The North East is currently in the midst of a pizza craze with new pizza parlours popping up across the region. Now the slice revolution has touched down in Durham and this fabulous shop has already sent tastebuds tingling…

Brooklyn Pizza Slice first opened its doors back in June and soon became talk of the city and the lunchtime hangout for hungry city workers flocking to get hold of hand-stretched, oven-baked New York style pizza slices.

Next door to Sainsbury’s on North Road, visitors will be able to find a plethora of special slices on offer.

From salami and honey crusts, prosciutto ham topped with fresh ricotta flowers or the delightful BBQ pulled pork, each slice is light, packed

with flavour and has an addictive power that means a second slice is a requirement, not an option.

Even BPS’ original margarita slice is a taste sensation that’s made with aged mozzarella, fresh tomato sauce, extra virgin olive oil, parmigiano reggiano and freshly-torn basil - evidence of the expertise and attention to detail on offer here.

Brooklyn Pizza Slice has given North Road’s hospitality scene a jolt.

Featuring a panoramic counter that

BUSINESS

bites

Durham riverwalk rake in new global restaurants

There’s a raft of first class restaurants rolling into the Riverwalk, so if tender South American steaks, lip-smackingly good chicken and juicy burger stacks are your kinda’ thing then you’re in luck. Here are the new global restaurants moving into the Riverwalk… meat that have been slowly cooked over open flames, Estábulo have signed a 15-year lease and will soon be unveiling a beautiful new restaurant to curious onlookers.

A taste of Brazil will soon be arriving at the Riverwalk this winter, as it’s just been announced that esteemed South American brand, Estábulo, will be opening a new store in the city centre.

A restaurant renowned across the globe for delicious and flavoursome cuts of skewered

Wild spices are set to run free in Durham, given that award-winning Masterchef Bobby Geetha will be bringing his brilliant Casa Peri Peri empire to our city. A renowned culinary figure, Bobby and his team will be opening up another brand new store as they prepare to treat us to the likes of perfectly grilled English peri peri chicken or beef short rib in a stylish, modern restaurant environment without breaking the bank. It’ll be a haven of colour, spice and everything nice - we can’t wait to see it open!

does a brilliant job showcasing the 12” beauties on offer for the day, white-tiled walls to contrast the black storefront, as well as cool mosaic flooring, it’s bold, brilliant and something not seen in Durham before.

Like a true, traditional New York pizza shop, the best way to enjoy these delicious crusts is straight away, wide-stanced al fresco style.

There’s arguably no better place to

spend a post-shopping excursion than inhaling one of these saucy slices overlooking the river as city life ambles by.

A small, inspiring independent in Durham offering up mighty slices on a daily basis, you don’t need to travel to New York for a perfect Brooklyn pizza slice. You can find them right here, on your doorstep in Durham. facebook.com/brooklynpizzaslice

WINE, BEERS AND SPIRITS IN THE HEART OF DURHAM We offer FREE local delivery on orders over £30 or in store collection is available!

Visit our website to order today www.mhwines.co.uk

MARKET HALL WINES Units 4/5, Durham Indoor Market, Durham DH1 3NJ

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LIFE InDurham

YOUR

Durham Durham City through your lens…

Pastel pinks and deep purples circle above as dusk encapsulates Durham Cathedral...

Credit: Brian Eyler Website: brianeylerphotography.co.uk

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JAN UTILITA ARENA NEWCASTLE

Museum of the Moon 13 September to 11 November 2021 See Durham Cathedral in a whole new light as Luke Jerram’s Museum of the Moon illuminates the nave. Explore the installation and moon-themed events at www.durhamcathedral.co.uk

Image © James Billings