Durham is a tranquil city. It has a beautiful cathedral and castle that make you curious to find out more.
Introducing Durham
Durham is a beautiful and compact city. It has many historical buildings and is finished off with a stunning river and pathways lined with trees. Even though we have visited it often, we are always able to find new things to do or even come back to the same places.
Durham Cathedral is a city highlight and one of the main reasons the locals and tourists come back is to explore it. The City of Durham is a hidden gem destination for the United Kingdom. Have you wondered how many tourists in the UK are aware of the beauty of the city? Especially rewarding are the views across the River Wear towards Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle while walking along the riverbank. The views give a charming vista of the city and are a thrill to all the visitors.
Not only the city centre, but you also should explore and visit beyond it, to Barnard Castle, Seaham and Ushaw to name a few nearby places which offer you different experiences.
Things To Do Main Activities Just strolling around the city is the most easy thing to do in Durham. However, there are plenty of other great things to do outside the city centre which I have included too. I have divided the things to do into three areas: in the city centre, within reach of the city centre and beyond city centre. Explore the magnificent Durham Cathedral Durham Cathedral is a magnificent building. It was built strategically surrounded by the River Wear. The cathedral was built in 1093 and was a former monastic cathedral for Benedictine monks. Overall the architectural style is a mix of Norman, Romanesque and decorated and there is also even an element of Gothic style about it. Durham Cathedral is one of the most beautiful buildings in the United Kingdom. I have visited this cathedral many times and come out with the 'WOW' word every time. The stained glass is amazingly good e.g. the Rose Window. It casts dappled colourful sunlight on to the stone floor. Each of the huge Norman pillars are carved and importantly they are in different motifs. The chancel area as good as other parts of the cathedral, it's absolutely gorgeous with its ornate pews and carving and colourful tiles with different patterns. For those who are looking for Harry Potter's spots, sections of the movies were filmed here in the cloister, and you might recognise this cathedral. There are lots of areas to explore and see in the cathedral e.g. the chapel, the cathedral library and treasure exhibition. Most importantly, if you are fit and want a challenge, climb the tower and be rewarded with wonderful views of the structure and the city. Spend at least one to two hours to see the best of Durham Cathedral inside and outside. Tip | Walk a full circle inside the cathedral before going out to the cloister or climbing the tower. Address | Durham DH1 3EH, UK / Hours | Check Durham Cathedral website / Admission | Free but donations are welcome Climb the 324 steps of Durham Cathedral Tower Climbing the tower is a must if you would like to view the city from above. Climbing up the 325 steps of Durham Cathedral Tower is definitely worth it. It was interesting to see and think how they built the tower; many of the original features are still intact until today. The views from the top are stunning and breathtaking. The wind was blowing a gale on the top when we last visited. I can't imagine how this tower was built without any sophisticated technologies and machines. And it's still standing today. But perhaps you can get an idea of how this magnificent building was constructed while you climb the tower because you get interesting views of the building through the narrow windows. Its a good exercise for those who climb this tower too. Spend your time here at least 30 minutes or so to view the city and beyond from the tower. Tip | Wear proper shoes because you are climbing a spiral staircases; the top staircase steps are especially small. Address | Durham DH1 3EH, UK / Hours | 9.30am to 4.30pm, Monday to Saturday & 12.30pm to 4.30pm, Sunday / Admission | Adult, £5 & children (7 to 18), £2.50 Explore history at Durham Museum
The Durham Museum is located close to Durham Cathedral. It is housed in a medieval church, once the parish church of the North Bailey. The highlight is the stained glass at the chancel area which is stunning and also there are original pews and floor tiles too. The museum displays the history of the city from medieval times to the 20th century including the Georgian and Victorian times. You can walk around the museum garden and there are two interesting sculptures by local artist, Fenwick Lawson, one just located at the gate area and another at the back. They are quite interesting sculptures to look at. Spend at least 30 minutes or so to see most of the display and the garden area. Address | St Mary-le-Bow, North Bailey, Durham City, County Durham, DH1 3ET, UK / Hours | Check Durham Museum website / Admission | Adults £5.00, & Children (under 16) is free
Study archeology at Museum of Archeology The Museum of Archeology is located inside Palace Green Library. It was founded in 1883. The museum collection ranges from the prehistoric to the post-medieval. It has some important objects that you can see and admire. The permanent exhibition in the museum, the Living on the Hills - 10,000 years of Durham, is very interesting, providing you with the timeline of Durham's history. If you like history, this is a place to find information on artifacts and culture. Spend at least 30 minutes or so of your time to see the exhibitions. Address | Palace Green Library Palace Green, Durham City, County Durham, DH1 3RN, UK / Hours | Monday, 12 to 5pm and Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 5pm / Admission | Free but donations are most welcome Explore Durham Castle
Durham Castle is just a stone's throw away from Durham Cathedral and is one of Durham's UNESCO heritage sites. The castle has been home to Durham University since 1840 and is still used for teaching facilities.
This building was built in the 11th century following the Norman Conquest. It acted as a defence against the Scots at that time. You can join a 50 minutes guided tour during the university term break. The tour includes Bishop Bek’s Great Hall, the Romanesque Norman Chapel and Tunstall Chapel. This is a beautiful building with an interesting interior and history.
Tip | You can book the tour in advance. No walk in visit.
Address | Durham city centre, UK / Hours | Check Durham Castle website / Admission | Adult £5, over 60s/concessions £4.50 & children (under 16 years)is free
Roaming in Durham Riverwalk Durham Riverside Walk is set below Durham Cathedral and River Wear. This riverside walk is in total a 3 mile circular walk but it's easy to reduce the distance and take short cuts back into the city. A wonderful walk taking in some beautiful Durham city riverside scenery, with large trees branching out over the river. The walk takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours. I'd suggest taking a circuitous path, beginning at Elvet Bridge and ascending North Bailey Street to the Cathedral to take in its beauty up close. After passing through a side alley, descend to the River Wear, follow the river walk to Prebends Bridge and then return along the river for stunning views of the cathedral. Then at Framwellgate Bridge, you'll cross the river once more before returning via Market Square. Tip | Wear comfortable shoes because it involves uneven surfaces. People watching at Market Place Durham Market Place is one of the busiest and most prominent areas of the city. It has medieval origins, with later-period buildings surrounding it. The most prominent features are the Town Hall and Guildhall, St. Nicholas Church, statues of Neptune, and the third Marquess of Londonderry. If you're looking for one, there are places to eat and drink, including Market Tavern and Bell's. Or just grab a coffee and a sandwich and enjoy people-watching or admire the buildings surrounding it. Buy and eat at Durham Market Hall This is a Victorian indoor market place. It was opened in 1852 and was restored in 1996 to its former glory. Durham Market Place has more than 50 traders and most of them are from Durham. There are bakers, artisan confectioners, haberdashers, art suppliers, jewellers, tobacco sellers, fishmongers and butchers, to name a few. You can have your afternoon tea or morning coffee here. Address | Market Place, Durham DH1 3NJ, UK / Hours | Check Market Hall website / Admission | Free Visit Durham Town Hall
Durham Town Hall is in a Gothic architectural style and it's a Grade II listed building. While you are in the city this is well worth a visit. It was opened to the public in 2018. You can see how it has developed from the first timber structure of 1356 to the complex building it is today. The facade of the town hall was completely refaced in 1754. The Main Hall is very beautiful with stained-glass windows and a hammerbeam roof, 17 metres high. Spend at least 30 to 45 minutes of your time here. Address | Durham Town Hall, Market Place, Durham DH1 3NJ, UK / Hours | Check Durham Town Hall website / Admission | Free but donations are most welcome Wander around Crook Hall and its gardens Crook Hall and Gardens is located a short walk from the city centre. It is a beautiful place with its medieval hall and Jacobean building attached to it. If you're an architecture enthusiast you might want to see this hall. In addition to the hall, there are gorgeous and colourful lush gardens and an orchard. The garden has different themes with different flowers and shrubs, and also offers great views overlooking the surrounding areas. Explore the gardens from one to another. The oldest part of Crook Hall was built in the first half of the 14th century by Peter del Croke. Over the centuries a number of families lived in the manor house from the Croke family which is the name the hall came from. The Billingham family bought it from the Croke family, then the Hopper family and finally the Bell family. The Hopper family added the beautiful Georgian wing which is currently not open to public. The Bell family was the last owner of this manor house before the National Trust took over the ownership in March 2022. Spend at least one to two hours of your time to explore the hall and gardens. Address | Frankland Lane, Sidegate, Durham, DH1 5SZ, UK / Hours vary | Check Crook Hall website / Admission | Check Crook Hall website
Wander around the city centre One of the best free things to do is to just walk around the city. If you want to get to know more of the city walk freely and enjoy the city's ambiance and see what it can offers. In Durham city centre there are plenty of historical buildings you can view from medieval to even modern ones. The best area to walk is from Elvet Bridge to Framwellgate Bridge, in between walking along Saddler Street. You can see beautiful buildings to view and look at. Learn about Asian history at Oriental Museum Once you have visited the Botanic Gardens, you could go to Oriental Museum which is located not that far from the garden. The Oriental Museum is dedicated to Asian and African cultures and was established in 1960. The museum has collections from China, ceramics of the Korean Goryeo Dynasties, figurines and jade from the Indian subcontinent and more. As a museum, it is a great place to learn about Asian culture and arts. Address | Elvet Hill Rd, South Rd, Durham DH1 3TH, UK / Hours | Monday to Friday, 10am to 5pm and Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holidays, 12pm to 5pm / Admission | Check Oriental Museum website
Learn about the plants at Durham Botanic Gardens If you like to be surrounded by different kinds of plants, the Botanic Gardens is definitely a place you should visit. It has wide collections of plants from around the world, from bamboo to wildflowers and cacti to tropical plants. Sometimes you can see insects and animals e.g. butterflies, birds, squirrels and others in the park. You may like to join a bird-spotting activity or other activities that the garden holds from time to time. The Botanic Gardens is part of Durham University and covers a space of some 25 acres. Spend at least one to two hours of your time to explore each part of the gardens. Address | South Rd, Durham DH1 3DF, UK / Hours | Check Durham Botanic Gardens website / Admission | Check Durham Botanic Gardens website
See some stunning trains at Locomotion, Shildon
Locomotion, Shildon is a train museum in county Durham. Surprisingly this is a great museum to visit and explore. It has some amazing trains that you can look at and admire. Among the trains that you can see here are a Fireless locomotive, the Royal train of Queen Alexandra, a Deltic diesel train and even a snowplough train. Each of these trains has their unique features, pieces of engineering and technologies that help to delevop and shape today's modern trains. I can say I liked all of them.
Here you can also see three world-famous early trains: the Rocket, designed by Stephenson; Locomotion No. 1, which is the first steam locomotive in the world to pull a passenger carriage; and Sans Pareil, which took part in the Rainhill Trials of 1829. All three are stunning examples of design and engineering.
Tip | A 25 minutes drive from Durham city centre and 45 minutes to one hour from Newcastle upon Tyne.
Address | Locomotion, Shildon DL4 2RE, UK / Hours | Check Locomotion website / Admission | Check Locomotion website
Explore the Ushaw and learn about the history Ushaw historic house, chapels and gardens is a former Catholic seminary and was founded in 1808. This beautiful place is located a mile from Durham city centre within a beautiful setting. The buildings feature great examples of Georgian and Victorian Gothic architecture throughout the Main House and Chapels. You can't get enough of these buildings and you might want to spend more time to see and enjoy them. The highlight is the St. Cuthbert’s Chape. The church interiors absolutely gorgeous from ceiling to the floors, and furniture and fixtures. And of course it was designed by the genius Augustus Pugin, the architect who was responsible for the Houses of Parliament and Big Ben. Do explore its gardens. It's a great place to wander around and learn about the plants, flowers and trees. From the garden you can view the chapel and the Main House. Spend at least 1.5 to two hours of your time here. Enjoy it slowly especially the church and the chapels. Address | Usham Moor, Durham city, DH7 9RH, UK / Hours | 11am to 3pm, daily / Admission | Adult £8, child £5 (under 16s), £3 daily parking charge Learn the history at Finchale Priory Finchale Priory was a 13th century Benedictine priory and it is a grade I listed building. It was built by Durham Cathedral monks on the site of a 12th century hermitage. The hermitage was founded by St Godric of Finchale. It served as a summer retreat for the monks, an escape from the busy life of Durham city. It took a long time to be constructed. It has been recorded and identified that the buildings on the site date from the late 12th century to the mid-16th century. The earliest surviving stonework dates to 1196. Like other monastic establishments, Finchale was dissolved by Henry VIII, and the complex of priory buildings fell into disuse as you can in the photographs. Besides enjoying this beautiful priory, you can go along the riverside walk or have a picnic with friends and family, either in the grounds of the priory or nearby. Spend at least one hour to 1.5 hours before going to your next location. Address | Finchale Ave, Framwellgate Moor, Durham DH1 5SH , UK / Hours | Check their website / Admission | Free Explore Barnard Castle Barnard Castle is a ruined medieval castle situated in the town of the same name in County Durham. The remains of the medieval castle still look strong standing on the same site since its was built. The highlights during our visit were the view towards the town and the River Tees from the castle tower. Barnard Castle was built by the Normans shortly after the conquest. The stone castle was built and extended by Bernard de Balliol and his son in the latter half of the 12th century. The Baliol family owned the castle for two centuries and founded the town of the same. In the early Middle Ages, the castle was one of the strongest fortresses in the north of England.
Over the centuries the castle passed through the hands of some of the most powerful families in England including Beauchamps, Earls of Warwick, and later by the Nevill family. Today, its ruin has become one of tourist hot spots in County Durham. Address | Flatts Rd, Scar Top, Barnard Castle DL12 8PR, UK / Hours | Check Barnard Castle website / Admission | Adult, £6.90, Child (5-17 year), £4.10, Concession, £6.20 and for more ticket price do check their official website Visit the Bowes Castle Bowes Castle is located approximately 10 minutes drive from Barnard Castle town and approximately 15 minutes by bus. When you're visiting Barnard Castle, take a short trip to Bowes Castle. A visit to this castle is 100% worth it. Even though the castle is compact in size personally I like it and not to mention the countryside views. We had this place to ourselves which is very good without a crowd compared to Barnard Castle. Address | The St, Bowes, Barnard Castle DL12 9HP, UK / Hours | Open any reasonable time during daylight hours / Admission | Free Enjoy the paintings at Bowes Museum
The Bowes Museum is located in Barnard Castle town. This stunning building displays a sizable interesting and beautiful collection of decorative art, ceramics, textiles, tapestries, clocks and costumes, as well as items from local history. This fabulous building reminds you of a French chateau. End your visit by browsing at the retail shop, or have afternoon tea in Café Bowes.
Address | Newgate, Barnard Castle DL12 8NP, UK / Hours | Open daily 10.00 - 5.00, Closed only 25 & 26 December & 1 January / Admission | Check Bowes Museum website
Enjoy the beautiful Egglestone Abbey
Egglestone Abbey is located approximately 6 minutes drive from Barnard Castle town and approximately 40 minutes walking distance.
This lovely abbey is set above a bend in the River Tees. The strategic location gives significant stunning view of countryside from the abbey. These views gave extra advantages for the abbey and even today for those who are visiting and enjoying this kind of setting. Once you finish at the abbey you could walk along the River Tees and immerse yourself into the nature. Egglestone Abbey is located a short drive from Barnard Castle. It is a great opportunity to visit this place after you have finished at the castle.
Egglestone Abbey was established around 1195 by a group of Premonstratensian canons. The abbey was dedicated to St Mary and St John the Evangelist. Throughout its history, the abbey suffered from ongoing poverty. After the Dissolution of the Monasteries, the abbey was sold to Robert Strelly. He converted the buildings into domestic quarters for himself and his family and a farmhouse was built in the grounds of the abbey. Over the years, the abbey fell into decay and these are the ruins we see today.
Spend at least one hour to 1.5 hours of your time here. Address | Abbey Ln, Bowes, Barnard Castle DL12 9TH, UK / Hours | Check Egglestone Abbey website / Admission | Free
Walking along Seaham beaches
Seaham is located approximately 52 minutes by train from Durham city centre (via Newcastle upon Tyne) and approximately 25 minutes by car.
Would you like to walk on a promenade? Seaham seafront could be the answer. You could spend a whole day here, wandering from Seaham Marina, Featherbed Rocks Beach to Blast Beach and Chemical Beach. Grab your favourite sandwiches and coffee and enjoy the views.
Tip | If you've decided to take the train, you have to go to Newcastle Central Train Station first and then take a train to Seaham on the Middlesbrough line.
Shopping at Dalton Park Outlet
If you are into shopping you may like to pay a visit to Dalton Park Outlet. You have to take a bus or taxi or Uber to get to this shopping outlet, or go by car. It is the biggest shopping outlet in North East with over 60 shops e.g. Next, Clarks and Body Shop to name a few. Spend your whole afternoon here to find any bargains and have afternoon tea or dinner here before returning back to city centre. With plenty of cafes throughout the outlet you can sit back and relax.
Address | Church St, Murton, Seaham SR7 9HU, UK / Hours | Check Dalton Park Outlet website / Admission | Free
Other Activities Here I suggest a few other activities you can do while you are in Durham city, especially if you have some extra days. Or maybe you can squeeze one or two of them in to your existing itinerary. Some of them can be enjoyed while you are walking from one place to another. River cruise. Durham river cruises give you spectacular views of this historical city. The captain will share the history along your cruise. Drink is available during the cruise. One hour river cruise prices: adult is £10, children is £5 & senior citizen is £8. Rowing boat. Are you up for some boat rowing? You can do it leisurely along the River Wear. You can enjoy the beautiful views of the surroundings of Durham and the tranquillity of the river. The boats can be hired for a cost per adult of £7 & children for £5.
Walking. If you have ample time in the county, there are plenty of scenic walking routes that you can enjoy. Just check online which one you want to do. Getting to Durham You can get to Durham by plane, train, bus or car. The choice of transport depends on your last location before travelling to Durham. By flight. Durham has a small airport, Teesside International Airport, which is a 40 minutes drive to the city. The number of airlines that fly direct to the airport is limited. Currently there are KLM, BH Air and Albastar that are operating regularly at the airport. The other nearest airport to Durham is Newcastle International Airport, which has plenty of international flights. From here, you can easily take the metro to Newcastle Central Train Station and then continue your train journey to Durham. The total journey should be less than 1 hour door to door.
By train. Durham is well connected by trains from most major cities in the country. If you are already in the UK, there are regular train connections to Durham on both high-speed and standard routes from Manchester, Sheffield and Leeds. The train journey from London King's Cross is about 2.45 hours and from Edinburgh is about 2 hours. Tips | I suggest to book your train tickets as far in advance to save your money. Check the train tickets online time by time is the best way to find the best deal. By coach. If you are a budget traveller you might want to consider taking a coach. There are several coach services to Durham from major cities in England on a daily basis. Places to stay There is a range of accommodation choices in Durham city centre, from hostels to luxury hotels. Hotel Indigo Durham, Durham Marriott Hotel Royal County, Premier Inn Durham City Centre are amongst the hotels located in the city centre. For a list of hotels you should check booking.com. Getting around Durham The city itself is compact and you can easily discover it on foot. If you plan to head to the Botanic Gardens for example which are just outside the city centre, there are regular buses.
The local buses offer a day pass which will save you money if heading to a few attractions in one day. Check the Nexus website for timetables and tickets. By Bus. The buses run from 6am to midnight, Mondays through Saturdays and Sundays and holidays from 7am to 9pm. Different bus providers have different start and finish times. Do check their timetable online to ensure that your travel is not disturbed. By Taxi and UBER. They are available in the city for 24 hours; if you decide to use a taxi make sure to go for an authorised taxi e.g. Blueline, for safety reasons. For UBER make sure to download the app to your mobile phone if you want to use the service. Places to eat Durham has plenty of places to eat from street kiosks and cafes to restaurants. Bell's Fish and Chips, the Undercroft Restaurant, Cafedral Durham, Akarsu Turkish Restaurant & Grill and Golden Pearl are the places that we have been to and all of them are highly recommended.
Concluding remarks on trip to Durham
Durham is a must-visit city in the North of England if you are travelling to the UK. It is home to one of the most beautiful cathedrals in the country, stunning riverside walks, arts and cultures but also home to excellent cafes, restaurants and shops. As a compact city, it is easy to navigate from one place to another but if you want to go beyond the city, then you need other types of transportation. Durham city can be a wonderful experience even if you decide only to visit the city centre.
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