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Why we love Durham

A place for roaming Romans, valiant Vikings and wise wizards, Durham is a city bursting with untold stories and magical moments. Cast a spell at Durham Cathedral as you walk in the footsteps of Harry Potter, or captain your own boat down the River Wear.

Sip on the city’s favourite tipples on insider distillery tours, or try local flavours on a foodie discovery. Head off the beaten track through the Durham Dales to the soaring cliff tops of the Durham Heritage Coast. Or watch history come to life at Kynren, an unmissable open-air performance. No matter the adventure, Durham’s spellbinding charm is not to be missed.

House of Hues/The Auckland Project

Kynren open-air theatre performance

During the summer, Auckland Castle hosts Kynren , a cinematic, open-air spectacular. The theatre show takes its audience on a 90-minute journey of epic storytelling, using pyrotechnics, lighting, and stunning effects across a seven-and-a-half-acre outdoor stage. 

VisitBritain/Pinzutu

Durham Castle and Cathedral

Marvel at the fine examples of Gothic and Norman architecture at Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle. Boasting UNESCO World Heritage Site status, walk in the footsteps of history as you explore the late 11th and early 12th century cathedral, followed by the Norman fortress of the castle which stands just behind.

VisitCountyDurham

County Durham, England

Faith Museum

Journey through 6,000 years of the dynamic history of faith in Britain, via over 250 rarely seen objects, national treasures, personal testimonies and art. Time travel as you walk through four dynamic gallery spaces, set over two floors, within the historic Grade I listed Scotland Wing of Auckland Castle. Find out how faith, belief and religion have shaped lives and communities in Britain, and look out for temporary exhibitions showcasing work from established British artists

The Bowes Museum

Designed with French style as inspiration, The Bowes Museum in Barnard Castle, County Durham, exudes elegance. Opened in the late 19th century, the museum boasts collections featuring ceramics, sculptures, paintings and more. Opt for a daily spotlight tour for a friendly and informative introduction to the museum, delivered by a knowledgeable team of guides.

Durham Distillers

The Durham Distillery Experience

A distillery with stories to tell, unearth the tricks of the distilling trade on a Durham Distillery Experience . Delve beneath the surface on a subterranean tour, mix it up for yourself with a gin making class, or get spicy with a cocktail course in the underground bar.

Things to do in Durham

Journey 6,000 years through the history of faith in Britain via rarely seen objects, art and national treasures.

Beamish Museum

Set in 300 acres of County Durham's countryside, this ‘living history’ museum recreates English life in the 1820s, 1900s, 1940s and 1950s.

Durham Fringe Festival

Dip into the arts with performances, magic, music, dance and more in Durham. Watch as artists and performers take to spaces across the city.

The Prince Bishop River Cruiser

Glide down the River Wear on a boat trip that passes the sights of Durham Cathedral, Durham Castle and iconic bridges.

Ioan Said Photography

Grassholme Observatory

An astrologist’s haven, look up into the inky dark skies above Teesdale’s Grassholme Reservoir for an out-of-this-world experience.

North Pennines Stargazing Festival

See the stars at this annual festival that celebrates the cosmos — get into anything from stargazing to astrophotography and night walks.

Gary Lintern Photography/North Pennines AONB Partnership

Raby Castle

If this medieval castle could talk it would tell tales of Vikings, battles and dynasties. Visit now to see wild deer in the park and art collections inside the castle.

Visit County Durham

Durham Pride

Celebrate the 11th anniversary of Durham Pride with music, food, diverse acts and drag queens.

Durham Ghost Walk

Prepare to get spooky as you embark on a tour around Durham city’s dark past.

Auckland Castle

A showstopper of a bishop’s palace, uncover history in the Throne Room, St Peter’s Chapel and transformed state rooms.

Teesdale Cheesemakers

Churn the cheese scene up with a hands-on Cheese Making Day. Led by experts in all things dairy, you’ll learn the basics of making your own cheese.

See Auckland Castle come to life with a dazzling live show of epic storytelling, lighting and stunning effects.

Crook Hall Gardens

Get into nature on the fringes of Durham with winding pathways, stunning gardens and a Grade I listed Medieval hall.

National Trust

Browns Rowing Boats

Glide down the River Wear in a traditional hand-built rowing boat and spot the sights of Durham from the water.

Around Durham City Tours

Explore the city on a 60-minute tour led by in-the-know guides, starting from the centre of Durham and embarking along it’s medieval streets.

Visit England/Diana Jarvis

Be dazzled at the UK’s light art biennial, as international and UK artists transform Durham’s streets.

Castle of Light by Javier Riera at Raby Castle. Photo by Matthew Andrews/Lumiere

Marvel at the fine examples of Gothic and Norman architecture at Durham Cathedral and Castle, both of which boast UNESCO World Heritage Site status.

Featured things to do

Captivating culture at The Auckland Project

Uncover a fusion of heritage attractions, galleries, gardens and parkland in Bishop Auckland, County Durham, as part of The Auckland Project. Look over the historic deer park from Auckland Tower’s 15 metre high viewing platform, discover artwork at the Spanish Gallery or uncover 6,000 years of stories at the Faith Museum.

Growing gardens

Nature awaits at Durham’s Botanic Garden, located within Durham University. Take in the greenery of the Native Woodland for British trees, spot tropical flora in the Glasshouses and spy unique artwork around, from local artists and beyond.

VisitBritain/Aurélie Four

Tuck into a food tour

A foodie’s haven, dip into the flavours of Durham on a food tour that visits the city’s famous indoor food market and popular eateries. Triple A Food Tours offer a journey through Durham’s local produce, alongside a Gin Tour where you’ll sample gins with cheese and charcuterie.

Visit Locomotion

In the exact place where the world’s first steam-powered public railway started, delve into the world of trains and railway history at Locomotion. Feel the power of bold ideas and imagination at the Innovation Platform exhibition, plus, get up close to historic locomotives.

Places to stay in Durham

Durham city.

Durham’s city centre is where you’ll not only find the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Durham Cathedral and Castle, but also hip coffee shops, cultural art spaces and indie boutiques. Choose to stay in one of its central hotels, or look to a B&B or self-catering apartment.

Durham Dales

Let your sense of adventure take hold with a stay in the Durham Dales. A beautiful blend of tranquil landscapes and high adrenaline activities, explore everything from the moors, hills and valleys to flowing rivers and historic towns.

Durham Coast

From coastal hikes to National Nature Reserves, this area boasts some pretty serious scenery and flora. Follow the 8.5 mile (14 kilometre) coastal path for unmissable moments beside the North Sea. Hunker down for the night in an eco-coastal pod, or choose a luxury stay.

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Newcastle upon tyne.

Linked by no fewer than seven bridges, it's one vibrant place to visit.

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Borders and Lowlands

The gateway into Scotland, the Borders and Lowlands pack a punch.

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From palaces to cobbled alleys and even a dormant volcano, this city is a real show-stopper.

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North York Moors

Rugged yet beautiful, wild yet welcoming – the North York Moors National Park is full of surprises.

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Getting to Durham

Durham is well connected to locations across the UK by train, coach and bus. It is under a three-hour journey by train from London Kings Cross Station , while a direct train journey between Durham and Edinburgh Waverly Station takes under two hours. 

Newcastle International Airport  is the nearest airport, from which you can travel directly to Newcastle Central Station on the Metro, before taking a train direct to Durham. 

You can take a National Express Bus or Megabus direct to Durham from London Victoria Coach Station. Travelling by bus can take considerably longer due to traffic, so make sure you are prepared for the journey.

Getting around

Arriva and Go North East provide public bus transport around the city. An Explorer Ticket offers travel across the region.

County Durham is made to be explored by bike. The area offers over 310 miles (500 kilometres) of bridleways and cycle routes down railway paths. You can use Sustrans to plan your cycling journey.

Durham can be easily explored by foot. Routes can be tailored around the city dependent on time and difficulty.

Want to know more?

Head to This is Durham for insider tips from those in the know.

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Downtown Durham

Welcome to Durham, NC

Ever-changing. Never changing.

Durham is a historical haven, a sanctuary for the spectacular, and a rough-cut gem waiting to be unearthed. Durham’s been a destination on the move for more than 150 years. Perhaps it’s time you discovered it too.

Maybe you’ve heard about our celebrated food scene, top-notch universities or buzzing startup culture. There’s just something about this place. It transcends categories. Durham has something intangible, inspiring and absolutely alluring.

Before our sidewalks were lined with award-winning eateries, they were traversed by our first generation of industrious entrepreneurs. Seeds of equality and justice were planted here long ago, and they have blossomed into a colorful community where murals tell our proud story of inclusivity. We are where inspiration is found, where all are welcome and where the wild, wonderful, bold and beautiful come together in unexpected ways.

Want in? Come discover Durham.

the durham way

Do It Where Local Thrives

When you experience local, the food tastes bolder, the art is more inspiring, the shops are more lovingly curated, the drinks are more inventive, the entertainment is more moving, the people are more passionate. See how Durham’s small business pride makes it an unforgettable place to visit.

11 Fun Things to do this Summer

Beach, please. We make our own waves.

Smoky barbecue. Pulsing hip-hop beats. Extravagant fireworks. Sultry late-night cocktails. The world’s largest modern dance festival. This is summer in Durham.

The New York Times made an itinerary for a weekend in Durham. Preview all the spots –

Durham Visitor Guide

We are barbecue and biscuits, locally sourced small plates and craft cocktails. We’re a gritty tobacco-grown town that’s evolved into the City of Medicine. We’re activists, scholars, artists, and entrepreneurs. We’re always moving, creating, and blazing a new trail — you’ll feel that energy when you get here. With our Visitor Guide, we invite you to dive in.

Support Durham's Black-Owned Businesses

The Durham community supports Black-owned businesses. Period. Here is a robust list of over 200 brick-and-mortar spots, entrepreneurial endeavors, and the next generation of Black business owners based in our community.

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DURHAM, MAKE YOUR OWN HISTORY

Immerse yourself in history as you discover durham - a magnificent medieval city and landscape dotted with castles, museums and spectacular natural landmarks..

You get a sense of its historical importance as soon as you arrive in the city centre, where the majestic Durham Cathedral has dominated the skyline for the past 900 years.

With its UNESCO World Heritage Site inscribed castle and cathedral sitting atop a dramatic outcrop overlooking the still waters of the meandering River Wear below, climb the Cathedral Tower's 325 steps for spectacular views of the city and countryside. Or if you’re a fan of Harry Potter visit the Chapter House and Cathedral Cloisters for a Hogwarts experience. Take a student-led tour of Durham Castle: now a Durham University building, the Castle was commissioned by William the Conqueror in 1072 to defend the peninsula.

Where to Stay

Food & drink, landmarks & attractions, things to do.

Meander down cobbled streets into town and grab a picnic to enjoy on the riverbanks while watching boats glide past or choose to view the city - one of the ‘prettiest and most perfect little cities in one of the friendliest corners of the planet’ according to acclaimed bestselling author, Bill Bryson – from a different angle and hire a traditional rowing boat for a leisurely and relaxing trip along the river.

Away from the city, Durham’s dales, vale and coast provide the perfect backdrop for exploring the great outdoors and discovering the region’s cultural heritage. And none more spectacular than the vast expanse of the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and UNESCO Global Geopark, home to dramatic dales landscapes and source of two of the region’s other mighty rivers, the Tees and Wear.

Visit one of the many museums and castles that dot the county, packed with relics and antiquities from times gone by or explore the peaceful and tranquil landscape of moors and hills, valleys and meandering rivers, dotted with picturesque villages and market towns.

Make your own history – visit Durham

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Other places to go, northumberland, south shields, tees valley, tynemouth & whitley bay.

Simply enter your email in the box below to sign up to the Visit North East England newsletter for the latest destination information, special offers and news from North East England.

Places to visit in Durham

The grand Norman-era Durham Cathedral (which plays a role in Harry Potter), and nearby fairy-tale, turreted castle have the words 'World Heritage Site' written all over them. The majestic north east city of Durham is a historical treasure trove; castles nestle in riversides, parks thrive with deer, and living museums radiate with industrial heritage, but that’s just a taste of the best places to visit in Durham. Bring your map to visit Durham County and the North Pennines where there are miles of heather-carpeted dales to explore. And sports fans aren't short of things to do in Durham – it’s 'cricket mad', especially when The Ashes come to town.

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Top things to do in County Durham

Tucked away in North East England, the lovely County of Durham has plenty of surprises up its sleeve.

Get back to nature at High Force waterfall

Explore a peaceful landscape of moors and hills, valleys, waterfalls and rivers dotted with picturesque villages and historic market towns.

Location: Durham Dales

Retrace Turner's footsteps in Durham

Durham’s landscapes and iconic buildings have inspired several of England’s great artists and writers, including the master painter JMW Turner.

Location: Durham Dales, Durham

Discover the walled gardens at medieval Raby Castle

Visit one of England’s finest medieval castles, and explore the medieval walled gardens and 200 acre deer park.

Discover wildlife and the history of Derwent Reservoir

Spot red squirrels, adders and bog plants at Derwent Reservoir and Pow Hill Country Park in the Durham Dales.

Barnard Castle in the Durham Dales

A walking architectural history lesson.

Location: Barnard Castle, Durham Dales

Take your senses on a trip back in time at Beamish

Touch, taste, hear, see and smell history on an unforgettable journey into the past at England’s largest open-air museum.

Location: Vale of Durham

Sit in Harry Potter's classroom at Durham Cathedral

Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry came to life via a number of locations across the UK, one of which was the awe-inspiring Durham Cathedral.

Location: Durham City, Durham

July festivals: Durham Brass

Brass is given a modern twist with art installations in the streets and a dose of contemporary hip hop at BRASS Durham International Festival.

Location: Durham

Soak up the atmosphere and changing colours of Durham City

Wrap up warm and enjoy walks amongst a leafy Durham City this autumn, and discover the timeless magic of Crook Hall for a wonderfully English experience.

December events: Enjoy a city Christmas festival with a difference

Experience the timeless beauty of Durham City as you explore the traditional Durham Christmas festival this winter.

Watch the sunrise over the Durham Heritage Coast

Grab an early morning hot drink from the marina and watch the sunrise from the lively town of Seaham before setting off on a windswept walk with dramatic views.

Location: Durham Coast, Durham

Marvel at Durham’s UNESCO World Heritage Site

Be awestruck by Durham Cathedral and Castle, take a relaxing stroll on the banks of the River Wear, and soak up a city as beautiful as it is historic.

Enjoy a river tour of Durham City

Set off in your very own rowboat on the beautiful River Wear or enjoy a guided river cruise aboard the Prince Bishops River Cruiser.

Location: Durham City

Delve into Durham’s historic treasure troves

Step back in time and admire world-class art at captivating castles and manor houses across the county.

Location: Vale of Durham / Durham Dales

Discover 2,000 years of history at Durham Cathedral

Open Treasure is Durham Cathedral’s new world-class visitor experience, located in the most intact surviving set of medieval monastic buildings in the UK.

Discover your wild side at 'Beamish Wild' in Durham

Swing from the treetops in ancient woodland, but keep your eyes on the prize as a refreshing real ale awaits in the micro-brewery & restaurant below.

Location: Vale of Durham, Durham

Fall in love in the Durham Dales

Explore the rugged beauty of the Durham Dales’s rolling pastures and open moorland among the falling leaves and changing colours of the landscapes on a romantic break.

Peep into Durham’s locomotive past

Discover Durham’s role in the development of the railways at Locomotion, the National Railway Museum at Shildon.

Discover a castle fit for a prince

Explore artistic treasures in Auckland Castle, home of the Prince Bishops of Durham for 900 years, and set to host a spectacular new show from 2016.

Journey through British history at Kynren

Experience an epic storytelling journey through time at this spectacular live-action night show in Durham.

Location: Bishop Auckland, Durham

Set off in search of sea glass on the Durham Coast

Search for sea glass, walk the coastal footpath, visit the county’s only marina and enjoy dramatic views in a five-star luxury spa hotel.

Location: Seaham, Durham Coast

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All the best things to do in Durham, England

Aug 29, 2022 • 6 min read

The lovely River Wear flows through Durham, making it easy at moments to feel like you’re in the countryside © SolStock / Getty Images

Northeast England  is elbows-deep in history – and nowhere is the region’s legacy more evident than in Durham.

One of Christianity’s most important saints is entombed at Durham Cathedral, making the city a pilgrimage destination for worshippers from across the globe. Yet Durham is also a thriving student town, with a cascade of cute cobbled streets that lead down to riverside bars in the shadow of a spectacular Norman castle. Come for the history – and stay for the haunted pubs, northern food and small-town vibes.

Here are all the best things to do in Durham, England.

Tour the castle with students

Durham Castle was built in 1072 after the Norman invasion, and in the 1800s it was taken over by Durham University and converted into student accommodation. This unique history makes it a fascinating place to tour and one of the best things to do in Durham today – especially with a student as your guide. Over 90 minutes, you’ll get to explore a subterranean chapel with an unusual mermaid relief, browse Civil War artifacts and hear how the university decides which student gets the room in the keep’s gatehouse each year. Originally constructed to protect the Normans from disgruntled Northumberland locals, the castle’s defensive position – surrounded by cliffs that drop into a fast-moving river – makes it a spectacular focal point for the modern city.   

Look for Harry Potter in the Cathedral cloisters

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Durham is the arched cloisters of Durham Cathedral , which were used as a set for the first two Harry Potter films over 20 years ago. The cathedral’s Chapter House (which can only be glimpsed through a keyhole) served as the set for a classroom scene with Professor McGonagall, while some of the items from the cathedral’s museum collection became props in the films. Settle in for a coffee at the cafe on the western side of the cloisters and look out for fans dressed up in wizarding cloaks on the hunt for the perfect selfie.

Stroll Durham’s Riverwalk 

Since Durham isn’t a particularly large city (population 50,000) and since the city center is surrounded on three sides by the River Wear, it’s easy to feel like you’re in the countryside along certain lengths of the waterfront. Strolling around the city center’s teardrop-shaped peninsula via the Riverwalk loop shows the city’s leafy side and is one of the best free things to do in town. The trail is ringed by mature trees and passes several of Durham’s college boathouses, where rowers can often be found practicing with their crews. 

Climb the Cathedral tower

There are 325 steps up to the top of Durham Cathedral’s central tower, wound like a tightly coiled spring around a series of dizzying spiral staircases. The climb is not for the faint-hearted, but the 360-degree views from the top are unique in Durham, showing the old city spread out like a toy town. Although Durham Cathedral dates to the 1100s, the tower was rebuilt around the beginning of the 16th century, after significant damage from successive lightning strikes. Some of the most interesting views from atop the tower’s parapet are close-in ones, showing the cathedral’s skeletal footprint surrounding the base of the viewing platform. 

Go in search of St Cuthbert

No one was more revered in the Anglo-Saxon kingdom of Northumbria than Cuthbert, the 7th-century saint credited with spreading Christianity across the north of England. One of the most important religious figures in the UK, he lived and died in the region after holding the position of prior at Lindesfarne’s island monastery . 

His body is interred at Durham Cathedral, making it one of England’s most sacred pilgrimage sites. Pay your respects at his hushed shrine behind the High Altar, before visiting the museum’s subterranean St Cuthbert exhibition, which includes remnants of the coffin in which he was laid to rest in 698 CE, as well as the gold-and-garnet pectoral cross he was entombed with. 

Get arty at Fowlers Yard

Hidden beneath Milburngate Bridge beside the River Wear, Fowlers Yard is a well-preserved cobbled street now being redeveloped as Durham’s arts quarter. You’ll find the City Theatre here, along with Leonard’s Coffee House (come for brunch) – but the real draw are the nine creative workspaces that occupy the old stables and warehouses. Tapestry weaving, wool spinning, jewelry design, print making and hand embroidery are among the arts on display. If you’re lucky, you might catch the artists and artisans at work as you browse the workshops.  

Take tea with seniors at Durham Indoor Market

Like a good rummage? Then don’t miss Durham’s old-fashioned covered market , where 60 independent traders hawk everything from secondhand books and music to Moroccan lanterns and speciality teas. The market hall was built in 1851, though since today its original Victorian features are mostly gone what remains feels more like a secret bazaar. Don’t miss the mezzanine Cafe Cenno , where local pensioners congregate in the rafters to people-watch with a cuppa above the patchwork of stalls.   

Follow the vennels to find hyper-local food 

Old Durham is full of tiny alleyways and side passages called “vennels” – a word only found in parts of Scotland and the Northeast. Today, these tiny back streets offer a fascinating behind-the-scenes view of the city center and also lead to some of Durham’s most atmospheric places to eat. One local institution is the Vennels Cafe , which takes its name from the narrow passage you need to find to reach its lovely outdoor courtyard terrace. 

According to local lore, it was here in 1720 that one Mrs Clements developed the recipe for the first English mustard. Two centuries later, locals and tourists alike flock here for delicious scones and giant wedges of homemade quiche. For something more upmarket with an equally historic atmosphere, try Cellar Door , an alleyway restaurant inside a 13th-century cellar conversion with a secret outdoor riverside terrace. The restaurant specializes in modern British food, sourced wherever possible from a within 1-mile radius or foraged from nearby woods.  

Sample gins at one of the smallest bars around

What was once a hog-roast takeout joint and before that a juice bar has now been kitted out as Durham’s smallest drinking den. The Tin of Sardines clings to the edge of Durham’s 12th-century Elvet Bridge. Outdoor terrace seating pops up on bright days, though it’s most fun inside, where you can watch drinkers getting cozy by riverside windows over balloon glasses filled with global gins, and the barman climbing the ladder to reach dozens of bottles on shelves that stretch to the ceiling.

The Tin of Sardines’ sister venue, Old Tom’s Gin Bar  is an equally interesting spot along the river, with more than 250 gins squeezed into a wood-beamed house notable for its over-the-top decor (think Victorian wallpaper, leather upholstery and a clown swinging from a trapeze above).

Admire the specimens at Durham’s Botanic Garden

Dating back to the 1920s, Durham’s Botanic Garden  was originally established by the university as an experimental garden on the grounds of the science laboratories. Fast-forward almost 100 years and the gardens are still owned by Durham University and used to support teaching and research (though they’ve moved to a bigger site on the southern edge of the city). Over 10 hectares (25 acres), you can wander through mature woodlands where bluebells flower in spring, a Carboniferous Garden established by earth-science students to tell the history of coal in County Durham, and also several outdoor sculptures dotted among the grounds.

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Durham World Heritage Site Visitor Centre, located inside Palace Green Library

© Durham University

Durham's World Heritage Site Visitor Centre, is a free facility open seven days a week.  It provides visitors with an overview of the World Heritage Site, including information about what it means to be a World Heritage Site, what makes Durham significant, and what there is to see and do in Durham.

Staff are available to provide advice and information about Durham and its heritage.

We’re open daily 10am – 5pm

Email: [email protected]

Address: Durham World Heritage Site Visitor Centre, Palace Green Library, Durham, DH1 3RN

Many activities take place across the World Heritage Site, including art exhibitions, talks, seminars, musical events, and family activities.

Children at an event on the World Heritage Site.

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12 Top-Rated Attractions & Things to Do in Durham

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Feb 15, 2022

The old center of Durham, with its magnificent cathedral perched high above the River Wear, is a never-to-be-forgotten sight. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the old city center boasts 600 listed buildings, including Crook Hall, Kingsgate Bridge, Elvet Bridge, and the Town Hall.

Durham is one of the most visited of England's many beautiful cities and boasts plenty of fun things to do. Highlights include exploring its historic architecture to dining at its many restaurants, as well as shopping in locations such as the popular Indoor Market .

To learn more about why this is one of the best places to visit, be sure to read our list of the top attractions and things to do in Durham.

1. Take a Guided Tour of Durham Cathedral

2. the treasures of st. cuthbert, 3. durham castle, 4. durham university museum of archaeology, 5. oriental museum, 6. durham university botanic garden, 7. durham museum and heritage centre, 8. take a trip to the past at beamish, the living museum of the north, 9. durham town hall, 10. take the kids to wharton park, 11. finchale priory, 12. ivesley equestrian centre, a brief history of durham.

Durham Cathedral – or, to give it its full title, The Cathedral Church of Christ, Blessed Mary the Virgin, and St. Cuthbert of Durham – is famous for its beautiful British Romanesque-style architecture. Whether approached from the narrow streets of the Old City across Palace Green or from the banks of the River Wear over Prebends Bridge, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is truly awe-inspiring.

Completed between 1093 and 1133 (with a few 15th-century flourishes), the building is entered by the 12th-century northwest door once used by fugitives seeking sanctuary. Inside, visitors will be faced with many wonderful sights to explore. Highlights include the graceful Galilee Chapel , the Norman Nave with its massive piers and columns, as well as the Cathedral Tower (it's a 325-step climb to the top, so be prepared for a little exertion).

The cathedral also boasts the most intact set of medieval claustral buildings in the UK, including the 14th-century cloister featured in the first Harry Potter film. Guided tours of Durham Cathedral are offered daily and take 1.25 hours. The cathedral also has an excellent adult learning program for visitors wanting to know more about the area's history and includes lectures, workshops, and tours of the surrounding woods and riverbanks.

The Cathedral Library and Archive is also available to those interested in specific aspects of the cathedral's history. For those wanting to linger, a restaurant and gift shop are located on the premises.

Location: The College, Durham

Official site: www.durhamcathedral.co.uk

Located in a part of Durham Cathedral that once served as a monks' dormitory, The Treasures of St. Cuthbert include a variety of the attraction's most important collections and relics, representing more than 900 years of history.

Its oldest exhibits are the 7th-century wooden coffin of St. Cuthbert, a silver plate collection that once belonged to the Prince Bishops of Durham, and numerous ancient books.

Of special interest is the Conyers Falchion, an ancient sword used by Sir John Conyers to kill the legendary Sockburn Worm. These days, the only action the sword sees is when it's presented to each new Bishop of Durham upon entering the diocese at Croft Bridge for the first time.

The monks' quarters are themselves well worth seeing. A highlight is the monks' kitchen, which features a remarkably well-preserved octagonal ceiling and no less than eight fireplaces. Also of interest are the fascinating displays depicting the lives of the monks.

This popular tourist attraction also houses the original knocker used by sanctuary seekers in medieval times, a replica of which now graces the cathedral's main door.

Official site: www.durhamcathedral.co.uk/visit-us/open-treasure/treasures-of-st-cuthbert

Built as a fortress by the Earl of Northumberland in 1072, Durham Castle – also part of the Durham UNESCO World Heritage Site – was presented by William the Conqueror to the city's prince-bishops. The most interesting rooms are the Norman Chapel, with its delightful carved archaic capitals; the large 14th-century dining-hall; the 16th-century chapel; and 17th-century Black Stairs complete with pineapple carvings.

The castle is also home to University College, the founding college of Durham University. More than 100 students live here, making this a truly unique building with more than 900 years of living history. For a truly memorable experience, look into availing yourself of the castle's unique B&B stays (during student vacations only). Tours of the castle are included with your stay.

Location: Palace Green, Durham

Official site: https://www.dur.ac.uk/durham.castle/

The Museum of Archaeology – located in Durham University's Palace Green Library – houses finds from the Roman, Anglo-Saxon, and Norman periods. The museum also boasts a sizable collection of medieval artifacts, many of them discovered in the old city center during major archaeological digs in the late 20th century.

The library is also home to the university's special collections, archives, and early printed books, including more than 70,000 volumes printed before 1850. Entry to the museum and library are free, as is admission to its lectures and educational programming.

Location: Palace Green Library, Durham

Official site: www.dur.ac.uk/archaeology.museum

The University of Durham's Oriental Museum on Elvet Hill, just a short distance from the old city center, has excellent art and archaeological collections from the Near and Far East. All of the major eastern cultures and periods are represented, from Ancient Egypt and India, to Tibet, China, and Japan.

Highlights include ancient pottery and jewelry, stone sculptures, and antique arms and armor. If possible, try to time your trip to coincide with one of the museum's special "touch tours ," when visitors are given the unique opportunity to handle some of their most precious artifacts.

A shop and café are located on-site for those wanting to extend their stay. And be sure to check the museum's website for news of visiting touring exhibits and special events.

Location: Elvet Hill Road, South Road, Durham

Official site: www.dur.ac.uk/oriental.museum

Occupying a 25-acre site just south of Durham City, Durham University Botanic Garden is well worth a visit. In addition to its many year-round programs and events, highlights include numerous plant collections from around the world, including China and South Africa. There's also a lovely woodland garden, an alpine garden, and a bamboo grove to explore.

The garden's impressive glasshouses are also worth checking out. These include collections of tropical rainforest plants, desert plants, and more familiar plants from the Mediterranean. Also interesting are the displays of tropical bugs, stick insects, scorpions, and tarantulas. Afterwards, pop into the visitor center with its café and gift shop.

Other notable gardens worthy of a visit are the English gardens at 13th-century Crook Hall , just a short walk from the cathedral. Tours and talks are available and are highly recommended.

Address: Hollingside Lane, South Road, Durham

Official site: www.dur.ac.uk/botanic.garden/

The Durham Museum and Heritage Centre contains many informative and educational exhibitions relating to the town's rich heritage. Housed in a medieval church, it includes excellent audio-visual shows, brass rubbings, and a collection of beautiful stained glass windows.

Another great place to gather useful information about the city's past is the World Heritage Site Visitor Centre . Here, you'll find a variety of displays and exhibits relating the story behind the city's many historic buildings through film and interactive displays.

Location: St. Mary-le-Bow, North Bailey, Durham

Official site: http://durhammuseum.co.uk

This fantastic living museum, set in 300 acres of beautiful countryside just 10 miles outside Durham, offers a look into the lives of those who lived in the area during the Georgian, Victorian, and Edwardian eras. Costumed characters bring the displays to life and help tell the amazing story of how the Industrial Revolution transformed the region.

Incredibly, all the buildings at Beamish were brought brick-by-brick from across Durham County and rebuilt on-site. Beamish also hosts numerous exciting events , including The Great North Festival of Transport, a Georgian Fair, and The Great North Festival of Agriculture.

And if you expect to make a day of it (you certainly should!), you can enjoy a snack or meal at any one of the many different eateries at Beamish, along with some great shopping opportunities.

Official site: www.beamish.org.uk

The interior of the Grade-II-listed Durham Town Hall is well worth taking a peek at. Its modest, glass-fronted reception gallery hides a variety of period rooms, including the dramatic Main Hall, with its stained-glass windows and hammer beam oak roof.

Also worth seeing is the Crush Hall. Here, you'll find some fascinating memorabilia regarding the life of Count Boruwlaski. Just 39 inches tall, the once famous Count died in 1837 at age 98.

Address: Market Place, Durham

Covering 10 acres, Wharton Park is the perfect place to visit if you're traveling with kids in need of letting off some steam. Located just a short distance from Durham Cathedral and the city's busy train station, Wharton Park offers a variety of activities for families to enjoy.

Established in the mid-18th century, its setting on a hill makes it the perfect vantage spot to watch trains come and go, including historic locos and rolling stock as they trundle over the famous Durham viaduct.

It's also a great place to take photos of the cathedral and other city landmarks – even more fun when accompanied by a picnic! For the best views, look out for the mock battlements. Here, you'll find a number of well-placed viewing platforms.

The amphitheater here is also great to photograph – especially when in use (check out the facility's website for details of performances, concerts, and other events). There's also a fun mini race track where the kids can take control of their very own electric car. Fun educational workshops for young and old alike are also offered.

Address: 10 Princes Street, Durham

Official site: www.durham.gov.uk/whartonpark

Finchale Priory is an English Heritage property located just minutes from downtown Durham. The charming remains of this once grand 12th century priory lie beside the River Wear and are well worth exploring.

Built in 1196 on an even earlier pilgrimage site, it served for some 400 years as a place of rest and relaxation for monks from nearby Durham Cathedral. Admission is free.

Location: Finchale Avenue, Framwellgate Moor, County Durham

Official site: www.english-heritage.org.uk/visit/places/finchale-priory

Ivesley, set amid 220 acres of beautiful countryside just six miles from Durham, is a must-visit for those interested in horses and equestrian sports. Amenities include an indoor school, show jumps, and several cross-country courses that can be accessed via professional teaching and schooling opportunities or rented out privately.

A highlight of a visit is the chance to explore the many nearby riding trails. The center is approved by the British Horse Society, and all instructors are BHS-trained. A variety of riding holidays are available, including stays in the center's B&B-style accommodations.

Location: Waterhouses, Durham

Official site: www.ivesleyequestrian.co.uk

Much of the city's early prosperity stemmed from its strategic position on the route to Scotland, as well as the powerful draw of St. Cuthbert's shrine. At the same time, the beautiful surrounding countryside was divided into large estates on which feudal barons erected splendid castles.

From the early modern period onwards, the coal industry came to play an increasingly important role, and pitheads and chimneys soon dotted the landscape. In the 19th century, the population swelled with an influx of immigrant workers, and while industrialists built grand houses, working class districts grew, and trade unions were founded. In fact, the annual Durham Miners' Gala is still a major event on the local calendar.

More on England

• 1.1 Orientation
• 1.3 History
• 1.4 Climate
• 1.5 Visitor Information
• 2.1 By plane
• 2.2 By train
• 2.3.1 Park & Ride
• 2.3.2 Car parking
• 3 Get around
• 4.1 Peninsula
• 4.2 Elsewhere
• 4.3 Further out

<a href=\"https://tools.wmflabs.org/wikivoyage/w/poi2gpx.php?print=gpx&amp;lang=en&amp;name=Durham_(England)\" title=\"Download GPX file for this article\" data-parsoid=\"{}\"><img alt=\"Download GPX file for this article\" resource=\"./File:GPX_Document_rev3-20x20.png\" src=\"//upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/f/f7/GPX_Document_rev3-20x20.png\" decoding=\"async\" data-file-width=\"20\" data-file-height=\"20\" data-file-type=\"bitmap\" height=\"20\" width=\"20\" class=\"mw-file-element\" data-parsoid='{\"a\":{\"resource\":\"./File:GPX_Document_rev3-20x20.png\",\"height\":\"20\",\"width\":\"20\"},\"sa\":{\"resource\":\"File:GPX Document rev3-20x20.png\"}}'/></a></span>"}'/> Durham is a city in County Durham in North East England. The name is believed to derive from "Dun-holme", or hill-island, due to its location on a meander on the River Wear. On this peninsula lies the well-preserved old core of the city, with an imposing Norman Cathedral and Castle. The castle is part of University College Durham, while the modern University has expanded south of the river.

Bill Bryson was quite taken by Durham, writing in Notes from a Small Island (1995), "Why, it's a perfect little city. If you have never been to Durham, go there at once. Take my car. It's wonderful." The compliment was returned in 2004 when Durham University made Bryson its Chancellor.

Orientation

The River Wear flows north through the city, making an incised meander which encloses the centre on three sides to form Durham's peninsula. At the base of the peninsula is the Market Place, which still hosts regular markets; a permanent indoor market, Durham Indoor Market, is also situated just off the Market Place. The Market Place and surrounding streets are one of the main commercial and shopping areas of the city. From the Market Place, the Bailey leads south past Palace Green; The Bailey is almost entirely owned and occupied by the university and the cathedral.

Durham is a hilly city, claiming to be built upon the symbolic seven hills. Upon the most central and prominent position high above the Wear, the cathedral dominates the skyline. The steep riverbanks are densely wooded, adding to the picturesque beauty of the city. West of the city centre, another river, the River Browney, drains south to join the Wear to the south of the city.

There are three old roads out of the Market Place: Saddler Street heads south-east, towards Elvet Bridge, the Bailey and Prebends Bridge. Elvet Bridge leads to the Elvet area of the city, Durham Prison and the south; Prebends Bridge is smaller and provides access from the Bailey to south Durham. Heading west, Silver Street leads out of the Market Place towards Framwellgate Bridge and North Road, the other main shopping area of the city. From here, the city spreads out into the Framwelgate, Crossgate, Neville's Cross and viaduct districts, which are largely residential areas. Beyond the viaduct lie the outlying districts of Framwellgate Moor and Neville's Cross. Heading north from the Market Place leads to Claypath. The road curves back round to the east and beyond it lie Gilesgate, Gilesgate Moor and Dragonville.

The name "Durham" is believed to derive from Dun-holme which is made up from two parts, firstly dun which comes from the Brythonic language meaning hill fort and secondly holme which comes from the Old Norse for island. The legend of the Dun Cow and the milkmaid is where some believe the name derives from, the legend states that the monks carrying St Cuthbert's body were guided to the current site of the city in 995 by the Dun Cow and milkmaid. Throughout its history the city has been known by many names, the nordic Dun-holme became Duresme with the Norman Conquest, then became Dunelm in Latin which over time has morphed into the modern form, Durham .

The site of the city can be traced back to AD 995, when monks from Lindisfarne came to the high peninsular with the body of St Cuthbert to settle here, as the geography of the meander provided great strategic value. The church built by the monks only lasted around a century, when the Norman Conquest happened the current Durham Cathedral and Castle were built. Durham Castle is the only Norman castle keep to have never suffered a breach. The city has played a part in many key battles especially against the Scots, in 1346 the Battle of Neville's Cross took place where the Scots suffered a heavy defeat (located about 1 mile outside the city centre on the A690 towards Crook).

Due to the city's location being so far from Westminster, the city had a great amount of autonomy with the Bishop of Durham having power similar to that of the monarch, the city fell under what was known as the County Palatine of Durham, which was the jurisdiction that the Bishop had control over from 1071 until 1832. Some of the powers the Bishop of Durham had included the ability to raise their own parliament, raise their own armies, appoint their own sheriffs and Justices, administer their own laws, levy taxes and customs duties, create fairs and markets, issue charters, salvage shipwrecks, collect revenue from mines, administer the forests and mint their own coins. Henry VIII curtailed some of the powers the Bishops had, and in 1538 ordered the destruction of the shrine of St Cuthbert. During the Commonwealth period (1649-1660), Oliver Cromwell sold Durham Castle to the Lord Mayor of London and the Cathedral was closed in 1650 in order to house 3,000 Scottish prisoners. This period, with the abolition of the Church of England, restricted more of the Bishop of Durham's powers. After the Restoration in 1660, a lot of the powers returned to the Bishops.

In 1801, the first census showed the population of the city to be 7,100. The Industrial Revolution did not have a great impact upon the city and mostly passed it by, however the city did have large manufacturing in carpet making and weaving. Production of mustard and coal mining were also very prominent in the city and surrounding county. Coal mining became the county's main industry until the 1970s. Many villages in the surrounding suburbs of the city were established for the purposes of sinking a coal mine, although these pits no longer exist due to regional decline in heavy industry, the community, spirit and passion surrounding the coal-mining heritage is still very strong in a lot of communities. The first Durham Miner's Gala was held in 1871 and was attended by 5,000 miners, it is still held annually (usually the 1st Saturday in July) and is now attended by tens of thousands of people (mostly with mining heritage and ancestry). The 19th century saw the creation of Durham University, which now has a large presence in the city with a lot of student accommodation in the surrounding suburbs.

Durham suffered heavily during the Great Depression, however the university during this time thrived and expanded. St John's College and St Cuthbert's Society were founded. From the 1950s to the 1970s the university expanded to the south of the city centre with the foundation of Trevelyan, Van Mildert, Collingwood and Grey colleges. The final addition to the university came in 1979 with the migration of the College of St Hild and St Bede. The city escaped the bombing during World War 2, with very little damage to the city and the creation of another legend known as 'St Cuthbert's Mist', which states that a mist fell over the city when the Luftwaffe attempted their bombing raids thus protecting the castle and cathedral.

UNESCO named 'Durham Castle and Cathedral' as a World Heritage Site in 1986. The wider county also features more UNESCO sites including Beamish Museum, Auckland Castle and Killhope - North East Lead Mining Museum.

Durham has a temperate climate, like the rest of the United Kingdom. At 651.1 millimetres (26 in) the average annual rainfall is lower than the national average of 1,125 millimetres (44 in). Equally there are only around 122 days where more than 1 millimetre (0.04 in) of rain falls compared with a national average of 154.4 days. The area sees on average 1445.4 hours of sunshine per year, compared with a national average of 1125.0 hours. There is frost on 51.5 days compared with a national average of 55.6 days. Average daily maximum and minimum temperatures are 12.5 and 5.2 °C (54.5 and 41.4 °F) compared with a national averages of 12.1 and 5.1 °C (53.8 and 41.2 °F) respectively. The highest temperature recorded at Durham was 36.9 °C (98.4 °F) during July 2022.

Visitor Information

• Tourist Information - ThisIsDurham

The Visitor Contact Centre is not open to the public, but can be contacted by phone ( +44 3000 262626 ) or email ( [email protected] ). There are also multiple Visitor Information Points across the city:

• Durham Town Hall - Market Place, Durham City, County Durham, DH1 3NJ. M-F 08:00–16:00.
• Durham Indoor Market - Market Place, Durham City, County Durham, DH1 3NJ. 09:00–16:30, closed Su. - unmanned.
• Gala Theatre - Millennium Place, Durham City, County Durham, DH1 1WA. M-Sa 10:00–20:30, Su 14:30–20:30, closed bank holidays. - unmanned.
• World Heritage Site - Palace Green Library, 7 Owengate, Durham City, County Durham, DH1 3HB. 10:00–17:00.

Manchester Airport ( MAN   IATA ) is approx. 150 miles (250 km) south, but it has a much greater choice of destinations, more competitive fares, and an hourly direct train to Durham (2 hr 30 min). Other trains, with similar travel times, have a change at York or Manchester Piccadilly. Single walk-up rail fare is around £62 but advance fares can be less than a third of this.

The various London airports have little to no advantage over Manchester, and they all involve getting from the airport into central London, before travelling north from London Kings Cross.

Durham is on the East Coast Main Line and has excellent train services. Trains to Newcastle are frequent with journeys only taking 15 mins. LNER, CrossCountry, TransPennine Express and Northern services run from this station, the latter being quite infrequent. Southbound services run from platform 1 and northbound services run from platform 2.

Follow A1(M), exit at J62 and follow A690 into the city centre. For the University campus south of the city, a faster route from the south is to exit at J61 and follow A177 through Shincliffe.

Park & Ride

If you're just here on a day-trip, use the Park & Ride service (P&R) on the outskirts of the city suburbs; the old city centre does not have very good infrastructure for driving or parking. Parking is free providing you use the P&R service. A bus ticket is £2 per person, and will be valid for the entire day. Buses run every 15 minutes.

The P&R sites are:

• Belmont, DH1 1SR (Route PR1), located just off A1(M) J62 and is clearly signposted - daily last bus 18:30.
• Howlands Farm, South Road, DH1 3TQ (Route PR2), located less than one mile after joining A177 at the A167 / A177 roundabout - M-Sa last bus 18:37.
• Sniperley, DH1 5RA (Route PR3), north of the city on A691 near the hospital - daily last bus 18:36.

P&R opening hours: 07:00–19:00 (Howlands Farm - closed Su)

PR2 is also frequently used by members of the nearby Stephenson College and Josephine Butler College on the Howlands Farm site, which can lead to crowded buses on the weekends.

Car parking

There are a number of car parks in the city centre:

• The Sands (multi-storey, 277 vehicles) - Riverside Place, Durham, DH1 1SL. 24 hours daily. - Tariff applies between 08:00–22:00, 0–2 hours: £1.60, 80p/hour thereafter.
• Providence Row (19 vehicles) - Providence Row, Durham, DH1 1LH. 24 hours daily. - Tariff applies between M-Sa 08:00–18:00, 30p/30 mins.
• Sidegate (107 vehicles) - Sidegate, Durham, DH1 5SY. 24 hours daily. - Tariff applies between 08:00–22:00, 0–2 hours: £1.60, 80p/hour thereafter.
• Prince Bishops (multi-storey) - DH1 3UJ. 06:00–00:00. - Tariffs apply. See website for details.
• The Riverwalk (multi-storey) - 1 Framwellgate Bridge, Durham, County Durham, DH1 4SL. Car park 1: 07:00–18:00. Car park 2: 24 hours daily. - Tariffs apply. See website for details.
• Walkergate (multi-storey, 500 vehicles) - 24 hours daily. - Tariffs apply. See website for details.
• LNER - Durham Railway Station (358 vehicles) - 24 hours daily. - Tariffs apply. See website for details.

It is advised not to attempt parking in the old centre or "Peninsula", as the streets are extremely narrow and offer almost no roadside parking spaces. The city centre does operate a congestion charge system between the hours of 10:00–16:00 (no charge on Sundays or bank holidays) in the Market Place, after leaving the zone you must pay before midnight.

National Express connects Durham direct to London Victoria, once per day (NX425) and one overnight (NX435), 7 hr. They also run to Newcastle (twice daily, 30 min).

Go North East Angel 21 runs between Durham and Newcastle every 30 min or so, taking about an hour. These run daily via Gateshead, Birtley (for "Angel of the North") and Chester-le-Street, between 16:00 and 00:00 and the Angel N21 runs F-Sa between 00:00 and 05:00.

Arriva North East 7 runs between Durham and Darlington every 30 min, taking about an hour.

Arriva North East X12 runs between Durham and Middlesbrough, M-Sa every 30 min and hourly on Sunday, taking 1 hr 20 min.

The new Durham Bus Station (opened Jan 2024) is on North Road, 200 yards west of the river, just south of the railway station.

DFDS operate an overnight ferry between Port of Tyne, North Shields (near Newcastle) and Ijmuiden near Amsterdam. 16 hr 45 min.

See Newcastle page for how to reach the ferry terminal: in brief, take the train between Durham and Newcastle, then the shuttle bus (£3.80 each way, 30 min) or Metro to the ferry.

Walk . The centre of Durham is compact and congested, driving is tedious and parking (other than that mentioned above) is effectively non-existent.

Durham Cathedral Bus runs Monday to Saturday between Durham train station and the Cathedral, with stops at Durham University, city centre and Durham Castle. Tickets are £1.00 for adults and 50p for children 13 years and under, concessions apply and a P&R ticket is also valid for this bus.

For visitors with reduced mobility there is a Shopmobility scheme from Prince Bishops Place car park (Level 1. M-F 10:00–16:00), but bear in mind that Durham's pavements are narrow and winding, and the streets in many places cobbled and/or steep.

• 54.7769 -1.575 1 Market Place is the pleasant square at the base of the Peninsula. The fine fellow mounted on a horse is Charles Vane (1778-1854), 3rd Marquess of Londonderry. He's not here for his dashing contribution to the Peninsular War under Wellington, but because he owned land around Durham. He was furious when the government banned child labour down his coal mines, as only a boy of eight was small enough to get into the thinnest seams. He went on to spend lavishly on his Londonderry property during the Irish Famine but gave only a measly donation to the relief fund.
• 54.7702 -1.5772 7 The Count's House is a Georgian folly, a cod-Grecian temple at the tip of the Peninsula. Józef Boruwłaski (1739-1837) was a dwarf who became a court favourite among Polish nobility, toured Europe, and was a talented musician. He retired to live in Durham where he knew the cathedral organist, and the folly may have stood in his garden. He's believed to be a pituitary dwarf as his proportions were normal; he kept growing to age 30 (reaching 99 cm tall) and lived to be 97.

• Elvet the district east of the river loop has many attractive Georgian and Victorian buildings, though it's mixed with modern structures and doesn't have the same charm as the Peninsula.
• Palatine Centre on Stockton Road has displays about print-making, open M-F 9AM-5PM.
• 54.7638 -1.5814 11 Oriental Museum , Elvet Hill Rd DH1 3TH , ☏ +44 191 334 5694 . Tu-F 10AM-5PM, Sa Su noon-5PM . Part of Durham University, this museum displays artefacts from across Asia and North Africa. Search their online data base for material not on display. Free . ( updated Jan 2024 )
• 54.769 -1.561 13 Maiden Castle is somewhere under the thickets of a mound by the river, which may once have encircled it. It's dated to the Iron Age, which reached this far north by the 5th century BC, and may have been reinforced in the Middle Ages. The name "Maiden" usually denotes a castle that has never been conquered, but how would anyone know of its prehistoric campaigns?

Further out

• Walk the scenic meander on the River Wear, for great views of the cathedral. There are footpaths both sides.
• Gala Theatre & Cinema is on Millennium Square behind Walkergate Shopping Centre, Box Office +44 3000 266 600.
• Odeon Luxe is a larger cinema on Millburngate just west across the river.
• Prince Bishop River Cruises start from New Elvet Bridge and putter along the Wear for an hour, £12 in 2023. Dogs are allowed and there's a bar, toilets and wheelchair access. There's only a limited view of sights such as the cathedral, but it's a relaxing hour with droll commentary by the skipper.
• Brown's Boats are also at New Elvet Bridge. They hire rowing boats Apr-Sep, for £10 adult £5 child in 2023.
• Freeman's Quay is a sports and leisure centre next to Premier Inn, with gym, fitness classes and pool.
• Golf: nearby courses are Durham City , Brancepeth Castle , Ramside Hall and Cocken Lodge . The Shack is an indoor virtual course by the A1(M) junction.
• Durham University : If you or a family member might want to study at Durham, best way to find out more are the Open Days, with a chance to interview staff and current or recent students. Next best are the Discover Durham campus walking tours in October and November. And for a taster, take the virtual campus tour.
• Cricket at Riverside Stadium in Chester-le-Street, 8 miles north: this is home to Durham CCC, who were promoted in 2023 and now play in Division One of the County Championship. County matches normally last 3-4 days. The stadium also hosts international or "Test Matches", lasting up to five days. The stadium is 200 yards from the railway station, frequent trains take less than ten minutes from Durham or Newcastle.
• Football : Durham doesn't have a professional men's soccer team, but Durham WFC plays in the Women's Championship, their second tier. Their home ground is Maiden Castle (capacity 3000) on the University campus.
• Great North Big Band Jazz Festival is in Chester-le-Street, with the next on 1-3 March 2024.
• Durham Miners' Gala is on the second Saturday in July, with parades and similar demonstrations of solidarity.
• Durham Fringe Festival is next held on 24-28 July 2024.
• Durham Pride is in September.
• Indoor Market off Market Square is a trad Victorian hall with lots of stalls, open M-Sa 9AM-4:30PM. On Saturdays it extends outdoors across the square.
• Near the market are convenience stores such as Tesco Express. Big stores such as Aldi are on the retail park east edge of town by A1(M).
• Gateshead Metro Centre is where locals do their "big shop". It's on A1 west of Newcastle, or change trains at Newcastle for Metrocentre, or take the hourly direct bus X22.

• Bishop's Mill , Walkergate DH1 1WA , ☏ +44 191 370 8510 . Su-Th 8AM-midnight, F Sa 8AM-2AM . Central JD Wetherspoon with good food and ale. ( updated Jan 2024 )
• Vennels , 71 Saddler St DH1 3NP ( by Market Square ), ☏ +44 191 375 9635 . Daily 9AM-5PM . Pleasant cafe for light bites in a vennel or alleyway. ( updated Jan 2024 )
• Café Cenno is upstairs in the Market Hall, with a vista of the railway viaduct and river on one side, and the market stalls on the other. It's open M-Sa 9AM-4:30PM.
• Pancake Cafe is at 11 Crossgate, at the junction with Neville Street.
• Undercroft Cafe is within the cathedral, open daily 10AM-4PM for light bites and lunch.
• Bell's serve fish & chips in the market place, eat in or takeaway, open M-Sa 11:15AM-8:30PM, Su noon-3:30PM.
• Stantons is a long-established fish and chips takeaway at 29 Neville St near the bus station, open M-Sa 10:30AM-3AM, Su 11:30AM-midnight.
• La Spaghettata is part of Fabio's, see Drink.
• 54.7787 -1.5703 1 Claypath Delicatessen , 57 Claypath DH1 1QS , ☏ +44 191 340 7209 . Tu W 11AM-4PM, Th-Sa 11AM-9PM . Quality bakery and coffee shop with inside and outside seating. Everything homemade, a bit pricey. ( updated Jan 2024 )
• 54.7742 -1.57 2 Zen , Court Lane DH1 3JS ( off New Elvet ), ☏ +44 191 384 9588 . Daily 11AM-10PM . A popular Thai restaurant. ( updated Jan 2024 )

• Fabio's , 66 Saddler St DH1 3NP ( 50 yards south of Market Square ), ☏ +44 191 383 9290 . Daily 6PM-2AM . Lively place near the castle, with food, music and dancing. ( updated Jan 2024 )
• Swan and Three Cygnets , Elvet Bridge DH1 3AF , ☏ +44 191 384 0242 . M-Sa 11AM-11PM, Su noon-10:30PM . Pleasant riverside pub by Old Elvet Bridge. They only sell Sam Smith's range of ales, and prohibit using phones. Some outside tables though the river view here is just of Prince Bishops Shopping Centre. ( updated Jan 2024 )
• 54.7786 -1.5669 2 The Woodman , 23 Gilesgate DH1 1QW , ☏ +44 191 697 5369 . Su-Th noon-11PM, F Sa noon-midnight . Friendly (and dog- and family-friendly) pub with beer garden and selection of independent local ales. ( updated Jan 2024 )
• 54.7721 -1.5705 3 Victoria Inn , 86 Hallgarth St DH1 3AS , ☏ +44 191 386 5269 . Splendid traditional pub with Victorian interior, highly rated by CAMRA. Also has rooms. Double (room only) £100 . ( updated Jan 2024 )
• Loft is a late-night music venue at 15 North Rd near the bus station, open M W F 10PM-2:30AM,
• Ebony Champagne Bar is by Gala Theatre, open Tu-Su.

• Durham University has college accommodation during the summer holidays, including the castle.
• 54.7792 -1.5756 1 Premier Inn City Centre , Freeman's Place, Walkergate DH1 1SW , ☏ +44 333 777 4669 . Smart comfy central budget hotel. B&B double £100 . ( updated Jan 2024 )
• Premier Inn Durham North is two miles north of town centre on A167, convenient for motorists.
• 54.7732 -1.5899 2 Farnley Tower Hotel , The Avenue DH1 4DX , ☏ +44 191 375 0011 . Welcoming 13-bedroom hotel in converted Victorian mansion. Tall guests should avoid the attic room. Dog-friendly. B&B double £120 . ( updated Jan 2024 )
• 54.7793 -1.5625 3 Travelodge , Station Lane, Gilesgate DH1 1LJ , ☏ +44 8719 846136 (premium rate) . Durham used to have four railway stations: this one was Durham Gilesgate, whence the last passenger train departed in 1857. The former station house is now the Travelodge, a reliable budget chain. B&B double £110 . ( updated Jan 2024 )
• 54.7783 -1.5838 4 Bridge Hotel , 40 North Road DH1 4SE , ☏ +44 191 386 8090 . Friendly pub and restaurant with rooms beneath the railway viaduct. B&B double £110 . ( updated Jan 2024 )
• Forty Winks , 40 South St DH1 4QP , ☏ +44 191 380 3000 . Beautiful Edwardian guesthouse facing cathedral across the river. Amazing decor, gets rave reviews. No children under 16 or dogs. B&B double £140 . ( updated Jan 2024 )
• Radisson Blu , Framwellgate Waterside DH1 5TA ( West bank of river, north of bridge ), ☏ +44 191 372 7200 , [email protected] . Smart reliable 4-star chain with 207 rooms just blow the railway station. The hotel has an Italian restaurant, two bars and a health club. B&B double £120 . ( updated Jan 2024 )
• 54.7756 -1.5714 5 Durham Royal County , Old Elvet DH1 3JN , ☏ +44 191 386 6821 . 4-star hotel in Marriott chain, part dates back to the 17th century, modern amenities plus historic charm in a great location. Comfy and spacious. B&B double £100 . ( updated Jan 2024 )
• 54.7949 -1.5153 6 Ramside Hall Hotel , Carrville DH1 1TD ( off A690 ), ☏ +44 191 386 5282 . Spa and golf hotel near the A1(M) junction. B&B double £100 . ( updated Jan 2024 )
• 54.8102 -1.7106 7 Burnhopeside Hall , Durham Rd, Lanchester DH7 0TL ( 7 miles west of city on A691 ), ☏ +44 1207 520222 . Relaxing comfy place in Georgian mansion. Basically B&B but can do dinner by arrangement. Dog-friendly. B&B double £140 . ( updated Jan 2024 )

As of Jan 2024, Durham and its approach roads have 4G from Vodafone, and 5G from EE, O2 and Three.

• Beamish is the North of England Open Air Museum, five miles west of Chester-le-Street. It has reconstructed buildings from around the northeast, and is big enough to run its own tram network.
• Angel of the North towers over the road and railway north to Gateshead .
• Newcastle upon Tyne is the throbbing heart of the North East, with excellent shopping, clubbing and art, and some surprisingly fine architecture.
• Locomotion is a branch of the National Railway Museum in Shildon, near Bishop Auckland , 20 miles south of Durham. The collection is mostly Victorian steam era.
• Barnard Castle is a pretty market town with a ruined castle overlooking the river Tees. It's on A688 25 miles southwest of Durham. The stand-out attraction is the Bowes Museum, in a vast French-style mansion.

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What To Do In Durham: 21 Local Favourites & Hidden Gems 🇬🇧

LOOKING FOR BRILLIANT IDEAS FOR WHAT TO DO IN DURHAM? WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED!

Beautiful, historic Durham in the north of England captivates visitors with its winding river, characterful streets, and its UNESCO World Heritage Cathedral and Castle. This buzzing university city in the Northeast of England also has memorable Harry Potter film locations to discover amongst all the historical sites.

As a total history nerd, I love my trips to Durham to poke around all the attractions, wander the atmospheric streets and browse for bargains in the markets. It’s a magical city!

Keep reading this guide for everything you need to know about what to do in Durham, where to eat and stay in the main areas, and some of the great things to do in the wider local area to complete your visit. You’ll also discover fun things to see and do in Durham for free.

PS Make sure your camera is fully charged – you’ll soon discover Durham is ridiculously pretty!

Ready to get started? Let’s dive into all that Durham has to offer ⤵️

🏆 BEST OVERALL TOUR OF DURHAM

Don’t have time to read the whole article? The hands-down best Tour of Durham is  this one that includes a tour of the Cathedral and Castle  in Durham, with hotel pick up.

Grey Globetrotters Travel Blog contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. See my  disclaimer  for more information.

What to Do in Durham: 19 Best Things to Do in Durham

Durham’s steep and winding medieval streets beg to be explored if you love history. The entire peninsular area encompassing the towering cathedral and the castle is so unique that it’s been recognised as a  UNESCO World Heritage  site since 1986, thanks to its incredible historic structures.

1. Explore Durham Cathedral

Dating back more than 900 years, Durham Cathedral is steeped in history and inextricably linked to the introduction of Christianity to the north of England.

Durham Cathedral is England’s best example of Norman church architecture and the city’s #1 tourist attraction – perfect for history buffs and family days out .

Highlights of Durham Cathedral

• The 7th century Lindisfarne Gospels – handwritten on vellum
• Incredible stained glass windows , including the contemporary Illumination Window
• The awe-inspiring Chapel of the Nine Altars .
• The shrine of the  Venerable Bede , one of the greatest Anglo-Saxon scholars, which has been in the Cathedral’s  Galilee Chapel since the 14th century. 
• The Durham Cathedral Museum with the awe-inspiring Monks Dormitory , the Great Kitchen , and the Pilgrim’s Gallery
• The spooky Undercroft and Crypt
• Harry Potter film locations (see below ⤵️)

The Best Ways To Explore Durham Cathedral

• J oin a cathedral tour with an expert guide.
• Climb the 325 steps in Durham Cathedral Tower for the ultimate rooftop view of Durham (if you’re fit enough!)

Top Tip: Harry Potter fans love discovering the Cloister and Cloister Garth . Both feature in the movies Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone and Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets !

Top Tips For Visiting Durham Cathedral:

• The Cathedral is popular – aim to be there before 11 am when the biggest crowds arrive
• Prebook your tower tour – they sell out very quickly.
• While visiting the cathedral is free, it relies on donations to fund running costs and ongoing conservation efforts. Please be generous if you can. 

2. Call into Durham Castle

Durham Castle dates back to 1072 and this original building was once the home of the Prince Bishops of Durham. Since 1837, it’s been occupied by University College, Durham . Can you imagine a more incredible place to live and learn as a student?

You get a good view of the castle from the outside, but the best way to understand its size and explore properly is to book a 45-minute guided tour.

Public tours are guided by enthusiastic and well-informed university students and cost £5 per adult (concessions are available). Book your castle tour here .

From the moment you walk along the cobbled Barbican, and through the Gatehouse into the Courtyard, you’ll be impressed by the 1,000 years of architecture.

The beautiful Norman Chapel, with its lovely sandstone pillars, is the oldest building in Durham, while the Tudor Tunstall Chapel is where you can discover delicate carvings of pipe-playing pigs!

Don’t Miss: The amazing carved archway , fabulous 13th-century Great Hall , or the famous wonky Black Staircase !

3. Browse Durham Market

With medieval origins, Durham Market Place is at the heart of the city. The thriving indoor market has over 40 independent traders. Outside the market, you’ll see an imposing statue of Neptune , the mythical Roman god of the sea, and one of the Marquis of Londonderry astride his horse.

There’s an impressive Victorian Town Hall and Guildhall where you can discover the history of Durham, which received its first Royal Charter in 1179.

At the eastern end of the marketplace, you’ll find St Nicholas Church (known locally as St Nics). This pretty Victorian building replaced the original 12th-century church that was in disrepair.

Fun fact : The marketplace was actually built over part of the former church’s cemetery!

4. Follow the Durham Peninsular Walk

Durham’s location on a bend in the River Wear lends itself perfectly to a self-guided tour around the city’s main attractions. The Durham Peninsular Walk will take you around the city, along the riverside and takes a couple of hours at a gentle pace.

If you’re looking to stretch your budget, this enchanting walk, where you can admire all the different species of trees growing by the river, is one of the best  cheap things to do in Durham .

5. Admire “The Journey” sculpture

This imposing 1.8 metre-high sculpture by English sculptor Fenwick Lawson was unveiled in Durham’s Millennium Square in September 2008 by Princess Anne.

The sculpture depicts the arduous journey taken by the six monks who carried the body of St Cuthbert to Durham from Lindisfarne in the 9th century.

6. Wonder at The Storyteller’s Chair

The Storyteller’s Chair or Stone Gargoyle Chair is a curious-looking stone sculpture along the banks of the River Wear, between Prebends Bridge and the Old Fulling Mill.

Created by the artist Colin Wilbourn, who called it “Kathedra”, the chair is where many local teachers sit when teaching children about the river and the history and wildlife of the city.

7. Cross Ancient Stone Bridges

The ancient bridges in Durham are stunning, and you’ll definitely want to include them in your Durham itinerary!

The oldest of the arched medieval stone bridges is Framwellgate Bridge , which was originally built in 1127!

Top Tip: Pause for a brew in one of the alfresco coffee shops and take in the gorgeous views of the River Wear, Durham Castle and Durham Cathedral.

Prebends Bridge and Elvet Bridge are equally attractive and unique!

8. Step Back in Time Along Historic Durham Streets

Wandering through Durham’s streets, away from the main tourist attractions, is one of the best things to do in Durham! The quaint higgledy-piggeldy architecture and steep cobbled streets are a photographer’s delight.

These ancient thoroughfares, including The North and South Bailey and Dun Cow Lane, have centuries of history to discover and fascinating stories to tell. I loved this part of the city!

9. Visit The Church of St Mary the Less

You’ll notice a pretty Anglican church set back from the street as you stroll along the South Bailey. This 12th-century church was originally a garrison chapel for the soldiers stationed on Durham’s city walls.

Today, the church is the peaceful chapel for St John’s College.

Look out for the 13th-century sculpture of Jesus Christ and the quaint memorial to Joseph Boruwlaski (1739-1837). This Polish dwarf, known as the “Little Count”, entertained European courts and lived near to the church.

👑 Royal Connection: King Charles III is connected to the church through his seven-time great-grandmother (!) Dame Elizabeth Bowes who is buried in a vault in the chapel alongside her daughters, Elizabeth and Jane.

10. Learn About The Old Fulling Mill

The Old Fulling Mill in Durham was one of many used to process woollen cloth in England. These mills cleaned and thickened raw wool by pounding it with wooden hammers or “fulling stocks”. The labour-intensive work took hours, with water added to help soften and remove impurities from the wool.

This mill was built in the early 18th century and was a bustling hub of activity, with workers busy loading raw wool onto carts outside the building while others tended to the machines and monitored the fulling process. The sound of pounding hammers would have echoed all around!

Technological advances in the mid-19th century made traditional fulling mills obsolete, and many fell into disrepair or were repurposed for other uses. Thanks to its location, this particular historic mill has survived intact, although exploring inside the mill is no longer possible.

11. Relax at Durham Botanical Gardens

The splendid Durham University Botanical Gardens cover a 10-hectare woodland site about 30 minutes from Durham City Centre.

The alpine garden, winter garden, bamboo grove, and glasshouses provide plenty to discover, and the newly developed woodland garden and wildflower meadow are lovely serene places to wander, with many native plants to enjoy.

Top Tip: The visitor centre has a coffee shop, and the gift shop is crammed with unique and interesting gifts you won’t find anywhere else in the city. It’s a great spot to pick up souvenirs 🙂

➡️ Here’s a handy map of the beautiful Durham Botanical Gardens to help you plan your visit.

12. Durham Museum

Hidden behind the mighty cathedral, the Durham Museum and Heritage Centre is located in the redundant church of St Mary-le-Bow. But don’t let its tucked-away location fool you into not visiting!

This museum of Durham history takes you on a fascinating journey through the rich history of Durham from medieval times to the present day.

Highlights of the Durham Museum

• A reconstructed of a Victorian prison cell
• The model of the market in medieval times
• The beautiful “Rose of Raby” – a stunning early 19th-century stained glass window originally from Brancepath Castle.

13. Visit Crook Hall Gardens

I loved pottering around these delightful National Trust gardens and how the gardens are themed as different “rooms”. Everywhere you turn, it feels like there’s a new gate to be opened and explored.

14. Enjoy Afternoon Tea in Durham

You simply cannot visit Durham without indulging in one of the most quintessentially English traditions – afternoon tea! Luckily, Durham has many places where you can stop for a “brew and a bun”, and you’ll find the prices incredibly reasonable.

Two of the best places for afternoon tea in Durham are:

The Undercroft Restaurant

Head here for bucketloads of atmosphere, as the restaurant is located in the cathedral’s undercroft! You can get homemade snacks and light lunches, and I can vouch for the very good cakes!

Vennels Cafe

If you’re looking for beams, crooked ceilings and original fireplaces, complemented by quirky old sewing machine tables, and plenty of pretty pictures and plants, head into Vennels for their internationally renowned home bakes scones.

The Garden Gate Café at Crook Hall Gardens is superb too. You don’t need to pay to visit the gardens if you’re only visiting the cafe 🙂

15. Go on a Food Tour

Food tours are my absolute go-to for the perfect way to discover a different side to a new city!

This 5-star rated food tour of Durham starts with a leisurely walk along cobbled streets and the riverside. You’ll sample tasty fares from independent traders in the Durham market before trying an eclectic mix of dining styles and working your way through courses.

16. Follow The Northern Saints Trail

The Northern Saints Trails are walking routes based on ancient pilgrimage routes, positioning the North East of England as the “Christian Crossroads of the British Isles”.

There are six pilgrimage routes , each reflecting the journeys of the saints, their connections with the North East, and recognising the significance of  Durham Cathedral  as a destination for pilgrims for centuries.

There are routes for all ages and abilities, whether you want a walking challenge, to get back to nature, discover stunning landscapes, uncover fascinating history, enjoy family time in the great outdoors or focus on your wellbeing.

17. Check Out Durham University’s Museums

The Oriental Museum

Previously known as the Gulbenkian Museum of Oriental Art and Archaeology, the oriental Museum is devoted entirely to the art and archaeology of the great Northern African and Asian cultures.

The collection includes more than 23,500 artefacts from China, Egypt, India, Korea, Japan and other Asian and North African countries.

Top Tip: This glorious little museum is never busy and worth visiting!

The Museum of Archaeology

Located within the Palace Green Library in Durham, the Museum of Archaeology has a splendid collection of archaeological material excavated within the city, which helps to tell the story of Durham through the ages.

18. Row Along The River Wear

One of the most romantic things to do in Durham is to rent one of the traditional little wooden rowing boats and wend your way along the beautiful tree-lined River Wear.

Hire your rowing boat from Brown’s Boats , who have been in business in Durham since 1900!

Special Events in Durham

Durham isn’t all about history! There are plenty of live entertainment events too in this strong community.

19. Sample Craft Beers at the Durham Beer Festival

Craft breweries. Craft beer. The perfect place. What more could you ask for? Durham’s Beer Festival is one of the best community events in the city!

20. Enjoy The Spectacle of The Durham Regatta

Durham Regatta has been a firm fixture in the calendar for sports fans since 1834. In fact, it’s the UK’s 2nd second oldest regatta and five years older than the better-known Henley Royal Regatta.

The first regatta commemorated the victory of the Duke of Wellington at Waterloo!

Today, the Durham Regatta attracts almost two thousand competitors, most of whom race on the short course from Pelaw Wood to just past Bath’s Bridge. The thrilling longer 1800m course from Pelaw Wood runs through the historic arches of Elvet Bridge down to the finish near Prebends Bridge.

Around ten thousand spectators enjoy the rowing, plus other activities along the riverbank, including a classic car rally and live music. There’s live entertainment and tasty local food and drink too.

21. Get Festive at Durham Christmas Festival

What could be better than doing your Christmas shopping in an atmospheric old city that feels like something from a Dickens novel, especially when all the Christmas lights are twinkling? Durham Christmas Festival is not the biggest Christmas Market in the UK , but it’s one of my absolute favourites.

Where to Stay in Durham

Located just outside Durham, 14th-century Lumley Castle provides a unique experience with exceptional service and is close to the best things to do in Durham.

Pick cosy rooms in the castle or quieter rooms in the castle mews with a contemporary, modern twist. All are beautifully decorated, with unique touches and all the facilities you would expect.

Lumley Castle’s excellent restaurant serves a hearty breakfast and superb evening meals.

Where to Eat in Durham

Here are some of the best places to eat in Durham – all within a stone’s throw of Durham Cathedral:

• Cafedral:  An uber-pretty little family-run café with the best honeycomb mocha I’ve ever tasted. It’s dog-friendly and seriously good value for money too! Nip into 1 Owengate and try their signature marmalade cake – we loved it!
• Flat White Kitchen:  This 17th-century townhouse in the centre of Durham has been sympathetically renovated into a fabulous eatery. Drop in for the excellent coffee, and stay for the cakes! Find it at 40 Saddler Street.
• Cellar Door:  Tucked away down narrow steps in a quirky 13th-century building, you’ll find great river views and fine dining with dishes made from local ingredients. The Jerusalem artichoke risotto with black truffle is ridiculously tasty, and Sunday lunch here is incredible! Find Cellar Door at Saddler Street on the way up to the cathedral.
• Go Waffle : Love decadent ice cream? Head to 33 Saddler Street for delicious bubble waffles and sweet bubble tea 🙂

Where is Durham?

Located in the North East of England and close to two beautiful British National Parks (the North York Moors and the Yorkshire Dales ), Durham is also on the doorstep of the incredible North Yorkshire Coast , moments away from the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty , and only three hours from London by train .

How to Get to Durham

If you’re visiting the UK from the United States or anywhere else outside the UK, you’ll likely fly into one of London’s International Airports or Manchester International Airport.

From London

The journey from London Heathrow Airport to Durham is 270 miles, and will take around 4 hours and 30 minutes. The easiest route is via the M25, M1 and A1(M) motorways. It’s a great road trip if you enjoy UK motorways!

➡️ Planning to rent a car in the UK? Find the best deals at Rentalcars.com  where you can compare prices from all the top brands in one place.

Trains from Heathrow Airport to Durham take around 4 hours. You will need to change trains at least twice, so it’s a good idea to travel without cumbersome luggage! The fastest route is by Heathrow Express to Paddington Station, London Underground to Kings Cross Station, and then the LNER train to Durham.

➡️ It’s usually cheaper to purchase train tickets in advance. Check price and availability here .

From Manchester

The journey from Manchester Heathrow Airport to Durham is 150 miles and should take around 2 hours and 40 minutes. The easiest route is via the M62 motorway to Leeds, then the A1(M) motorway onward to Durham.

Trains from Manchester Airport to Durham take from 3 hours; however, you should only need to change trains once – in York.

Best Day Trips From Durham UK

Durham is a great base for visiting the stunning North of England. Here are just a few ideas for places to visit near Durham:

Just 15 minutes from Durham on the train, Newcastle is a great place for a day trip or a longer city break. Newcastle is well-known for its love of football and exuberant nightlife, but there’s much more to discover.

York is compact and easy to explore, making it perfect for a short break . If you arrive in York by train , start with a walk along the York City Walls, which date back to R oman times , and are some of the best-preserved city walls in the UK .

The North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB)

To escape the city and get some fresh air in a wild and beautiful place, the North Pennines AONB is where to go.

A UNESCO Global Geopark since 1988, the North Pennines AONB is Britain’s second-largest AONB at 2,000 square kilometres, with miles of nature trails, walking routes and places to enjoy if you’re an outdoor sports enthusiast.

There are so many amazing places to visit outside Durham I wrote a whole post about it! Check out these 21 best day trips from Durham .

Durham FAQs

I’m hoping you have a better idea of what to do in Durham and can see what an incredible city it is! In case you need some more persuasion information, here are some of the questions that people often ask about Durham and its top attractions:

What is Durham famous for?

Durham is most famous for its incredible cathedral, Durham Castle and its world-renowned University.

Is Durham UK, safe to visit?

While County Durham is one of the poorest places in England, the City of Durham is relatively affluent – largely thanks to the influx of university students every year. Durham is a really nice place to visit.

Can you walk around Lumley Castle?

Yes. There are miles of trails in the area. One easy 7-mile circular walk will take you past Lumley Castle on the way from Chester-le-Street to Great Lumley. It’s a great way to see the castle without staying there 🙂

What is the prettiest street in Durham?

Saddler Street – complete with its own haunted pub (The Shakespeare) – is often regarded as the most attractive street in Durham.

Is Durham walkable?

Absolutely! Walking is the best way to get around Durham – although you will need walking shoes for all the cobbles and hills.

What is the oldest street in Durham?

Several ancient streets in Durham vie for the title of the oldest street in the city, from Dun Cow Lane, to Silver Street, Allergate and Cross Gate. Most date back to medieval times.

What is there to do in Durham for the day?

In addition to the well-known attractions in Durham, including Durham Cathedral, Durham Castle and the riverside, there are plenty more things to discover in this ancient city and fabulous places to eat and stay.

What is the oldest pub in Durham?

The atmospheric Dun Cow at 37 Old Elvet is the oldest pub in Durham.

What is the old name for Durham?

Durham is so ancient it’s had several names! The original Nordic name of Dun Holm  was changed by the Norman invaders to Duresme, while the Romans called it Dunelm.

Which day is market day in Durham?

Durham’s market day is each Saturday.

What days in Durham Indoor market open?

The indoor market in Durham is open from Monday to Saturday each week.

What food is Durham famous for?

Floddies were a traditional breakfast dish around Durham when shipyard workers and miners needed quick, cheap and substantial meals after work. Made from grated potato, bacon and onion, these tasty bites were bound with flour before cooking.

Does Durham have a park-and-ride?

Yes. Durham Park and Ride operates from three locations, from Monday to Saturday (except UK Bank Holidays), including Belmont (DH1 1SR), Sniperley (DH1 5RA) and Howlands (DH1 3TQ). Frequent buses connect th parking to the city centre.;

Is Durham Cathedral free to visit?

Yes. Unlike many other major cathedrals around the world, it’s free to visit Durham Cathedral.

Do you have to pay for Durham Castle?

Yes, there is an entrance fee payable to visit Durham Castle. Tickets are available from the Palace Library.

What is the population of Durham in the UK?

The Durham UK population is 23,175 (as at 2021 census)

Where does Durham University rank in the UK?

Durham is a prestigious university, ranked 92nd in the QS World rankings. It’s one of the UK’s elite “Russell Group” universities. Durham University ranking in the UK is 6th – according to the Complete University Guide 2023.

Where is Durham in relation to London?

Durham is in northeast England, around 270 miles north of London (depending on which part of London you’re in).

Is Durham in Newcastle?

No. Durham and Newcastle are two separate cities in England’s northeast, around 20 miles apart.

What is the best time of year to visit Durham?

As Durham is in the northeast of England, it gets pretty chilly in the winter!! The best and warmest time to visit is from late April until mid October, although the city is wonderful for Christmas.

🏆Best Durham Tours: Quick Guide

• Best overall tour of Durham
• Best Food Tour in Durham
• Best Tour of Durham + Auckland Castle

RELATED ARTICLE 🇬🇧 21 Best Day Trips from Durham

Final Thoughts: What To Do In Durham UK

In conclusion, Durham is a historic city full of diverse experiences waiting to be explored and unique things to do. This English gem has something for everyone, from cultural landmarks and ancient sites to outdoor activities and delicious food options.

Whether you’re a solo traveller looking for adventure or planning a family vacation, Durham has it all. So why not plan your next trip to this charming destination and discover the many hidden treasures that make Durham truly one-of-a-kind?

Hope you have an amazing time!

Travelling to England?

Here’s a quick list of what to pack!

✔️ Refillable Water Bottle : UK tap water is safe to drink, so you can always have water on the go and avoid buying plastic bottles 🙂

✔️ Worldwide Travel Adaptor : because the mains voltage in the UK is 230V. I love this one as you can charge up to five devices simultaneously, and it has an automatic cut-off if you overload it!

✔️ Travel Umbrella : It rains a lot in England!

Looking for more information on England?

If you’re planning a trip to England and looking for more information, you might find these other posts helpful:

• Is London Worth Visiting ?
• Best Places To Visit Outside London : 22 Day Trips From London You’ll Love In 2023
• England in the Summer (2023) : 25 Best Things to Do
• Is UK Tap Water Safe to Drink? (2023 Update)
• 12 Amazing Walled Cities In England , Wales & Northern Ireland To Explore
• 27 Fun Facts About England : Weird, Shocking & Just Plain Odd!
• The Ultimate Yorkshire Travel Guide
• The Best London to York Day Trip in 2023

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it for later and share it with your friends! If you’re on Pinterest, you can click the image below to save it 🙂

Coralie Thornton, the owner and author of Grey Globetrotters, has been a traveller for more than four decades. Her passion for adventure has led her through over 40 countries, seeking cultural experiences, delicious foods, and hidden gems. Today, she helps others experience the UK, Europe, Egypt and China, with meticulously crafted travel itineraries and affordable luxury travel guides.

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The Durham Pocket Guide is the official guide to the county. We are expecting a huge demand for information on days out, overnight stays and short breaks from visitors as well as residents, eager for new experiences.

The Pocket Guide is the ‘must-read’ publication for the area and features information on what to see, where to go, things to do and places to stay, eat and drink. Available from spring 2024, over 100,000 copies will be available from hundreds of outlets across Durham, North Yorkshire, Cumbria, Newcastle, Northumberland and key entry points such as motorway services and train stations. The guide is also mailed out to visitors upon request and available to download from thisisdurham.com, the official tourism website for the county.

• 95% of respondents stated that the Pocket Guide influenced them to visit attractions that they had not planned to as a result of using the guide*
• 94% of respondents stated that the Pocket Guide influenced them to visit areas of the county they had not planned to as a result of using the guide*
• 96% of respondents rated the guide as good or very good* Source: Durham Pocket Guide Evaluation 2017

To register your interest in the 2025 Durham Pocket Guide, contact:

Lisa Anderson Tel: 07734 560565, Email:  [email protected]

If you would like further details concerning the Visit County Durham Partnership scheme please email  [email protected]  or call 03000 261 220

The Durham Pocket Guide is brought to you by Visit County Durham, via our publishing partner, Offstone Publishing.

View the 2024 Durham Pocket Guide

Home » Travel Guides » United States » North Carolina (NC) » 15 Best Things to Do in Durham (NC)

15 Best Things to Do in Durham (NC)

It’s estimated that over nine million people visit Durham, North Carolina each year.  It’s earned national accolades as one of the best places to work, live, and play, so it’s no wonder that tourists want to see it for themselves.

Whether you go for the lively night life, award winning performing arts, action-packed sports, fantastic outdoor adventure, eco-agriculture, tons of shopping, or historical and educational sight-seeing, Durham delivers.

The city is bursting at the seams with unique and fun things to do. And while you’re there, don’t forget Chapel Hill – just ten miles from Durham, it’s another unique (and rival) town with tons to offer.

Let’s explore the best things to do in Durham :

1. Duke University

Originally Trinity College until 1924, Duke University is one of the United States top colleges.  Endowed by the cigarette fortune of the Duke family, the university is known for rigorous academic programs and top ranked sports.

The main campus is Georgian style and the west campus has neo-Gothic architecture – both of which are stunning to walk through.

Do a self-guided tour or jump on an admissions tour to learn the history and legacy of this impressive institution.

2. Duke University Lemur Center

Everyone’s favourite stop in Durham is the Lemur Center.  Just two miles from main campus, this is the largest collection of the endangered primates outside of Madagascar, their native country.

The centre is focused on research, scholarship, and conservation and they run guided tours on most days that are often booked well in advance.

Their mission is to promote a deep appreciation of our planet’s amazing biodiversity and the inherent power behind new scientific discoveries. It’s almost impossible not to fall in love with these wide-eyed fuzzy creatures.

3. Stagville

Historic Stagville was once one of the largest plantations in the pre-American Civil War South.  With 30,000 acres and 900 slaves, it is the site of an important piece of history.

You’ll be able to explore 18th and 19th century homes, the old slave quarters, and a one-of-a-kind barn.

In addition to tours, Stagville also has regular educational and cultural events on site – like lectures on the personal lives, struggles, and celebrations of the enslaved.

Stagville is dedicated to studying and preserving African-American culture.

4. Bennett Place

In April 1865, at Bennett Place, the largest troop surrender of Confederate soldiers occurred, effectively ending the American Civil War.

Confederate general Joseph E. Johnson met there with his rival, General William T. Sherman and surrendered all the southern armies in Georgia, Florida, and the Carolinas.

Today you can explore the museum gallery and historic structures, watch special re-enactments, and visit a theatre which shows a short film called ‘Dawn of Peace.’

You can also visit the Everett-Thissen Research Library which has over 1,000 books on the Civil War era.

5. Nasher Museum of Art

Part of the Duke University system, The Nasher is home to an incredible collection of international and contemporary pieces.

The building itself is a futuristic cube that complements the more than 10,000 works of art inside.

The four permanent collections include pre-Columbian Art of the Americas, Medieval Art, Classical Antiquities, and modern contemporary with a concentration on the African diaspora.

This is one of the best university collections in the country.

6. West Point on the Eno River

This park along the Eno River covers over 400 acres and has three historic buildings.  It’s the perfect combination of history and natural scenery.

There are five miles of nature trails that follow the river and some surrounding bluffs.  There’s also an amphitheatre, fishing areas, rapids that are great for paddling, and picnic facilities.

The highlight of the park is West Point Mill.  Once one of 32 mills along the river, it has been rebuilt on the site of what was the largest mill.  At its height, it was the centre and heartbeat of a 300 family community. It’s a working mill once again and you can buy products there at the shop.

Take a tour of the restored mill owners home as well as the old tobacco pack house – which is now home to the Hugh Mangum Museum of Photography.

7. Agra-tourism

Southern Living recently named Durham the ‘Tastiest Town in the South.’ A distinction that is well deserved as all the local foodies will tell you.  Surrounding this nationally celebrated food scene, Agra tourism has developed so that visitors can get a peek behind the scenes.

There are a number of local farms you can visit and a number of tour packages you can buy to visit several all in one day.

Blue Whistler Farm is one working farm of note, as is Funny Girl Farm with its year round farm stand.

Considered by many to be the epi-centre of North Carolina’s farm to table movement, Durham has great places to discover like Watts Grocery, Fullsteam Brewery, Durham Farmer’s Market, and the South Durham Market.

8. The Durham Bulls

Made famous by the 1988 movie Bull Durham, the nationally acclaimed Triple-A baseball team is a must see for any sports fans.  The 10,000 seat stadium itself has a 32-foot-tall wall behind left field and a towering bull on top.

To connect the modern day with the historic era, the architecture of the stadium matches the original Durham Bull’s stadium as well as the historic tobacco warehouses in the neighbourhood.

Have the ultimate American experience with a beer, a hotdog, and the Durham Bulls.

9. Brightleaf Square

Durham has done a fantastic job of renovating its historic past in order to make it a functional part of modern day city life.  The best example of this is the Brightleaf Square District. It’s anchored by two renovated tobacco warehouses which have been turned into fabulous restaurants, shops, and bars.

Over the years the area has branched out along Main Street as the popularity and reputation of Brightleaf has grown.

The warehouses were built in the early 20th century in order to store and age tobacco being grown in the area. It’s now a part of the National Register of Historic Places and some of the best that Durham has to offer can be found here.

10. Eno River State Park

Just ten miles from downtown, the Eno River State Park provides the perfect balance of nature to downtowns busy bustle.

The river flows for 33 miles through the city and ends in Falls Lake.  Along the way it passes lovely bluffs, a historic mill, and pine forest and with five access points into the park, it’s an easy escape.

Enjoy fishing, canoeing, kayaking, hiking, and overnight camping. With over 30 miles of trails this is the place locals come to unwind and sink into what’s beautiful about Durham.

11. The American Tobacco Trail

The American Tobacco Trail is a Rails-to-Trails project that runs for almost 23 miles through the Research Triangle in Eastern North Carolina.

Built out of the abandoned railroad tracks that were originally built for the American Tobacco Company in the 1970’s.

You can bike, hike, walk, horseback ride, and run and it’s incredibly popular with locals.  The trail begins in the south near New Hill and ends near the Durham Bulls Athletic Park.

12. Duke University Chapel

Located on the university’s West Campus, Duke University Chapel is a truly magnificent piece of history and architecture.  Built in the 1930’s, this neo-Gothic building has a striking 210-foot tower with 77 colourful, glass windows depicting various scenes from the bible.

It also has pointed arches, stone piers, flying buttresses, and ribbed vaults.  History has it that during the two years of construction, students routinely gathered at the stone mason’s huts to watch as the chapel was being built.

It now has an interdenominational congregation known for its inspiring music and worship.

13. Falls Lake State Recreation Area

Falls Lake is a 12,000-acre reservoir with more than 300 campsites, five swimming beaches, boat ramps, and great paddling.

Near the Beaverdam access point there are wonderful mountain bike trails.

There are also extensive hiking trails, including the Mountains-to-Sea State Trail that winds through the area and is considered its centrepiece.

14. Local Eats

Durham’s reputation is that of a ‘foodie’ city.  This is a town full of one-of-a-kind dining experiences.  Everything from soul food, southern cooking, and international cuisine can be found on the best of the best lists. Fresh, local, and family owned are the buzz words.

Each year each of Durham’s media outlets host voter polls to determine the new must visit restaurants.  Some recent non-chain winners include Guglhupf Bakery, Bull City Burger and Brewery, Foster’s Market, Mateo Bar de Tapas and Vin Rouge, and Elmo’s Diner.

If you’re interested in local breweries check out Sam’s Bottle Shop and the best late night meal is said to be at the Parts & Labor Motorco.

15. The Golden Belt

If you’re looking for what’s innovative in Durham, you don’t have to look further than The Golden Belt.  A refurbished and repurposed textile mill that originally made the pouches for Bull Durham tobacco, it is now a LEED Gold certified complex that is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

The Golden Belt has galleries, artist studios, event spaces, apartment homes, offices, live music, dance and theatre performances, restaurants, and much more.

The space is also interactive.  Guests are able to tour the artist studios, speak with the artists themselves and fully explore this exciting hub of creativity.

Yoga classes are available, as well as a salon, and a tattoo shop. Every third Friday of the month all 30 studios are open at the same time for tours.

15 Best Things to Do in Durham (NC):

• Duke University
• Duke University Lemur Center
• Bennett Place
• Nasher Museum of Art
• West Point on the Eno River
• Agra-tourism
• The Durham Bulls
• Brightleaf Square
• Eno River State Park
• The American Tobacco Trail
• Duke University Chapel
• Falls Lake State Recreation Area
• The Golden Belt

How to spend the perfect day in Durham city centre

by Kathryn Burrington | England

As the train pulled into the station the view across the rooftops of Durham immediately caught my eye. The sun was sinking low in the sky bathing the cathedral spires, castle walls and swathes of green trees in a golden light. I longed to hop off the train to explore the historic streets but my schedule wouldn’t allow it. When I finally returned, Durham proved well worth the wait. It’s a fabulous city with plenty to do both in Durham city centre and in the surrounding countryside. I didn’t have long in the city so while there I asked several locals, as well as my fellow bloggers, about the best things to see, do, eat and drink there. Here’s our guide to spending the perfect day in the city of Durham plus someone highlights from the many wonderful things to do a little further afield.

I visited Durham as a guest of This is Durham .  All views and opinions are my own.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you click on a link in this post and go on to make a purchase, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. You can find out more about  affiliate links  here. 

Watch the sunrise from Observatory Hill

If you like an early start to your day, one of the best places to see the sunrise is Observatory Hill, southwest of the city centre. It’s about a 25-minute walk from the cathedral. Follow the path across Prebends Bridge heading west and then south onto Quarryheads Lane. At the roundabout continue south onto Potters Lane. After about 150 metres a path on the right heads up to the hilltop view from where you can look back across the city.

Walk along the riverbank

If you can’t drag yourself out of bed in time for the sunrise, a walk along the riverbank by the River Wear as it winds it way around the city centre is another fine way to start your day and build up an appetite.

Starting at the Riverview Shopping Centre just south of the A690 on the west bank the river heads south passing the Framewellgate Bridge on Silver Street, with a backdrop of Durham Castle on the other bank of the river. A little further on Durham Cathedral comes into view.

The riverbanks are lined with trees and you’ll soon feel like you’ve left the city behind. Passing Prebands Bridge, continue along the path as it winds around the southern bend in the river.

At Kingsgate footbridge, cross the river to the opposite bank (which is now the west bank thanks to the bend in the river).

At Elvet Bridge turn left (passing the Tin of Sardines Gin Bar – see later) then turn right into Saddlers Street. Stop here for breakfast (see below) or head north to the historic square, Durham Market Place. Here turn left (east) into Silver Street which will lead you back to Framewellgate Bridge.

Breakfast at Flat White Kitchen

Either (or both) of these walks is the perfect way to start the day followed by a delicious breakfast back in Durham city centre. Flat White Kitchen at 40 Saddler Street serves some of the best coffee and breakfasts in town. Frustratingly though it doesn’t open until 9 am (or 10 am on Sundays). Just next door, at number 39, you’ll find Bill’s Restaurant which has the advantage of opening an hour earlier at 8 am.

Above: Queuing in the rain for a coffee from Flat White Kitchen

Explore Durham Castle

Fellow blogger, Kat from Biker Girl Life   recommends a visit to Durham Castle and I’d have to agree with her there. In Kat’s words, here’s why.

“Durham Castle is right next door to Durham Cathedral, and the two together were awarded World Heritage Status in 1986.

The castle was commissioned by William the Conqueror and was one of the first fortified castles to be built as part of his campaign to ‘pacify the North’.

It’s built in the traditional style of Norman castles with a central tower, built on a high mound and surrounded by a walled enclosure. It remained as a centre of power for several hundred years, both to maintain control over the Scots, but later as the home of the Bishop of Durham

In 1837, the castle became part of the University of Durham and is now used as student accommodation, which is why all tours must be guided.

You book the tours at the University Library just outside the castle. Tours only take place during holiday time when the university is not ‘in session’. In summer, it’s best to book in advance as tours sell out. You’ll be enthralled by the architecture and the history (the oldest part of the castle was built in 1080). Don’t miss the Black Staircase, made out of dark oak and standing at 57 ft high. Incredibly, it used to be free-standing but is now supported by columns for safety.

Also, ask your guide (usually a current student) about the Bishop’s blessing and how he got to finally have a hot meal!” Kathryn Bird

Website: DurhamCastle Address: Durham DH1 3RW Cost: £5.00 Adults, Children 16 and under FREE Parking: There is no parking at the castle. If you’re driving or motorcycling, the nearest public car park Prince Bishops Shopping Centre Car Park, postcode DH1 3UJ.

Durham Castle and Cathedral by Kat Biker Girl Life

Lunch at The Undercroft

The Undercroft Restaurant, in the cathedral, is the perfect place to stop for a light lunch. You can sit inside under the sweeping medieval arches or outside in the cloisters. The Undercroft Restaurant is open Monday to Saturday 10 am to 4 pm, and on Sunday from 12 noon to 4 pm. Tables can be booked by calling 0191 386 3721 or by emailing [email protected] . 

Visit Durham Cathedral

When I visited the cathedral, I was lucky enough to catch the Museum of the Moon installation at the cathedral but it’s a must-visit attraction even without the spectacular giant moon suspended at its heart. Here’s Kathryn from Wandering Bird’ s take on the cathedral.

“As you walk around the city of Durham, you won’t be able to miss the incredible cathedral – it dominates the skyline in much of the city. But don’t just walk past, there are plenty of reasons to visit inside.

Durham Cathedral was built in 1093 at the request of William the Conqueror and is now on the UNESCO World Heritage list due to its historical and architectural importance.

The nave is thought to be the FIRST structural pointed arch in the world and it is the only cathedral in England to retain almost all the Norman workmanship, as well as the original layout and design of the cathedral.

Any Harry Potter fans, will be excited to learn that many of the scenes in the movies were filmed here. The cloister is where Harry let Hedwig free to fly, many of the covered walkways were used to film scenes between classes and the Chapter House is Professor McGonagall’s classroom.

Don’t miss the chance to climb up inside the tower – it may be 325 steps, but the views over the city make them all worthwhile.

There is no cost to enter the Cathedral but there is a suggested donation of £5 pp. You can also book guided tours and you need to pay to do the tower climb.” Kathryn Bird

Guided Tour: £7.50 per person £3.50 child £20 Family ticket (2 adults, 2 children) Central Tower: £5.50 adult £2.50 child Website: DurhamcCathedral.co.uk Address: Durham Cathedral, Durham, DH1 3EP Parking: There is no parking at the cathedral but you can use the ‘Park and ride ‘ from either the Belmont Car Park DH1 1SR, the Sniperly Car Park DH1 5RA or the Howlands Car Park DH1 3TQ. For a full list of Durham City Centre car parks visit Durham car parks < Public transport : A hop-on-off bus runs between the bus/train stations and the cathedral. The nearest train station is Durham Station, 0.8 miles away.

Gin at Tin of Sardines Gin Bar

After all that walking, you’ll be in need of a pick me up and my favourite bar in Durham is the Tin of Sardines. Here Tabitha from T ravel Compositions tells us more.

“Tin of Sardines Gin Bar is located on the edge of Durham’s Elvet Bridge. With under five tables and a hutch-like set-up for the bar counter, Tin of Sardines is labelled as Durham’s smallest gin bar and “probably the smallest gin bar in the world” as you’ll be packed into this quaint bar like a tin of…well…sardines!

But don’t let size fool you, This intimate bar’s shelves are stacked high with over 200 gins and 50 mixers from around the world. If you have a hard time deciding on a gin, have a knowledgeable dapper-vested “ginologist” concoct you a gin and tonic tailored to your taste preferences: dry, fruity, florally, citrusy, you name it they will accommodate it. Your cocktail can come in a variety of colours, garnished with fresh homegrown herbs and botanicals.

Day drinking is acceptable here as they open early afternoons, and the earlier the better as far as crowds go.” Tabitha

Website: TinOfSardines.co.uk Where to find Tin of Sardines: 18 Elvet Bridge, Durham DH1 3AA, United Kingdom

Dinner through the Cellar Door

There’s a host of restaurants to choose from along Elvet Bridge and adjacent Saddlers Street. One of my favourites though is hidden behind an inconspicuous door on Sadler Street. Make your way down a narrow flight of stairs and discover what lies beyond the Cellar Door. Offering international cuisine made from seasonal, locally sourced produce this wonderful high-end restaurant in a thirteenth-century cellar. with stunning views of the river Wear and Elvet Bridge.

Website: The Cellar Door Address: 41 Saddler Street, Durham, County Durham DH1 3NU (a 2 minute walk away from Prince bishops car park .) Telephone: 0191 383 1856

Above: Riverside walk in Durham city centre at night

Things to do near Durham

Of course, if you are staying in Durham it would also be a shame not to venture further afield and explore at least some of the glorious countryside and coast. Here are just a few of the highlights.

Beamish, the Living Museum of the North

I’ve not been myself but Moumita from  Chasing the Long Road highly recommends the Living Museum of the North, about 10 miles north of Durham.

“Beamish, the Living Museum of the North, is an open-air museum in Northeast England stretching over 300 acres of land. Beamish is a treasure trove of the late Victorian and Edwardian past of the local area – visiting this museum is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Durham. Located almost halfway between Durham and Newcastle-upon-Type, Beamish lies about 9 miles north of Durham City Centre.

Once here, hop on the vintage tram and explore the different sections of this open-air museum, such as 1900s Town, 1900s Pit Village, 1950s Farm, Colliery, and Pockerley. It’s beautifully preserved to make the visitors take a glimpse at how life was in Northeast England in the era of the industrial revolution. It’s fun, interactive, and educational – suitable for all ages.

Pop into Jubilee’s Sweet Shop and taste the old favourites like hardboiled sweets. You can see at the rear of the store how the chocolates are made using the recipes from the early 1900s. Davy’s Fish and Chip shop, cooked in beef drippings, in 1900s Pit village is a favourite among locals and tourists alike.

Don’t forget to collect the unlimited yearly pass that will let you come back throughout the year without having to pay anything extra.” Moumita

Public transport : From Durham Train Station, take the Northern Train to Chester-le-Street Station and from there, take bus service Country Ranger 8 to reach the Beamish Museum. The overall journey takes almost 40 minutes.

The Bowes Museum

My choice, however, would be the magnificent Bowes Museum, 25 miles southwest of the city of Durham. Housed in a purpose-built French Chateau on the edge of the quaint English village of Barnard Castle, The Bowes Museum houses a fabulous array of artworks including paintings, ceramics, textiles, and tapestries, collected by its founders, John Bowes and his wife Joséphine Benoîte Coffin-Chevallier, Countess of Montalbo, who sadly both died before the gallery opened in 1892. Its most renowned exhibit is the 18th-century Silver Swan automaton.

Website: TheBowesMuseum.org.uk Address Barnard Castle, County Durham, DL12 8NP

High Force Waterfall

Maja from Away With Maja also recommends visiting at least one of County Durham’s waterfalls.

“One of the best attractions in County Durham, High Force is a spectacular waterfall on the River Tees that drops 21 meters (69 feet).

The rocks surrounding the gorge are ancient – some date back over 300 million years. It’s a short walk on gravelled footpaths down to the main viewing point, and back via a loop through the woodland. It’s about 35 miles southwest of Durham but well worth visiting as part of a day out when staying in the area.” Maja

Location: High Force Waterfall, Alston Rd, Forest-in-Teesdale, Barnard Castle DL12 0XH Admission fee:£   2.50 for adults, £1 for children (ages 5-15), and free for children under 5. Parking is available at the High Force Hotel, which is £3 for 3 hours and £6 for 6 hours.

To see more of Upper Teesdale and the Durham Dales, visit Low Force waterfall, just downstream from High Force. It’s a hike of approximately 2 miles (which follows the Pennine Way National Trail) from Low Force to High Force. If you’re wanting to visit more waterfalls, head to Cow Green Reservoir and walk 30 minutes along the reservoir to see Cauldron Snout, another beautiful waterfall in the Pennines  AONB (Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty) that shouldn’t be missed!

Where to stay in Durham City Centre

The City Hotel is in a central location by Elvet Bridge. It’s perfectly situated to explore the city centre, castle and cathedral by day and the bars and restaurants by night. The hotel’s pub features live music at the weekend.

If you’d prefer something a little quieter, The Radisson Blu is a short walk from the old town and features all the facilities you’d expect from a larger hotel including a swimming pool, spa and fitness centre. The rooms are spacious, smart and comfortable with many overlooking the River Wear.

Where to stay in County Durham

Headlam hall, darlington.

This charming, family-owned 17th-century country house is set within a large walled garden in the scenic Durham dales. It’s an idyllic country retreat with a luxury spa and golf course. Headlam Hall is also a working farm providing much of the produce used in the superb restaurant.

Above: Lord Gainford Suite, Below: Headlam Hall Restaurant

Website: Headlam Hall Address: Near Gainford, Darlington, DL2 3HA

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Hello, I’m Kathryn, a travel writer, photographer and holistic therapist based on the south coast of England.

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Things To Do in Durham, England’s Quintessential City and County

Home » Destinations » Europe » UK » Things To Do in Durham, England’s Quintessential City and County

This website uses affiliate links which may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Updated: 28th November 2019

My visit was supported by Durham Tourism

When you think of England gone by, what do you imagine? Impressive cathedrals, castles of grandeur, stories of Bishops and Royalty amongst perfectly manicured gardens? Or perhaps it’s afternoon tea, museums of artefacts, and a jolly chin-wag over a cuppa? Well, for those who are searching for the quintessentially British experience, I think I’ve found the perfect answer: Durham.

Located in the northeast of England, just below Newcastle, Durham City is celebrated for its UNESCO-listed Castle and Cathedral, but what many people don’t realise is Durham isn’t just an underrated European city , it’s a whole region consisting of four different areas; Durham Dales, Vale of Durham, The Durham Coast and the city itself.

I think Durham is one of those  European hidden gems  that really captures the essence of a country. It’s surprising more visitors to England, or indeed us local folk, aren’t aware of how great a destination it is.

So, while some people make the mistake of passing through on a day trip, for those who stay a little while, you are rewarded with the chance to explore some slightly off-the-beaten-path gems in England. I recently spent four days experiencing the best of Durham, and I’ve detailed it all below, as well as in the video guide above, so you can get an idea of what you can experience during a long weekend visit to Durham.

Start in the city of Durham

Durham city itself makes for an ideal weekend break in England as it’s relatively compact and easy to explore on foot. With lots of fantastic restaurants and a cool bar scene, partly due to the university population that lives here and its UNESCO attractions, if you don’t have time to spend a long weekend exploring Durham, then you can happily fill two days just in the city.

Durham sits along the River Wear, and the riverbanks are perfect places to grab a coffee, enjoy a stroll, or hire a boat and head out yourself on a sunny day.

Around Market Place, you’ll find some of the best architecture in the city and also a fair few independent shops and stores, especially in the Inside Markets courtyard. For more boutique shops with some arty designs, head to Fowlers Yard, a small selection of shops on a cobbled street with plenty of hidden gems to discover.

While you’ll find plenty of traditional pubs and fish and chip shops in the city, there is also some funky place to grab a coffee or meal. Flat White is a top coffee shop and cafe, and with the faded wood and bright light inside, it’s a bit of an Instagrammers dream. For delicious food, I had a couple of great meals and highly recommended Zen for fantastic Thai and Lebaneat for tasty vegetarian meals. Of course, there is Greggs, a fab bakery chain which I unashamedly love!

Durham also has a fair few green spaces to enjoy, both in the parks near the river, Wharton Park, and the Botanic Gardens, which are just outside the city centre near the University Campus. But of course, the main draw to the city is the UNESCO Cathedral and Castle, which are both found on Palace Green.

Climb the tallest Cathedral tower in England

Undisputedly one of the grandest Cathedrals I have ever set foot in, it’s clearly deserving of its  UNESCO heritage status .

Construction began way back in 1093 and was dedicated to Saint Cuthbert, so it’s no surprise it’s his burial place. Unfathomably, it only took around 40 years to build the cathedral, and it still stands proud today.

Durham Cathedral  consists of the tower, main hall, side rooms transformed into a museum, and lots of pretty Cloisters, which have been used in films such as Harry Potter before.

Inside, it is absolutely spectacular, with the stained glass windows illuminating the grand hall and chapel in various hues, including a modern stained glass window, which is a work of art in itself.

The Cathedral also enlightens you about the history and importance of Durham, from the story of the Benedictine Monks who built the Cathedral and the catalyst for the development of Durham in medieval times. It’s a symbol of power and division, of showing status to the Saxons and the Scots, and more so, an introduction to the Bishops of Durham, whose stories intertwine with many of the attractions throughout the region due to the power bestowed on them by the king.

With the tallest and narrowest tower of any Cathedral in England, you need to like steps and not dislike tight spaces to make it to the top, but for those that do, you’ll be rewarded with fantastic views.

As Durham city is reasonably compact, you can admire right out across the Durham Dales, with greenery as far as the eye can see or autumn oranges if you visit in October as I did. It’s undoubtedly the best views of the city and region you’ll get, and I’m glad I ignored my fear of heights to make it up here.

Alongside the Cathedral, just off one of the cloisters, is the  Open Treasure Museum , with a collection from around the world but with a particular focus on local discoveries and gems such as the original Sanctuary Knocker and the sword of St. Cuthbert.

You can venture into the stone cellars and go through air-tight rooms with ancient maps. The collection rotates from time to time, and I spent a solid hour walking through the open treasure rooms, so allow for this time to climb the tower and, of course, marvel at the Cathedral itself. I was here for four hours in total.

Discover Durham Castle, now home to the University

The second part of the Durham UNESCO World Heritage site is Durham Castle, which, due to now being the University, is open by tours  bookable online .

The tours take around 45 minutes to an hour, and times vary, but it’s well worth booking on to one if you can. You’ll feel like you have stepped into the Harry Potter set, and in fact, they did request to film the grand dining room scenes here, but for some reason, it wasn’t possible.

in 1072 Durham Castle was commissioned by none other than King William the Conqueror, and its history is long and varied, most notably as the home of the Prince Bishops of Durham, and also having been a palace over the years.

You’ll be filled in on the key history during the tour, where you can expect to see lavish suite rooms used by Bishops, the aforementioned grand dining hall, which students use a canteen and is the breakfast room during B&B months, an ornate chape, underground carvings, and a museum of artefacts lining the hallways among other unique highlights.

One of the coolest things about Durham Castle is when the students leave for holidays, you can actually book in and stay here – and no, not just in the dorms! Some of the old Bishop’s suites, with grand four-poster beds, detailed bathrooms and lavish living areas, are available for sleeping in, and the prices, given the slice of UNESCO history you are bedding down in, are pretty fair. Find more details in the ‘where to stay’ section at the bottom of this page.

Step Back in time at Beamish, the Living Museum of the North – the best I’ve ever visited.

Hands down,  Beamish  is the best museum I’ve ever visited – and even with a full day here, I would gladly return for more. Luckily, given the scale of the place at  300 acres , if you buy a day ticket, you get to return as much as you want within a year.

Beamish, officially the Living Museum of the North, is home to countless interactive experiences that are well worth travelling for, and you can really get an idea of the history of England here as it plays out in front of you.

If you’re not familiar with the concept of a living museum, it basically works like an ordinary museum but with interactive elements and actors playing the characters that would be typical of the museum experiences; think museum meets interactive theme park. Before you ask, yes, as an adult, I was utterly entertained – I don’t think you can write this one off as just for the kids.

Some of the absolute highlights for me were seeing all the old-school trams, buses and steam rails going past (there are two train stations here!), which are all original or replicas of the original designs.

In the 1900s town, I enjoyed a dress-up and photography session, gorged on old-school treats from the sweet shop, admired the streets where a lot of the new Downton Abbey was filmed and even sank a pint in an old pub.

Across in the 1900’s village, I headed down a traditional mine, ate fish and chips cooked as it would have been in the day, popped into a school where teachers talked to tiny desks in front of blackboards and visited houses where the ‘owners’ were doing knitting and other tasks, always up for a chat! On top of this, there is a farm, a steam rail you can ride, an 1820s village and a brand new 1950s village about to open.

Head to the Dales for the impressive Raby Castle

It’s a tough call, but I think  Raby Castle  was the castle winner for me, even more so than Durham Castle!

Set amongst the rolling green hills of the Durham Dales, Raby Castle is fairly unique in that it is privately owned and not part of the English Heritage that operates many of the castles across the country. If you know me, you know I love  visiting Scotland  for all the castles, greenery and lochs, so Raby Castle was the perfect picture for me.

With deer trotting around the gardens and a considerable lake reflecting the castle like a mirror, the stately grandeur of the estate hardly went unnoticed. Tours of the castle operate for much of the year, excluding winter, and inside, it’s just as impressive as outside.

Dating back to the 14th century, Raby is one of the most impressive and best-kept medieval castles in the north of England. Purchased by the Vine Family in 1626, it has stayed in their keep since and is actually currently the seat of a Lord. That said, it is possible to get inside, as I mentioned on a tour, which will take you through the grand entrance hall, where horses and carts would have pulled up inside to deliver guests to the imposing staircase, and from here, you enter into the dining hall.

Multiple rooms are open to the public, each dressed up in all their glory, though one of my favourite parts of the house was the kitchen, which is a vast space in blues and whites adorned with bronze cooking equipment and, at times, would have seen up to 40 people working in here! It’s no surprise, given the impact of the castle, that it has been used as a filming location for various productions, including Victoria.

The area around the castle is open for dog walkers and ramblers, and there is also a lovely little cafe here situated in the old horse stables. If you are after a traditional English Afternoon Tea in a rather spectacular setting, you can’t go wrong here, although the menu is full of delicious dishes and daily specials, alongside the coffees and cakes on offer. If you have a car, you can quite easily do Raby, Bowes and Barnard in one day, given their proximity to each other in the Durham Dales.

Marvel at one man’s love at The Bowes Museum

At first glance, you think it’s a castle, then maybe a palace, but no, neither is correct!  The Bowes Museum  may be modelled like a Chateau in France, but it was always intended to be a museum and a gift, just in a very grand building!

Built as a gift to both his wife and the local people of where he called home, it has stood proud here since the 19th century thanks to John Bowes and his wife, Joséphine. Joséphine was an actress in France, and she and John fell in love, splitting their time between the two countries. Sadly, neither of them lived to see the museum completed, but inside, you’ll find a grand collection of their art and personal treasures, alongside some exhibited attractions.

The most famous of the collection is the Silver Swan, one of just a few 18th-century automatons still in existence in the world and here, it is still wound up and played daily at 2 pm!

Beyond that, each room in the museum has a collection ranging from theatre memorabilia to classic art, musical instruments, fashion and furniture. It’s also set up to be relatively interactive. At the time of my visit, there were Lego versions of the collection to play with and even a modern pottery collection of which guests were invited to take a piece home – a first for me in a museum! Even if you decide not to come inside the museum, the gardens and architecture are well worth a visit.

Stroll through the old market town of Barnard Castle

Between The Bowes Museum and Raby Castle, I briefly stopped in the adorable market town of Barnard Castle, which was like stepping back in time! Quaint independent pubs, cafes and shops lined the streets, with old houses and brickwork framing them.

The ruins of Barnard Castle itself sit just behind the town, although if you are short on time, then Raby Castle in its grandeur should be the priority as not that much remains of Barnard Castle. Another set of ruins, Egglestone Abbey, sits just a little further down the River Tees.

Enjoy the newly opened Auckland Castle and Bishop Auckland

An adorable old market town, Bishop Auckland is named after the Bishop of Durham, who used to own the land, and the town spread out from the recently re-opened to the public castle.

A walk around the small side streets here will take you to some quaint cafes, The Auckland Cupcake Co., a must-visit for those with a sweet tooth, and a couple of small independent shops selling local goods. The Auckland Project, a passionate organisation, is working to make Bishop Auckland a tourism destination again and also have its own creative hub and store called No. 42.

The HQ of  The Auckland Project  is at the Auckland Tower, well worth visiting for the views from the terrace alone, and inside, you’ll find all the history you might want to know about the Bishops of Durham over the years.

The star of the show is Auckland Castle, which sits in a vast area of green gardens and, as of November 2019, has been fully restored and opened to the public as a museum.

Sadly I was only able to visit the gallery inside on my visit as they were still putting the finishing touches in, but from the sneak peek I did get it seems like it’s going to be as fun and interactive as the other museums, I saw in Durham. With audio in each room, and a ‘lived in’ theme throughout the castle (think banquet tables with half-eaten feasts and wardrobes you can rummage around in) they have done a fantastic job of bringing the castle truly back to life!

Another part of The Auckland Project worth visiting is Bishop Trevor Galley, which is on the main square just down from the tower. The gallery focuses mainly on local artists telling the stories of the mining communities of the region, and with coal being such an important part of Durham’s history, there is quite a large collection of artwork here.

You could easily spend a full day in Bishop Auckland alone between the attractions here, and if you are here on the weekend in August or September, try and tie your visit in with the open-air performance of  Kynren , telling tales from England gone by, which did take place against the backdrop of the castle but from 2020 will be set in its own park with new attractions!

Understand the north-easts coal and rail history at Locomotion

Not far from Bishop Auckland is  Locomotion , located in Shildon, which is a short bus ride away.

This free museum is dedicated to rail, and the location is due to the Stockton & Darlington Railway opening their engineering headquarters here in the 1820s.

There is a huge collection of over 70 trains here, dating back over the years, with some even open so you can walk through them. It’s quite impressive (or perhaps depressing) to see how luxurious some of the train carriages were years ago compared to nowadays.

Outside, you can also see the historic buildings related to the local railway heritage and the old tracks. On certain days, you’ll see the old steam rail come to life again for those wanting to take a ride.

Search for sea glass along the Durham Heritage Coast

With time against me, I made a mad dash over to Seaham on the Durham Coast, planning to do a little hike along it. Sadly, the sun was already setting when I arrived, so I just settled in to enjoy a beautiful sunset during my last moments in Durham.

The Durham coast is quite well known for  sea glass , which I hadn’t heard of before, but due to the bottle works which used to be a long here, all of these beautiful colours of the glass have been weathered by the waters over the years and are along the beach, with people coming to collect the almost shiny pebbles for their collections!

There were still plenty more things I wanted to explore and experience in Durham, but it turned out four days wasn’t enough time. But in those four days, it genuinely did become one of my  top places to travel in England !

Find out more about Durham on the  official tourist board website !

Need to know: Durham

A few tips and tricks to make planning your visit to Durham even easier.

How to get to Durham?  The nearest airport to Durham is Newcastle Airport, which has plenty of international flights. From here, you can easily take the metro to Newcastle City and then a train to Durham. The total journey should be less than one hour, door to door.

If you are already in the UK, there are regular train connections to Durham on both high-speed and standard routes. The fastest journey time from London is about 2:45, and from Edinburgh , around two hours. As always in the UK, booking your train tickets as far in advance will save you money; I personally use  www.thetrainline.com .

Where to stay in Durham?  There are countless options of where to stay in Durham and on my visit I checked into the super cosy rooms at  The Kings Lodge Inn . Fair priced, walking distance to the city centre and train station, and with breakfast included, the rooms were modern but with traditional touches, and the team were very welcoming. It’s also a cracking pub, but luckily I didn’t find it too busy thus in the rooms there wasn’t any noise.

For a unique place to stay, consider booking one of the suites in Durham Castle, which are available when the University is on a break. You can check availability and pricing  here .

Getting around Durham?  The city itself is quite compact, and thus, you can easily discover it on foot. If you plan to head to, say, the Botanic Gardens, which are just outside the city centre, there are regular buses. To explore beyond the city centre, I’m happy to say everywhere I visited can be reached by public transport, sometimes direct and sometimes with a change or a short walk. The local buses offer an explorer day pass, which will save you money if heading to a few attractions in one day – check the  Go North East website  for timetables.

Events not to miss in Durham?  Durham has a packed annual events calendar, and there are two events you should absolutely visit if you are around at the time.  Lumiere  in November sees the city come to life with the UK’s largest light festival, as the city is projected upon with multiple light installations.  Kyren  is another must-see, which is an open-air performance set against the backdrop of Auckland Castle during the Saturdays of August and September and tells the story of England.

Accessibility in Durham?  The This is Durham website has an accessibility team, which can be contacted for more information  here , and their website lists accessibility information for all the attractions listed on the site. For specific main attractions, there is information online for the likes of  Durham Cathedral , Durham Castle (as part of the University) and  Beamish , where they also have modified transport.

Find out more:  For help planning your trip and discovering even more awesome places in Durham to visit and their packed-out events calendar, check out the official website at  www.thisisdurham.com/amazing  or follow @thisisDurham on social media.

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Excellent articles of places my wife and I visited- especially the scene of Cathedral and palace Green and some of the shots of interior of Cathedral. There is a very special reason for asking- but are any of these available to purchase for domestic/personal use only.

Thank you David. Drop me an email to [email protected] and let me know which images you want and if just as images or prints and I’ll see what I can do :)

Well, I want to say that your article is amazing and fabulous for everyone. I really love your article about Reasons to visit Durham City and County, the quintessential English getaway.

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