Elvet Bridge, Durham
A medieval stone arch bridge over the River Wear, now a lively pedestrian walkway with cafes, restaurants and stunning views of Durham Cathedral and the city’s dramatic river gorge.
Elvet Bridge is a medieval stone arch bridge spanning the River Wear in Durham, linking the historic peninsula with the Elvet area. Dating back to the 12th century, it’s a Grade I listed structure that once carried a gatehouse, chapels, and even a prison. Now pedestrianised, it’s a scenic riverside walkway lined with cafes and restaurants, offering stunning views of Durham Cathedral and the surrounding cliffs. The bridge’s layered history, from Prince Bishop ambitions to hidden arches and 18th-century floods, makes it a living piece of the city’s story.
A brief summary to Elvet Bridge
- Elvet Bridge, Durham, Durham, GB
- +441913868006
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the busiest crowds and catch the best light for photos of the cathedral and river.
- Look closely at the stonework, especially near the eastern end, to spot remnants of the old prison bars and the visible join between medieval and 19th-century masonry.
- Walk down to the riverbanks on the south side to see the surviving walls of St Andrew’s Chapel and get a dramatic low-angle view of the bridge’s arches.
- Combine your visit with a riverside walk to the Count’s House and along the Wear to enjoy Durham’s scenery from multiple perspectives.
- Check opening times for the cafes and restaurants on the bridge, as they vary, especially on weekdays and outside peak season.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
On foot from Durham city centre
From the Market Place or Palace Green, follow signs towards Elvet Bridge; the walk takes about 5–10 minutes along well-paved, level streets. The bridge is fully accessible on foot and connects directly to the riverside paths.
-
From Durham railway station
From Durham station, walk towards the city centre along North Road and then South Street; the bridge is about 15–20 minutes away on foot, mostly on flat, paved routes with clear signage.
-
By bus
Several local bus routes stop near the Market Place or near the Prince Bishops car park; from there it’s a 5–10 minute walk to the bridge along level, pedestrian-friendly streets.
-
By car
Drive to the Prince Bishops car park in the city centre; from there, Elvet Bridge is a short, level walk of about 3–5 minutes along well-maintained pedestrian paths.
Elvet Bridge location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Elvet Bridge
A Bridge Forged by Prince Bishops
Elvet Bridge began life in the 1160s under Bishop Hugh de Puiset, a powerful Prince Bishop who shaped much of medieval Durham. His vision extended beyond the cathedral: he planned a new borough at Elvet to house merchants and boost the city’s economy. The bridge was the vital link, connecting this commercial district with the religious and administrative heart on the peninsula. Construction dragged on for decades, so long that the church was still granting indulgences to donors in the 1220s. When finally completed, it was known as the ‘New Bridge’ to distinguish it from the older Framwellgate Bridge downstream, a sign of its importance in the city’s growth.Medieval Arches and Hidden Stories
What you see today is a bridge of two eras. Only one of the ten visible arches dates from the late 12th century; the rest are 13th-century rebuilds. In the Middle Ages, the bridge was more than a crossing: it was a street lined with buildings, guarded by a gate and towers. At each end stood chapels – St James’ and St Andrew’s – places of worship that later gave way to more secular uses. St James’ was converted into a House of Correction (prison) in 1632, and fragments of its iron bars can still be spotted in the stonework. Rumours of ‘hidden’ arches beneath the streets persist, though only ten are clearly visible today.Floods, Widening and Survival
Elvet Bridge has weathered centuries of change and disaster. A great flood in 1771 destroyed three of its central arches, which were later rebuilt. In the early 19th century, as Durham grew with the industrial age, the bridge was dramatically widened on its upstream side, doubling its width and leaving a clear seam between the original medieval masonry and the 1804–05 stonework. This visible join is a physical record of the city’s evolution. Despite these transformations, the bridge has remained a key crossing, now closed to vehicles and reserved for pedestrians, cyclists and the occasional market stall.Life on the Bridge Today
Today, Elvet Bridge is a vibrant public space, lined with cafes, restaurants and bars that spill out onto its broadened deck. It’s a natural meeting point, a place to pause and take in the dramatic views of Durham Cathedral perched on its rocky outcrop, the deep river gorge and the wooded banks of the Wear. From the bridge you can easily reach the riverside paths, the Count’s House and the city centre, making it both a thoroughfare and a destination in its own right. Its mix of ancient stonework and modern life gives it a unique, lived-in character that feels central to Durham’s identity.Views, Walks and Atmosphere
Standing on Elvet Bridge, the city unfolds in layers: the soaring cathedral, the cobbled lanes of the peninsula, the green slopes of the riverbanks and the modern buildings of Elvet. The bridge offers some of the best elevated views of Durham’s UNESCO World Heritage skyline, especially at sunrise or dusk when the stone glows in the low light. It’s equally atmospheric on a misty morning or a rainy afternoon, when the river swirls beneath the arches and the city feels wrapped in history. Whether you’re crossing quickly or lingering over coffee, the bridge invites you to slow down and absorb the sense of place that makes Durham so distinctive.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Durham Town Hall
0.2 km
Victorian civic landmark hosting culture, heritage, and community in Durham's historic heart.
Market place
0.2 km
Medieval marketplace meets Victorian grandeur—Durham's beating heart of commerce, culture, and community.
Framwellgate Bridge
0.3 km
Durham’s oldest stone bridge, a medieval marvel offering iconic views of the cathedral and river, steeped in history and timeless charm.
Durham British Israel Fellowship
0.5 km
Discover the Durham British Israel Fellowship: A historical church offering community spirit, stunning architecture, and a glimpse into Durham's rich heritage.
Kathedra
0.6 km
Explore the Kathedra in Durham, a stunning gothic stone chair by the river, perfect for history lovers and photography enthusiasts alike.
Durham Band Stand
0.7 km
A peaceful riverside bandstand with one of Durham’s most iconic cathedral views, perfect for quiet moments and photography by the River Wear.
Durham Viaduct
0.7 km
A majestic Victorian railway viaduct soaring over Durham’s River Wear, blending engineering excellence with stunning historic city views.
Durham
0.7 km
Explore Durham Cathedral, a Norman architectural masterpiece and spiritual sanctuary with stunning views, sacred relics, and rich medieval heritage.
Durham Obelisk
1.0 km
A hidden 90-foot sandstone tower concealed by woodland, marking Durham's forgotten astronomical heritage.
Maiden Castle Earthwork
1.1 km
Explore Durham’s ancient Iron Age promontory fort with its impressive earthworks nestled in tranquil woodland overlooking the River Wear.
Maiden's Bower
1.1 km
Explore Maiden's Bower, a serene Bronze Age cairn nestled in Durham's Flass Vale, where ancient history meets tranquil woodland beauty.
Ludworth Tower
8.1 km
A rare 15th-century pele tower standing as a testament to medieval border fortifications
The High Level Bridge
21.4 km
A pioneering double-deck Victorian bridge uniting rail and road across the River Tyne, symbolizing Newcastle’s industrial heritage.
Tyne Bridge
21.5 km
An iconic steel arch bridge spanning the River Tyne, symbolising NewcastleGateshead’s industrial heritage and modern spirit.
Quayside
21.5 km
Quayside is a dynamic riverside district where iconic bridges meet vibrant culture, blending industrial heritage with modern art and lively waterfront life.
Unmissable attractions to see
Escape Rooms Durham
0.1 km
Immersive puzzle adventures in Durham's historic centre—from spy missions to gothic mysteries.
Umbrella alley
0.1 km
A vibrant canopy of colorful umbrellas brightening Durham’s Millburngate Shopping Centre with artful charm and urban whimsy.
Department of History • Durham University
0.1 km
Explore history where Durham’s rich past meets vibrant academic excellence at the University’s historic North Bailey location.
No 59 Old Elvet
0.1 km
An intimate evening bistro on historic Old Elvet street, blending local heritage with contemporary dining in the heart of Durham.
Elvet Waterside
0.2 km
Scenic riverside charm meets historic Durham city life at Elvet Waterside, a tranquil urban retreat by the iconic Elvet Bridge.
Durham Big Sing
0.2 km
A joyful community choral event in Durham celebrating inclusive singing and vibrant local music culture.
Durham Castle
0.2 km
Explore over 1000 years of history in this Norman castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and vibrant university residence in the heart of Durham.
Durham Market Hall
0.2 km
Victorian market hall where 40+ independent traders celebrate Durham's heritage and local character.
Durham Museum
0.2 km
Medieval heritage and local history in the heart of historic Durham, near the cathedral.
The House of Eden
0.2 km
Discover handmade treasures and personalised gifts in this charming boutique nestled in Durham Market Hall’s vibrant heart.
Durham Pointers
0.2 km
Your welcoming gateway to explore Durham’s rich heritage, cultural events, and local insights from the heart of Market Place.
The Vintage Shop
0.2 km
Discover timeless treasures and vintage charm in the heart of Durham at The Vintage Shop in Market Tavern.
Department of Classics and Ancient History • Durham University
0.2 km
Classical scholarship in a medieval setting: Durham's premier centre for ancient languages, philosophy, and Mediterranean studies.
Indoor Market
0.2 km
Discover Durham Market Hall, a lively Victorian indoor market where history, local crafts, and vibrant community spirit come together under one roof.
World Heritage Site Visitor Centre
0.2 km
Free gateway to understanding Durham's UNESCO World Heritage Site and medieval treasures
Essential places to dine
Notch Durham
0.0 km
Slow-cooked American barbecue and craft cocktails in Durham's vibrant city centre.
The Boat Club & Tomahawk Steakhouse
0.0 km
Discover exquisite steaks and crafted cocktails at The Boat Club & Tomahawk Steakhouse on Elvet Riverside - where taste meets tranquility.
19Twenty Bar & Grill
0.1 km
Modern grill and cocktail bar on Durham’s Elvet Bridge, serving gourmet burgers and steaks with scenic riverside views.
Restaurant 17
0.1 km
Boutique dining below Elvet Bridge offering world-inspired dishes in an intimate, candlelit setting with fresh local ingredients.
Zizzi - Durham
0.1 km
Modern Italian dining in the heart of Durham – wood-fired pizzas, fresh pasta, and a relaxed atmosphere just steps from the cathedral.
Tango Durham
0.1 km
Lively American-style burgers, fresh local produce, and creative cocktails in Durham’s vibrant city centre with riverside terrace dining.
The Cellar Door
0.1 km
Historic riverside dining with seasonal Modern European cuisine and scenic terraces in the heart of Durham.
Flat White Kitchen
0.1 km
Experience Durham’s finest coffee and brunch in a cozy 17th-century townhouse with a modern rustic vibe and welcoming atmosphere.
Fat Hippo Durham
0.1 km
Savor bold, inventive burgers in a quirky multi-level venue on historic Saddler Street, Durham’s heart of casual dining.
Tapas Factory
0.1 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and Mediterranean flavors in Durham's vibrant city center.
Turkish Kitchen Meze and grill
0.1 km
Authentic Turkish grilling and meze in Durham's vibrant city centre, where tradition meets modern hospitality.
La Spaghettata
0.1 km
Durham’s longest-standing independent Italian restaurant, serving authentic, hearty Italian dishes in a cozy, welcoming setting since 1996.
Lebaneat
0.1 km
Experience authentic Lebanese flavors with generous portions and diverse dietary options in the heart of historic Durham.
Uno Momento
0.2 km
Generous Italian portions and vibrant atmosphere in the heart of historic Durham’s Silver Street.
PESTO ITALIANO
0.2 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with warm hospitality in the heart of historic Durham at Pesto Italiano.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Oxfam Shop
0.1 km
Discover pre-loved books, music, and more at Durham’s Oxfam Shop—where every purchase supports global poverty relief and sustainability.
Circle Vintage Durham
0.1 km
Discover Durham’s largest curated vintage clothing collection in a charming historic boutique on Saddler Street.
Rohan Durham - Outdoor Clothing & Walking Gear
0.1 km
Discover Rohan Durham, your premier destination for high-quality outdoor clothing and gear, perfect for every adventurer in the beautiful English countryside.
The Mugwump
0.1 km
Discover Durham’s iconic boutique blending vintage fashion, unique gifts, and local art in a charming historic setting.
Waceland Durham
0.1 km
Discover handpicked vintage gems and streetwear essentials in a family-run boutique at the heart of Durham’s Saddler Street.
TJ Hughes
0.1 km
Durham’s trusted discount department store offering top brands in home, fashion, and electronics at unbeatable prices.
Discovering Durham CIC
0.1 km
Empowering Durham’s local producers through unique crafts, gifts, and community-driven retail on historic High Street.
Prince Bishops Place
0.1 km
Durham’s vibrant shopping centre blending high street brands, local boutiques, and award-winning facilities in the city’s historic heart.
Elvet & Bailey
0.1 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and local artisan treasures at Elvet & Bailey, Durham’s beloved boutique in Prince Bishops Shopping Centre.
The Georgian Window
0.1 km
Discover stylish ladies’ fashion, unique gifts, and elegant accessories in the heart of Durham at The Georgian Window.
Italian Clothes Room Inside Georgian Window
0.1 km
Discover elegant Italian fashion in Durham’s historic Georgian window boutique, blending timeless style with personalized service.
7 Day Store
0.1 km
Discover authentic Asian flavors and ingredients at Durham’s vibrant 7 Day Store, open daily for your culinary adventures.
The Boathouse
0.1 km
Discover unique clothing and accessories at The Boathouse in Durham, a charming shop showcasing local designs and a welcoming atmosphere.
People's Bookshop Durham
0.1 km
Discover Durham’s vibrant radical bookshop, a volunteer-run haven for second-hand books and community stories.
BEAR BOTTOM
0.1 km
Discover unique gifts, collectibles, and local craftsmanship at Bear Bottom, Durham’s beloved indoor market shop.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Swan & Three Cygnets
0.1 km
Traditional riverside pub with a no-technology policy, affordable drinks, and cosy charm beside Durham’s historic Elvet Bridge.
Tin Of Sardines Gin Bar - Durham
0.1 km
Discover Durham’s tiniest gin bar with a colossal selection, expert service, and an intimate, unforgettable atmosphere on Elvet Bridge.
Osbournes
0.1 km
A vibrant, intimate bar and club in Durham known for its lively music nights, extensive gin selection, and welcoming local vibe.
The Library
0.1 km
A lively pub and social hub in Durham offering quality drinks, creative vegan dishes, and a quirky, welcoming atmosphere from morning till late.
The Half Moon Inn
0.1 km
Historic Tudor pub on Durham’s riverside offering award-winning ales, scenic courtyard views, and a warm local atmosphere.
Blue Eye
0.1 km
Durham’s stylish cocktail bar with creative drinks, lively vibes, and a welcoming atmosphere on historic Elvet Bridge.
The Shakespeare
0.1 km
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
0.2 km
A welcoming and lively British pub in Durham's heart, offering quality drinks and a classic atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Champagne Bar
0.3 km
Sophisticated vintage champagnes and crafted cocktails in Durham’s vibrant Walkergate, blending chic style with welcoming warmth.
Dun Cow Durham
0.3 km
Historic Durham pub famed for traditional ales, Tudor Revival interiors, and a warm, authentic local atmosphere.
Slug & Lettuce - Durham
0.3 km
Lively cocktail bar and restaurant in Durham’s city center, perfect for social drinks, tasty meals, and vibrant events year-round.
Old Toms Gin Bar
0.3 km
Discover Durham’s riverside gem with over 250 gins, artisan boards, and expert Ginologists crafting unforgettable cocktails.
The Fighting Cocks
0.4 km
A lively, affordable pub in Durham’s city centre, perfect for casual drinks and socializing in a friendly, unpretentious setting.
24 North Bailey Club
0.4 km
Durham students’ beloved late-night bar and social club, blending historic charm with lively events on the iconic North Bailey.
The Three Bridges
0.4 km
A lively British pub in Durham blending traditional charm with modern dining, drinks, and sports in a welcoming atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Klute
0.0 km
Durham’s iconic, unapologetically rough nightclub famed for nostalgic beats, cheap drinks, and a legendary student party atmosphere.
Jimmy Allens
0.1 km
Dive into Durham’s iconic vaulted nightclub where free entry, cheap drinks, and lively crowds create unforgettable nights beneath Elvet Bridge.
Fabio's Bar
0.1 km
Durham’s lively student nightclub and live music bar above the iconic La Spaghettata, buzzing with events and authentic local charm.
Bohemia Durham
0.3 km
Bohemia Durham pulses with vibrant nightlife energy, offering dynamic music and a lively social scene in the heart of historic Durham.
Loft Durham
0.5 km
Discover Loft Durham, the ultimate nightlife destination offering vibrant music, energetic dancing, and a chic atmosphere in the heart of Durham.
7even Nightclub
18.6 km
Sunderland’s alternative nightclub with two floors of indie, soul, and rock music, hosting themed parties and vibrant late-night events.
Warehouse Night Club(SR44)
21.5 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant underground gay nightclub scene at Warehouse Night Club (SR44), where eclectic music and lively parties come alive.
Digital
21.5 km
Experience cutting-edge nightlife with superior sound and vibrant energy at Digital, Newcastle’s premier clubbing destination in Times Square.
Powerhouse
21.6 km
Newcastle’s iconic four-floor nightclub blending rich LGBTQ+ history with vibrant, inclusive nightlife and dynamic music scenes.
TheCUT Newcastle
21.7 km
Discover Newcastle’s vibrant alternative nightclub with themed indie, rock, and disco nights in a cozy, unpretentious setting.
Tup Tup Palace
21.7 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife in style at Tup Tup Palace, a luxurious club blending exotic décor with pulsating beats until the early hours.
The Social Club
21.7 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at The Social Club, where music, cocktails, and dancing come alive until the early hours.
Bohemia Newcastle
21.7 km
Neon-lit cocktail bar and compact club with graffiti murals, a mezzanine dance space and a sheltered courtyard terrace for late-night socialising.
TROPICANA NEWCASTLE
21.8 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at Tropicana, a lively nightclub blending cocktail sophistication with energetic club beats in the city’s heart.
Loca Loca | Newcastle
21.8 km
A compact, neon-lit nightclub on Groat Market serving late-night dance, chart and urban sets in an intimate city-centre setting.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Skyline
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Myth & Legends
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
