17 clear reasons why Durham proves it really is grim up North

We've all heard the saying: "it's grim up North".

Here at ChronicleLive, as we launch our new County Durham Live and Sunderland Live sites, we've been having a think about how much truth there is in it.

So we had a long, hard look at Durham to see if we could find any proof - and it turns out there's lots.

From its drab city centre to its bleak surrounding areas, there's really not much to like about the place.

Here are 17 reasons why Durham proves our region is naff:

1. First of all, there's this eyesore

2. No matter the time of day...

The sun sets behind Durham Cathedral (PA)

3. ...it looks dreadful

Durham Cathedral at night (Newcastle Chronicle)

4. And then there's the small matter of its neighbour

Durham Castle and grounds (Newcastle Journal)

5. Shabby

Durham Castle (Newcastle Journal)

6. There's nothing to see in the city centre...

Elvet Bridge in Durham and rower (Unknown)

7. ...and no where to eat or drink

Durham at night (Newcastle Chronicle)

8. Then there's that awful coast

9. It photographs terribly

Waves crashing in Seaham, County Durham (PA WIRE)

10. The countryside isn't worth the drive either

Moorland in Weardale (Visit County Durham)

11. Average

Killhope, Weardale (Evening Gazette)

 

 

12. It's soooooooo quiet

Thousands march at the Durham Miners' Gala (NEWCASTLE CHRONICLE)

13. Nothing at all happens

Lumiere Durham light festival (PA)

14. Ever

Durham Pride Parade (Newcastle Chronicle)

15. So, aye, it's grim

Durham picture by Tony Winward (Evening Gazette)

 

16. Really, really grim

Durham Cathedral (Newcastle Chronicle)

17. Nothing to see here

Snow scenes at Durham (Mirrorpix)