NE Recognised in railway journeys

Date: 2005-05-26, Publication: The Journal

From Durham Cathedral's gothic architecture to the Tyne's iconic bridges - North-East scenery is among the UK's finest.

Now this has been recognised in a poll which names part of the North-East's main rail route as Britain's most beautiful train journey.

The Durham-to-Berwick route was voted Britain's finest in Country Life magazine.

The accolade followed a survey which included musician Jools Holland and travel writer Bill Bryson. Author James Knox [correct] was one of a number of famous faces who championed the case for the North-East.

He said: "The arrival into Newcastle from Berwick is majestic, with the bridges across the Tyne, including the new Millennium Bridge, views of Georgian Newcastle and across to Gateshead and the new concert hall, not to mention the Angel of the North."

Historian Sir Roy Strong said: "It is a lost and romantic part of Britain, especially the country, with its mixture of tamed and wild and all the ruins that were once fought over.

"The emptiness of it all fills me with wonder so much I want to pull the cord and step off."

Country Life editor Clive Aslet [correct] said: "Durham's ecclesiastical monument to Gothic architecture is the perfect starting point for a journey. It perches majestically on its rocky platform, embraced round the hem by the solid fortifications of the castle.

"The rest of the university town is scattered in the foothills and looks reverentially upwards."

GNER spokesman John Gelson [correct] said: "We're not at all surprised.

"The route through County Durham and Northumberland is indeed a treat for all who travel with GNER."

One NorthEast director of regeneration and tourism John Holmes said: "The North-East is blessed with an enviable mix of beautiful rolling countryside, world-famous historic buildings and monuments and vibrant city centres. The East Coast Mainline showcases all three."

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