Things To Do
in Durham
Durham is a historic city located in northeastern England, known for its stunning architecture and picturesque setting along the River Wear. The city is dominated by its iconic Durham Cathedral and Castle, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Durham University, one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the UK, adds a vibrant and intellectual atmosphere to the city.
Visitors can explore the quaint cobbled streets, charming shops, and enjoy the beautiful countryside surrounding Durham.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $2 - $5
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the magnificent Durham Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site. After soaking in the stunning architecture, enjoy a coffee at the nearby café.
Stroll across the historic Framwellgate Bridge and explore the charming streets of the city. Visit the Durham Castle for a glimpse into the city's medieval history.
Dinner at a local pub for a true taste of British cuisine. Enjoy an evening walk along the river to take in the serene beauty of Durham at sunset.
Begin your morning with a walk in the beautiful Wharton Park, where you can enjoy the lush greenery. Don’t forget to visit the park's historic war memorial.
Head to the Oriental Museum to discover artifacts from the East. Enjoy lunch at the museum café surrounded by art and culture.
Experience local theater at the Gala Theatre. After the show, explore the vibrant nightlife in the city center with various bars and restaurants.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical and cultural heritage, including the iconic Durham Cathedral and Castle.
- Beautiful natural surroundings, including the River Wear and surrounding countryside.
- Strong educational institutions, notably Durham University, which attracts students from around the world.
- A vibrant local community with numerous events, festivals, and markets throughout the year.
- Good transport links to larger cities like Newcastle and Leeds.
- Relatively high cost of living compared to other towns in the North East of England.
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors outside of education and tourism.
- Weather can be unpredictable, with frequent rain and cold winters.
- Public transport options may not be as extensive as in larger cities.
- Some areas may experience a lack of nightlife and social activities compared to bigger urban centers.
Best Activities in Durham
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the historical city of Durham on foot with a guided walking tour that takes you through the medieval streets and past landmarks such as Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle.
Enjoy a leisurely stroll in the Durham University Botanic Garden, featuring a wide variety of plants, woodlands, and glasshouses, making it an ideal outdoor activity for nature lovers.
Take a scenic walk along the River Wear, which runs through Durham, offering picturesque views and the opportunity to appreciate the natural beauty of the area.
Tours
Uncover the best of Durham with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Durham
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the city and River Wear
Provides picturesque views of the surrounding area
Offers panoramic views of Durham
Scenic spots along the river for beautiful photo opportunities
Food in Durham
Durham Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A local specialty, this soft and round bread is perfect for sandwiching savory fillings like pease pudding, ham, or bacon. Visit The Stottie Company for a classic taste.
Must-Try!
A comforting casserole dish made with pork, bacon, potatoes, and onions. Experience this hearty dish at The Angel Inn, a popular spot for traditional English meals.
Indulge in a saveloy sausage served in a round bread bun and dipped in pease pudding. Enjoy this local favorite at Dicksons, known for its delectable sausages.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Durham better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Explore Durham's bustling indoor market offering a diverse range of fresh produce, baked goods, and local specialties. Don't miss the street food section for savory snacks from various cuisines.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Durham, it is important to respect personal space and avoid standing too close to others, especially when in queues or public places.
Politeness and courtesy are highly valued in Durham. It's important to say 'please' and 'thank you' in interactions with locals.
Observing social etiquette such as greeting people with a handshake or maintaining eye contact when speaking is considered respectful in Durham.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Durham with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Durham
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping in Durham, United Kingdom is not obligatory, but it is appreciated in restaurants, bars, and for taxi services. It is common to leave a tip of 10-15% of the total bill if the service was satisfactory.
Payment in Durham, United Kingdom is commonly made using cash, debit cards, and credit cards. Contactless payment is widely accepted, and most businesses also accept mobile payment methods such as Apple Pay and Google Pay.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Durham.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Durham, as the weather is mild and the city comes alive with blooming flowers and greenery. You can expect various cultural events and festivals during this time.
Summer is also a popular time to visit Durham, with longer days and pleasant weather. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities, explore the city's historic sites, and attend music and food festivals.
Autumn in Durham brings beautiful fall foliage, cooler temperatures, and fewer crowds. It's a great time for scenic walks along the riverbanks and to experience the city's rich history and heritage.
Winter is a quiet time in Durham, with fewer tourists and a peaceful atmosphere. The city's Christmas market and festive events add to the charm, and visitors can enjoy cozy days exploring museums and cozying up in cafes.
Durham at Night
Hiking in Durham
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic area offering a variety of trails through picturesque countryside, forests, and along rivers, perfect for hiking enthusiasts.
While primarily known for its gardens, nearby areas offer charming walks along the River Wear and through historic landscapes.
A park with a variety of walking paths, providing views of the city and the surrounding countryside, suitable for a leisurely hike.
Features numerous walking trails and beautiful views, this area is great for a short hike close to Durham.
A bit further afield, this natural wonder is accessible via hiking trails and offers stunning views of one of England's highest waterfalls.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Durham through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Durham by plane.
The nearest major international airport to Durham, located approximately 30 miles to the northeast.
An international airport situated about 70 miles to the south of Durham.
A significant international airport located approximately 100 miles to the south of Durham.
One of the largest airports in the UK, located around 270 miles to the south of Durham.
An international airport located approximately 120 miles to the north of Durham.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Durham, comprising the majority of the population.
Includes individuals of Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi, and other Asian backgrounds.
Includes individuals of African and Caribbean descent.
Individuals who identify with two or more ethnic backgrounds.
Includes individuals from various other ethnic backgrounds not specified in the main categories.
The Soul of Durham
Discover the essence of Durham through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is a popular sport in Durham, known for its historic clubs and the famous Durham County Cricket Club, which plays at the Riverside Ground in Chester-le-Street.
Football is widely played in Durham, with numerous local clubs and the professional team Sunderland AFC located nearby, along with other clubs representing the city in various leagues.
Rugby union and rugby league are popular, with local clubs providing opportunities for amateur players and a strong following for professional rugby.
Athletics is a key sport in Durham, supported by several local athletics clubs and events, including cross-country races and track competitions.
Rowing is popular due to the River Wear, with various clubs and racing events, particularly around Durham University.
Cycling has gained popularity in Durham, with many scenic routes and trails, as well as organized events and competitions throughout the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Durham.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Durham boasts numerous eateries with dedicated vegetarian and vegan menus, such as Zen, offering a variety of plant-based delights.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can enjoy dining at places like The Cellar Door, known for its gluten-free options including sumptuous cakes and sandwiches.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Durham with these cultural adventures.
