Having experienced every emotion possible in the tumultuous journey of my degree, I feel more than qualified to comment on the best places for a quick cry in our lovely city. Whether it’s in a busy bar or a secluded spot, this list should provide a crying destination for anyone and everyone.
1. Billy B Level 3 Toilets
Is it any surprise that I, a student at an academically rigorous university, have cried in the library? There’s nothing like the stress of a summer placement falling through. I know that theoretically your university work shouldn’t drive you to tears, but if it does, the likelihood is that you won’t be on your own. I’ve seen and heard many a girl sniffling in those loos, which brings an odd sense of solidarity and togetherness. Maybe girlhood is crying in the Billy B Level 3 toilets? This spot also gains points as your crying will probably be drowned out by the squeaky tap that can be heard for miles around.
2. By the River Wear
Nothing brings a sense of peace and calm like a body of water. I can’t say I’ve ever seen someone else crying here, but I’m convinced this isn’t an original experience. There’s something reassuring about watching something so much bigger than you and whatever you’re crying about just carrying on. Yes, summative season may be dragging its heels, or internship applications might be draining the life from you, but somehow the river keeps flowing. Everything else keeps going, and so will you.
3. Stag’s Head toilets
Yes, I’m evidently an advocate for crying in the bathroom. From personal experience, these specific toilets epitomise the stereotypical girls bathroom; there’s always a story to hear. Whether it’s a girl crashing out over a guy working behind the bar, or someone missing their long-distance boyfriend, you’re usually not the only emotional one in there – and of course, there’s always a gaggle of supportive girl friends in tow. And the beauty of it is, by the next time you’re in there – even if it’s only half an hour later – there’s a new story or dilemma and yours is old news. No one remembers your five minute crash-out over a summative result and it’s onto the next.
4. The Library Bar toilets
I promise I don’t exclusively cry in bars, either. However, the number of projectile vomiters in the toilets means you’re usually safe from being discovered. The dramatics of those who’ve taken it one Jagerbomb too far mean everyone in there is actually too distracted to pay attention to you crying anyway. Dare I say this makes it the most private cry on the list?
5. Observatory Hill
If you’re going to cry, you may as well cry overlooking possibly the most gorgeous view of Durham. Can you really be sad while taking in the cathedral and the castle and the windy cobbled streets on the backdrop of verdant hills? (It turns out, yes.) Depending on the time of year, Observatory Hill provides a more solitary spot to shed a tear. However, avoid it in summer unless you want an audience of about 3 couples and 5 friend groups picnicking post-exams.
6. TLC Café
Perhaps a wild card in this list considering it’s such a public place, but I think I’ve cracked the code with this one. Everyone in Zing Café is far too absorbed in whatever they’re doing to notice you shedding a tear, and the echo provided by the high ceilings covers any sobs you might let loose. The TLC Café gains extra points for those stools down the sides that face the wall – no one will ever know you’re upset. I once cried over a baby elephant here and everyone around me was none the wiser. I may regret not gatekeeping this one.
Featured image via Unsplash (Vullnet Ademaj)
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