Things To Do
in Durham
Durham, United Kingdom, is a historic city known for its stunning Norman cathedral and castle, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The city is nestled along the banks of the River Wear, offering picturesque views and a charming ambiance. With a rich history dating back to the 7th century, Durham is a hub for education, culture, and the arts, largely due to its prestigious university.
Visitors can immerse themselves in its vibrant local culture, explore beautiful parks, and enjoy a variety of dining options.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Durham Cathedral, one of the finest examples of Norman architecture in England. Take a guided tour to learn about its history and significance.
Stroll through the beautiful Palace Green and visit the Durham Castle, where you can explore its ancient halls and learn about its role in British history.
Enjoy dinner at a local pub, such as The Cellar Door, known for its cozy atmosphere and traditional British dishes, followed by a leisurely walk along the riverbank.
Visit the Botanic Garden at Durham University to enjoy its diverse plant collections and peaceful surroundings. Take time to relax and explore the various trails.
Head to the Durham Market Hall to browse local crafts and food stalls, sampling local delicacies and picking up unique souvenirs.
Wrap up your trip with a visit to the Gala Theatre for a live performance or film screening, followed by a late dinner at the highly-rated restaurant, The French Table.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍽️Meal at a mid-range restaurant | $20 |
| ☕Coffee | $3 |
| 🍕Fast food meal | $10 |
| 🚌Public transport ticket | $2 |
| 🏨Hotel room (per night) | $100 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical heritage and stunning architecture.
- Vibrant cultural scene with numerous events and festivals.
- Walkable city with scenic views and outdoor spaces.
- Weather can be unpredictable, with frequent rain.
- Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
- Some areas can feel quiet, especially outside of university term times.
Places to Visit in Durham
Visit one of these nice places.
The iconic cathedral offers breathtaking views from its grounds and stunning architecture that is perfect for photography.
This picturesque bridge offers stunning views of both the River Wear and the cathedral, especially beautiful at sunset.
The castle provides a dramatic backdrop for photos, particularly from the gardens and the surrounding areas.
Food in Durham
Durham Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional bread from the North East of England, stottie cake is a round, flat loaf that is often filled with meat or served with soup.
Must-Try!
This savory dish made from boiled split peas is a popular local accompaniment, often served with ham or bacon.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market featuring local produce, artisan foods, and unique crafts. It’s a great place to sample local snacks and enjoy the atmosphere.
An annual event that showcases local food and drink producers with street food stalls, cooking demonstrations, and tastings.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Always queue in an orderly manner when waiting for services, as it is considered polite and respectful.
Use 'please' and 'thank you' frequently; politeness is highly valued in British culture.
Maintain a respectful demeanor in public spaces; loud conversations or disruptive behavior can be frowned upon.
Safety
Tipping in Durham
Ensure a smooth experience
It is customary to tip around 10-15% in restaurants if service is not included. In bars, rounding up the bill is common.
Most establishments accept credit and debit cards, and contactless payments are widely used, making transactions easy.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities and exploring parks.
Summer brings warm weather and plenty of festivals; however, it can also attract crowds, so plan ahead for accommodations.
The changing leaves create a beautiful backdrop, and the weather remains pleasant for sightseeing before winter sets in.
Cold temperatures and occasional snowfall can occur, but the city’s festive decorations and markets create a cozy atmosphere.
Durham at Night
Hiking in Durham
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located about 10 miles from Durham, this woodland area offers numerous trails for walking and cycling amidst beautiful scenery.
Approximately 12 miles from Durham, Hamsterley Forest is a popular spot for hiking, mountain biking, and enjoying nature with various trails to explore.
Airports
How to reach Durham by plane.
Located approximately 30 miles from Durham, this airport offers a range of domestic and international flights, making it the nearest major airport to the city.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Due to Durham University, a significant portion of the population consists of students, contributing to the city's vibrant and youthful atmosphere.
Families are a prominent demographic group, drawn to the city’s educational facilities and family-friendly activities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Durham, with local clubs and community teams actively participating in leagues.
Cricket enjoys popularity, especially in the summer months, with local matches often held in parks and fields.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Durham.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Durham offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, but it's advisable to check the menu beforehand or ask staff for options.
Gluten-free options are increasingly available, especially in larger restaurants and cafes. Always inform your server of your dietary needs.