Durham: A Timeless Jewel of Heritage and Beauty
Nestled in the picturesque North East of England, Durham is a city brimming with history, charm, and scenic beauty. Known for its stunning cathedral and castle, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Durham offers a glimpse into medieval England. The cathedral, with its Romanesque architecture, stands as a testament to the city's religious and historical significance. Wander through the cobbled streets of the historic city center, where every corner reveals a story from the past. Beyond its historical allure, Durham boasts a vibrant cultural scene. The city's compact size makes it easy to explore on foot, allowing you to discover quaint cafes, unique shops, and lively markets. Don't miss the chance to stroll along the River Wear, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the city's skyline reflected in the water. For nature lovers, the surrounding countryside offers lush landscapes and scenic walking trails, perfect for a day of exploration. Durham is also home to a prestigious university, adding a youthful energy to the city's atmosphere. Throughout the year, the city hosts various festivals and events that celebrate its rich cultural heritage. From music festivals to historical reenactments, there's always something happening in Durham that will captivate your interest. Whether you're a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a charming getaway, Durham promises an unforgettable experience.
Local tips in Durham
- Visit the Durham Cathedral early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience.
- Take a guided walking tour to learn fascinating stories about the city's history and architecture.
- Explore the botanical gardens at Durham University for a relaxing afternoon surrounded by nature.
- Try the local delicacy, Stottie cake, at a traditional bakery.
- Use the Durham Park and Ride service to easily access the city center without the hassle of parking.
Durham: A Timeless Jewel of Heritage and Beauty
Nestled in the picturesque North East of England, Durham is a city brimming with history, charm, and scenic beauty. Known for its stunning cathedral and castle, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Durham offers a glimpse into medieval England. The cathedral, with its Romanesque architecture, stands as a testament to the city's religious and historical significance. Wander through the cobbled streets of the historic city center, where every corner reveals a story from the past. Beyond its historical allure, Durham boasts a vibrant cultural scene. The city's compact size makes it easy to explore on foot, allowing you to discover quaint cafes, unique shops, and lively markets. Don't miss the chance to stroll along the River Wear, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the city's skyline reflected in the water. For nature lovers, the surrounding countryside offers lush landscapes and scenic walking trails, perfect for a day of exploration. Durham is also home to a prestigious university, adding a youthful energy to the city's atmosphere. Throughout the year, the city hosts various festivals and events that celebrate its rich cultural heritage. From music festivals to historical reenactments, there's always something happening in Durham that will captivate your interest. Whether you're a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or simply looking for a charming getaway, Durham promises an unforgettable experience.
When is the best time to go to Durham?
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Angel of the North
A colossal steel angel rising from a former coal mine, welcoming travellers and symbolising the spirit of the North East.
The Riverwalk
Durham’s vibrant riverside hub for shopping, dining, cinema, and leisure overlooking the scenic River Wear.
Tyne Bridge
An iconic steel arch bridge spanning the River Tyne, symbolising NewcastleGateshead’s industrial heritage and modern spirit.
Hexham Abbey
Medieval sanctuary where 1,350 years of faith, art, and history converge in Northumberland's most treasured abbey.
Grey's Monument
A towering tribute at Newcastle’s heart, celebrating Earl Grey and the dawn of modern democracy in Britain.
Prebends Bridge
An 18th-century stone bridge framing one of England's most iconic cathedral views
Durham Town Hall
Victorian civic landmark hosting culture, heritage, and community in Durham's historic heart.
Framwellgate Bridge
Durham’s oldest stone bridge, a medieval marvel offering iconic views of the cathedral and river, steeped in history and timeless charm.
St John the Baptist Church
Medieval sanctuary with eight centuries of history, treasured stained glass, and architectural gems hidden in Newcastle's city centre.
Durham Band Stand
A peaceful riverside bandstand with one of Durham’s most iconic cathedral views, perfect for quiet moments and photography by the River Wear.
Market place
Medieval marketplace meets Victorian grandeur—Durham's beating heart of commerce, culture, and community.
The High Level Bridge
A pioneering double-deck Victorian bridge uniting rail and road across the River Tyne, symbolizing Newcastle’s industrial heritage.
Durham Viaduct
A majestic Victorian railway viaduct soaring over Durham’s River Wear, blending engineering excellence with stunning historic city views.
St Margaret of Antioch Church
A historic Norman church in Durham blending centuries of architecture and vibrant worship near the city’s World Heritage site.
Durham Tower
A well-preserved medieval tower and stretch of Newcastle’s historic town wall, standing as a quiet monument to the city’s fortified past.
Unmissable attractions to see
Beamish, the Living Museum of the North
Step back in time at Beamish, an expansive open-air museum bringing North East England’s history vividly to life across four iconic eras.
Eldon Square
Newcastle’s bustling city-centre shopping and dining hub with over 140 stores and 30+ eateries, welcoming all with style and inclusivity.
Grainger Market
Step into Grainger Market, Newcastle’s historic indoor market since 1835, where vibrant stalls and Victorian charm create a timeless shopping adventure.
Durham Cathedral
Discover Durham Cathedral’s Norman grandeur, sacred relics, and breathtaking views in the heart of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Gateshead Millennium Bridge
A stunning tilting bridge linking Gateshead and Newcastle, famed for its elegant arch and iconic 'winking eye' design over the River Tyne.
Theatre Royal
Historic Grade I listed theatre in Newcastle offering world-class drama, musicals, opera, and family shows in a stunning Victorian setting.
The Gate
Newcastle’s vibrant leisure complex blending dining, nightlife, cinema, and gaming under one roof in the city centre.
Fenwick Newcastle
Newcastle’s grand department store with luxury fashion, a gourmet food hall, and the famous Christmas window – a must-visit shopping and dining destination in the city centre.
Durham Heritage Coast
Discover the wild beauty and tranquil charm of Durham Heritage Coast, where rugged cliffs meet serene beaches and rich wildlife thrives.
Raby Castle, Deer Park & The Plotters' Forest
Explore the majestic medieval Raby Castle, its serene deer park, and enchanting walled gardens in County Durham’s historic estate.
Newcastle Castle
Explore Newcastle Castle and the Black Gate, iconic medieval fortifications offering rich history, stunning views, and immersive exhibitions in the city centre.
Riverside Park
A vibrant riverside park blending historic charm with family-friendly play, gardens, and scenic walks in Chester-le-Street.
The Riverwalk
A vibrant riverside shopping and leisure destination in Durham, blending retail, dining, entertainment, and scenic charm.
Hall Hill Farm
Discover hands-on farm fun and family-friendly adventures at Hall Hill Farm, Durham’s award-winning rural escape.
Central Arcade
Discover Newcastle’s Central Arcade, an Edwardian architectural gem blending historic charm with unique boutique shopping under a stunning glass roof.
Essential places to dine
Turtle Bay Durham
Experience vibrant Caribbean flavours and tropical cocktails by the scenic Riverwalk in Durham’s lively Turtle Bay restaurant.
Blackfriars Restaurant
Dine in history at Blackfriars, Newcastle’s oldest purpose-built dining room serving classic British cuisine with a modern twist.
Fat Hippo Durham
Savor bold, inventive burgers in a quirky multi-level venue on historic Saddler Street, Durham’s heart of casual dining.
Zen
Experience authentic Asian fusion cuisine in a stylish Durham setting, blending traditional flavours with modern flair.
La Spaghettata
Durham’s longest-standing independent Italian restaurant, serving authentic, hearty Italian dishes in a cozy, welcoming setting since 1996.
Broomside park Beefeater
Durham’s go-to grill and pub for hearty British classics, family-friendly dining, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Akarsu Turkish Restaurant & Grill
Authentic Turkish flavors and vibrant dining in the heart of historic Durham with stunning river and landmark views.
Tango Durham
Lively American-style burgers, fresh local produce, and creative cocktails in Durham’s vibrant city centre with riverside terrace dining.
Flat White Kitchen
Experience Durham’s finest coffee and brunch in a cozy 17th-century townhouse with a modern rustic vibe and welcoming atmosphere.
Lebaneat
Experience authentic Lebanese flavors with generous portions and diverse dietary options in the heart of historic Durham.
La Spada Ristorante
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality await you at La Spada Ristorante in Durham’s Pity Me.
Uno Momento
Generous Italian portions and vibrant atmosphere in the heart of historic Durham’s Silver Street.
Zizzi - Durham
Modern Italian dining in the heart of Durham – wood-fired pizzas, fresh pasta, and a relaxed atmosphere just steps from the cathedral.
The Cellar Door
Historic riverside dining with seasonal Modern European cuisine and scenic terraces in the heart of Durham.
Little Sicily
Authentic Sicilian Italian restaurant in Durham offering fresh, affordable dishes in a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Arnison Centre
A comprehensive shopping destination north of Durham city centre, blending major retailers, dining, and easy access in a modern retail park.
Prince Bishops Place
Durham’s vibrant shopping centre blending high street brands, local boutiques, and award-winning facilities in the city’s historic heart.
The Range, Durham
Durham’s all-in-one home and lifestyle store offering furniture, garden, art supplies, and more under one roof with convenient extended hours.
TJ Hughes
Durham’s trusted discount department store offering top brands in home, fashion, and electronics at unbeatable prices.
Collected
A warm, independent bookshop in Durham with curated reads, coffee, cakes, and a lively events programme on The Riverwalk.
WHSmith
Books, stationery, and local treasures in Durham's vibrant Market Place.
The Works
Affordable books, crafts, toys, and stationery in a bright, easy-to-navigate store at Arnison Retail Park, perfect for families, students, and gift shoppers.
The Record Shed Durham
Discover Durham’s vinyl paradise in the heart of Market Place, where music lovers find rare records, retro games, and expert media services.
Whittard of Chelsea Durham
Premium tea, coffee, and gifts in Durham's historic Market Place—where expertise meets elegance.
Cloth
Discover Durham’s hidden basement gem for costumes, vintage clothing, fabrics, and party supplies all in one quirky, creative boutique.
People's Bookshop Durham
Discover Durham’s vibrant radical bookshop, a volunteer-run haven for second-hand books and community stories.
Pears Boutique
Discover stylish day-to-evening fashion and unique gifts at Pears Boutique in Langley Moor, Durham’s charming industrial estate shopping spot.
The Mugwump
A quirky, long-standing Durham boutique filled with unique gifts, women’s fashion, glassware and handmade treasures in a charming, ramshackle building.
Discovering Durham CIC
Empowering Durham’s local producers through unique crafts, gifts, and community-driven retail on historic High Street.
The Georgian Window
Discover stylish ladies’ fashion, unique gifts, and elegant accessories in the heart of Durham at The Georgian Window.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Library
A lively pub and social hub in Durham offering quality drinks, creative vegan dishes, and a quirky, welcoming atmosphere from morning till late.
The Three Bridges
A lively British pub in Durham blending traditional charm with modern dining, drinks, and sports in a welcoming atmosphere.
Swan & Three Cygnets
Traditional riverside pub with a no-technology policy, affordable drinks, and cosy charm beside Durham’s historic Elvet Bridge.
Slug & Lettuce - Durham
Lively cocktail bar and restaurant in Durham’s city center, perfect for social drinks, tasty meals, and vibrant events year-round.
The Half Moon Inn
Historic Tudor pub in Durham offering quality ales, a lively local atmosphere, and a scenic riverside courtyard with cathedral views.
The Fighting Cocks
A lively, affordable pub in Durham’s city centre, perfect for casual drinks and socializing in a friendly, unpretentious setting.
The Shakespeare
A historic and quirky Durham pub famed for its real ales, theatrical roots, and ghostly tales in a cosy 12th-century setting.
The Drunken Duck
A welcoming and lively British pub in Durham's heart, offering quality drinks and a classic atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Ye Old Elm Tree
Historic Durham pub blending centuries-old charm with a lively, welcoming atmosphere and excellent real ales.
Revolution Durham
Dynamic cocktail bar and restaurant in Durham city centre with scenic rooftop views and vibrant nightlife.
The Angel
A cozy and vibrant traditional pub in Durham, offering local ales, hearty meals, and lively events in a welcoming atmosphere.
Dun Cow Durham
Historic Durham pub famed for traditional ales, Tudor Revival interiors, and a warm, authentic local atmosphere.
The Station House
Discover Durham’s artisan real ale gem with a cozy communal vibe and award-winning ciders served straight from the barrel.
Old Toms Gin Bar
Discover Durham’s riverside gem with over 250 gins, artisan boards, and expert Ginologists crafting unforgettable cocktails.
Local Phrases
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- HelloHoway
[ho-way] - GoodbyeTara
[tah-rah] - YesAye
[eye] - NoNah
[nah] - Please/You're welcomePet
[pet] - Thank youCheers
[cheers] - Excuse me/SorryPardon
[pah-dun] - How are you?Howay man?
[ho-way man] - Fine. And you?A'm canny. An' you?
[am canny. an you] - Do you speak English?Divvent ye speak English?
[div-vent ye speak english] - I don't understandA divvent get ye
[a div-vent get ye]
- HelloHoway
-
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseA'd like te see the menu, please
[a'd like te see the menu, please] - I don't eat meatA divvent eat meat
[a div-vent eat meat] - Cheers!Cheers!
[cheers] - I would like to pay, pleaseA'd like te pay, please
[a'd like te pay, please]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseA'd like te see the menu, please
-
- Help!Help!
[help] - Go away!Gan alang!
[gan alang] - Call the Police!Ring the peelers!
[ring the peelers] - Call a doctor!Ring the quack!
[ring the quack] - I'm lostA'm clammed
[am clammed] - I'm illA'm poorly
[am poorly]
- Help!Help!
-
- I'd like to buy...A'd like te buy...
[a'd like te buy] - I'm just lookingA'm just havin' a deek
[am just havin a deek] - How much is it?Hoo much is it?
[hoo much is it] - That's too expensiveThat's canny dear
[that's canny dear] - Can you lower the price?Can ye dee us a deal?
[can ye dee us a deal]
- I'd like to buy...A'd like te buy...
-
- What time is it?Hooay manny is it?
[hooay manny is it] - It's one o'clockIt's yan o'clock
[it's yan o'clock] - Half past (10)Half past ten
[half past ten] - MorningMornin'
[mornin] - AfternoonEftanoon
[eftanoon] - EveningNeev
[neev] - YesterdayYesterdee
[yesterdee] - TodayThe day
[the day] - TomorrowMorn
[morn] - 1Yan
[yan] - 2Tee
[tee] - 3Thur
[thur] - 4Fowr
[fowr] - 5Fiv
[fiv] - 6Sik
[sik] - 7Sev
[sev] - 8Eyt
[eyt] - 9Nin
[nin] - 10Tin
[tin]
- What time is it?Hooay manny is it?
-
- Where's a/the...?Where's a/the...?
[where's a/the] - What's the address?What's the address?
[what's the address] - Can you show me (on the map)?Can you show me (on the map)?
[can you show me (on the map)] - When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
[when's the next (bus)] - A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
[a ticket (to ....)]
- Where's a/the...?Where's a/the...?
History of Durham
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Durham was founded in 995 AD by a group of monks who were carrying the body of St. Cuthbert from Lindisfarne to protect it from Viking raids. According to legend, the saint’s coffin became immovable at a spot on a peninsula formed by the River Wear, leading the monks to interpret this as a sign from God to establish a church there. Thus, Durham was born.
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Construction of Durham Cathedral began in 1093 and was completed in 1133. It is renowned as one of the finest examples of Norman architecture and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The cathedral houses the relics of St. Cuthbert and the Venerable Bede, making it a significant site of Christian pilgrimage.
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Durham Castle was built in 1072 under the orders of William the Conqueror to help secure Norman control over the North of England. The castle has been a residence for the Bishops of Durham for centuries. Since 1837, it has served as part of Durham University, providing accommodations for students.
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The Bishops of Durham, known as the Prince Bishops, wielded both religious and secular power from the 11th to the 19th centuries. They had the authority to mint their own coins, raise armies, and administer justice, making Durham a significant center of power in Northern England.
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Founded by an Act of Parliament in 1832 and granted a Royal Charter in 1837, Durham University is the third oldest in England after Oxford and Cambridge. It has a long history of academic excellence and continues to be a leading institution of higher education.
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During the Industrial Revolution, Durham became known for its coal mining industry. The city and surrounding areas thrived on the extraction of coal, which was essential to the industrial growth of Britain. The legacy of this period is still evident in the architecture and culture of the region.
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Durham played a crucial role during World War II, with its coal mines providing essential fuel for the war effort. The city also hosted military installations and served as a strategic location due to its relative safety from bombings compared to other industrial cities.
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Today, Durham is a vibrant city that blends its rich history with a modern cultural scene. It is a hub of education, thanks to Durham University, and continues to attract visitors from around the world who are drawn to its historic sites, scenic beauty, and academic reputation.
Durham Essentials
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Durham is located in the North East of England. The nearest international airports are Newcastle International Airport and Durham Tees Valley Airport, which are both approximately 30 minutes away by car. From London, you can take a direct train from King's Cross Station to Durham, which takes around 3 hours. National Express and other coach services also operate routes to Durham from various UK cities.
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Durham is a compact city, and many of its attractions are within walking distance. The city has a reliable bus network operated by Arriva North East and Go North East, connecting various parts of the city and surrounding areas. Taxis are readily available, and there is a taxi rank at Durham Railway Station. For those who prefer cycling, there are bike rental services and several cycling routes available.
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The official currency in the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. Contactless payment is common, and ATMs are readily available throughout the city. It's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and market stalls.
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Durham is generally a safe city for tourists. However, it is always wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. Areas around the city centre and the university are typically safe, but exercise caution around the bus and train stations, especially after dark.
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In case of emergency, dial 999 or 112 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The University Hospital of North Durham provides medical services for emergencies. Pharmacies are available throughout the city for minor health issues. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
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Fashion: Do dress appropriately for the weather, which can be unpredictable. Don't wear overly casual clothing when dining in upscale restaurants. Religion: Do be respectful when visiting Durham Cathedral and other religious sites. Remove hats and keep noise to a minimum. Public Transport: Do offer your seat to elderly passengers or those with disabilities. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile and a handshake. Don't use overly familiar terms with strangers. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies like stotties and pease pudding. Don't tip excessively; around 10% is customary in restaurants.
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To experience Durham like a local, visit the Durham Indoor Market for fresh produce and unique crafts. Take a walk along the River Wear for picturesque views of the cathedral and the castle. Engage with locals at one of the many pubs, where you can enjoy traditional British ales. Don't miss the annual Durham Miners' Gala, a vibrant celebration of the city's mining heritage.
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