Crook Hall Gardens: A Historic Green Oasis in Durham
Explore Durham’s historic Crook Hall Gardens, a tranquil National Trust haven blending medieval heritage with stunning gardens and city views.
Crook Hall Gardens, nestled in Durham, is a National Trust property featuring a Grade I listed medieval hall surrounded by 10 acres of beautifully interlinked gardens. Visitors can explore tranquil walled gardens, a maze, an orchard, and a wildlife-rich moat pool, all offering stunning views of Durham Cathedral. The Garden Gate Café provides refreshments in a charming setting, and the site welcomes dogs on short leads. Open daily from 10am to 5pm until early November, it is a serene escape close to the city centre.
A brief summary to National Trust - Crook Hall Gardens
- Frankland Ln, Sidegate, Durham, Durham, DH1 5SZ, GB
- +441913831832
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekday mornings to enjoy a quieter, more peaceful garden experience.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy on the many benches and seating areas scattered throughout the gardens.
- Don’t miss browsing the second-hand bookshop in the Jacobean Room, open daily until mid-afternoon.
- Dogs on short leads are welcome in the gardens and café, but only assistance dogs are allowed inside the medieval hall.
- Check for seasonal events like guided tours and floral workshops to enrich your visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Durham Station, take a 15-20 minute walk following signs towards the riverside and Crook Hall Gardens. Frequent local buses serve stops near the city centre, from which the gardens are a 10-15 minute walk. The route is mostly flat but includes some cobbled streets.
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Car
Drive to Crook Hall Gardens via Frankland Lane, where a pay-and-display car park is available. Parking costs £3 for up to 3 hours for non-National Trust members; members park free. Blue Badge spaces are provided. Note the car park is for garden visitors only.
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Walking
The gardens are a pleasant 15-minute walk from Durham city centre, suitable for most fitness levels. Paths near the gardens can be narrow and uneven; wheelchair users should note that some garden areas have limited access.
National Trust - Crook Hall Gardens location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about National Trust - Crook Hall Gardens
A Medieval Heritage Amidst Lush Gardens
Crook Hall Gardens is anchored by Crook Hall, a Grade I listed medieval building that embodies centuries of architectural evolution. The hall itself merges into a Jacobean manor house and a Georgian townhouse, reflecting the layered history of the site. This historic backdrop enriches the gardens, providing a unique setting where visitors can appreciate both natural beauty and heritage. The medieval hall is the only part of the building open to visitors, offering a glimpse into the grandeur and domestic life of past eras.Gardens of Distinct Character and Tranquility
Spanning approximately 10 acres, the gardens are a series of interlinking spaces, each with its own style and atmosphere. Highlights include a secret walled garden, a hedge maze, a cottage garden, an orchard bursting with seasonal blooms, and a wildlife-rich moat pool teeming with frogs, newts, and dragonflies. The gardens feature winding paths, tranquil seating areas, and sheltered spots perfect for contemplation. From several vantage points, visitors enjoy magnificent views of Durham city and its iconic cathedral, reinforcing the gardens’ proximity to the urban heart.The Garden Gate Café and Visitor Amenities
The Garden Gate Café, located at the entrance, offers a welcoming space to enjoy hot and cold drinks, light bites, cakes, and ice cream. Seating is available both indoors and on an outdoor terrace, making it a pleasant spot to relax after exploring the gardens. The café is dog-friendly, welcoming dogs on short leads, and includes accessible toilets with baby changing facilities. Additionally, a second-hand bookshop housed in the Jacobean Room provides a charming browsing experience, with proceeds supporting garden conservation.Access, Opening Times, and Visitor Experience
Crook Hall Gardens is open daily from 10am to 5pm until early November, then weekends only with reduced hours through mid-December. Admission is £8 for adults and £4 for children, with free entry for National Trust members. The gardens are wheelchair accessible in parts, with level access from the car park; however, some paths are narrow or uneven. Dogs on short leads are welcome in the gardens and café, though only assistance dogs are permitted inside the medieval hall. The site is a short 15-minute walk from Durham city centre, making it an easily reachable green retreat.Seasonal Highlights and Community Engagement
Throughout the year, Crook Hall Gardens showcases seasonal changes with spectacular floral displays, including roses, magnolias, phlox, oriental poppies, and ox-eye daisies. The orchard bursts into blossom in spring, while the moat pool supports diverse wildlife. The National Trust organizes free guided tours on Wednesdays exploring the gardens’ history and literary connections, and expert volunteers share gardening knowledge on Fridays. Seasonal events such as floral workshops and festive illuminations add to the vibrant visitor experience.A Serene Escape Near Durham’s Historic Core
Set just outside Durham’s World Heritage Site, Crook Hall Gardens offers a peaceful sanctuary blending cultural heritage with natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy contemplative moments on benches scattered throughout the gardens, explore the maze, or simply soak in the scenic views of the city and cathedral. This green oasis invites return visits to witness the changing seasons and participate in community activities, making it a cherished part of Durham’s landscape.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Durham Town Hall
0.5 km
Victorian civic landmark hosting culture, heritage, and community in Durham's historic heart.
Market place
0.5 km
Medieval marketplace meets Victorian grandeur—Durham's beating heart of commerce, culture, and community.
Durham British Israel Fellowship
0.7 km
Discover the Durham British Israel Fellowship: A historical church offering community spirit, stunning architecture, and a glimpse into Durham's rich heritage.
Framwellgate Bridge
0.7 km
Durham’s oldest stone bridge, a medieval marvel offering iconic views of the cathedral and river, steeped in history and timeless charm.
Durham Obelisk
0.8 km
A hidden 90-foot sandstone tower concealed by woodland, marking Durham's forgotten astronomical heritage.
Durham Viaduct
0.8 km
A majestic Victorian railway viaduct soaring over Durham’s River Wear, blending engineering excellence with stunning historic city views.
Durham
1.0 km
Explore Durham Cathedral, a Norman architectural masterpiece and spiritual sanctuary with stunning views, sacred relics, and rich medieval heritage.
Durham Band Stand
1.0 km
A peaceful riverside bandstand with one of Durham’s most iconic cathedral views, perfect for quiet moments and photography by 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.
Kathedra
1.2 km
Explore the Kathedra in Durham, a stunning gothic stone chair by the river, perfect for history lovers and photography enthusiasts alike.
Maiden Castle Earthwork
1.6 km
Explore Durham’s ancient Iron Age promontory fort with its impressive earthworks nestled in tranquil woodland overlooking the River Wear.
Ludworth Tower
8.3 km
A rare 15th-century pele tower standing as a testament to medieval border fortifications
The High Level Bridge
20.7 km
A pioneering double-deck Victorian bridge uniting rail and road across the River Tyne, symbolizing Newcastle’s industrial heritage.
Tyne Bridge
20.8 km
An iconic steel arch bridge spanning the River Tyne, symbolising NewcastleGateshead’s industrial heritage and modern spirit.
Quayside
20.8 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
The Jubilee Walk
0.5 km
Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of The Jubilee Walk in Aykley Heads, Durham, a perfect escape for nature lovers and families alike.
Indoor Market
0.5 km
Discover Durham Market Hall, a lively Victorian indoor market where history, local crafts, and vibrant community spirit come together under one roof.
Durham Market Hall
0.5 km
Victorian market hall where 40+ independent traders celebrate Durham's heritage and local character.
The House of Eden
0.5 km
Discover handmade treasures and personalised gifts in this charming boutique nestled in Durham Market Hall’s vibrant heart.
Durham Pointers
0.5 km
Your welcoming gateway to explore Durham’s rich heritage, cultural events, and local insights from the heart of Market Place.
The Vintage Shop
0.5 km
Discover timeless treasures and vintage charm in the heart of Durham at The Vintage Shop in Market Tavern.
Dun Holm House - Student Accommodation Durham
0.6 km
Modern riverside student living in Durham with top amenities, vibrant community, and unbeatable access to university and city life.
Umbrella alley
0.6 km
A vibrant canopy of colorful umbrellas brightening Durham’s Millburngate Shopping Centre with artful charm and urban whimsy.
Wharton Park
0.6 km
Hilltop sanctuary with cathedral views, playgrounds, and cultural events—Durham's beloved green escape.
The Riverwalk
0.6 km
A vibrant riverside shopping and leisure destination in Durham, blending retail, dining, entertainment, and scenic charm.
Elvet Waterside
0.7 km
Scenic riverside charm meets historic Durham city life at Elvet Waterside, a tranquil urban retreat by the iconic Elvet Bridge.
Elvet Bridge
0.7 km
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.
Escape Rooms Durham
0.7 km
Immersive puzzle adventures in Durham's historic centre—from spy missions to gothic mysteries.
Aykley Wood Nature Reserve
0.7 km
Tranquil ancient woodland near Durham offering scenic city views, diverse wildlife, and peaceful walking trails year-round.
No 59 Old Elvet
0.7 km
An intimate evening bistro on historic Old Elvet street, blending local heritage with contemporary dining in the heart of Durham.
Essential places to dine
Collage Restaurant
0.3 km
A modern, relaxed hotel restaurant in Durham serving hearty British breakfasts and classic dinner dishes in a bright, contemporary setting.
Rio Brazilian Steakhouse
0.4 km
Authentic Brazilian Churrasco with tableside carving, jungle-inspired ambience, and award-winning service in Durham city centre.
Bistro Italiano
0.4 km
Authentic Italian flavors served with warmth and charm in the heart of Durham’s historic district.
ASK Italian
0.4 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors with a modern twist in Durham’s vibrant city centre, featuring vegan options and local Durham Gin.
Tia’s
0.4 km
Authentic Mexican and Mediterranean flavors with a dedicated vegan menu and friendly service in the heart of Durham.
Spice Lounge
0.5 km
Award-winning Indian cuisine with authentic homestyle curries in Durham’s charming Market Place.
Turtle Bay Durham
0.5 km
Experience vibrant Caribbean flavours and tropical cocktails by the scenic Riverwalk in Durham’s lively Turtle Bay restaurant.
Pizza Punks Durham
0.5 km
Unleash your creativity with unlimited toppings on award-winning sourdough pizzas in a vibrant riverside setting at Pizza Punks Durham.
Estabulo Rodizio Bar & Grill - Durham
0.6 km
Savor unlimited flame-grilled Brazilian meats carved tableside in a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere on Durham’s scenic River Walk.
Uno Momento
0.6 km
Generous Italian portions and vibrant atmosphere in the heart of historic Durham’s Silver Street.
The Food Pit
0.6 km
Durham’s first street food hall offering diverse global flavors, local vendors, and stunning views of the Castle and Cathedral in a lively, casual setting.
The Boat Club & Tomahawk Steakhouse
0.6 km
Discover exquisite steaks and crafted cocktails at The Boat Club & Tomahawk Steakhouse on Elvet Riverside - where taste meets tranquility.
Tapas Factory
0.6 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and Mediterranean flavors in Durham's vibrant city center.
PESTO ITALIANO
0.6 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine with warm hospitality in the heart of historic Durham at Pesto Italiano.
Gussto Tapas Bar - Durham
0.6 km
Authentic Spanish tapas in a historic riverside setting at the heart of Durham.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Gateway World Shop
0.5 km
A charming craft shop in Durham’s historic gateway, offering fair trade pottery, jewellery, textiles, and handmade gifts from around the world.
The Record Shed Durham
0.5 km
Discover Durham’s vinyl paradise in the heart of Market Place, where music lovers find rare records, retro games, and expert media services.
WHSmith
0.6 km
Books, stationery, and local treasures in Durham's vibrant Market Place.
Prince Bishops Place
0.6 km
Durham’s vibrant shopping centre blending high street brands, local boutiques, and award-winning facilities in the city’s historic heart.
TJ Hughes
0.6 km
Durham’s trusted discount department store offering top brands in home, fashion, and electronics at unbeatable prices.
Discovering Durham CIC
0.6 km
Empowering Durham’s local producers through unique crafts, gifts, and community-driven retail on historic High Street.
Whittard of Chelsea Durham
0.6 km
Premium tea, coffee, and gifts in Durham's historic Market Place—where expertise meets elegance.
Elvet & Bailey
0.6 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and local artisan treasures at Elvet & Bailey, Durham’s beloved boutique in Prince Bishops Shopping Centre.
BEAR BOTTOM
0.6 km
Discover unique gifts, collectibles, and local craftsmanship at Bear Bottom, Durham’s beloved indoor market shop.
The Boathouse
0.6 km
Discover unique clothing and accessories at The Boathouse in Durham, a charming shop showcasing local designs and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Edinburgh Woollen Mill
0.6 km
Discover timeless Scottish knitwear and heritage fabrics at The Edinburgh Woollen Mill in Durham’s historic Saddler Street.
People's Bookshop Durham
0.6 km
Discover Durham’s vibrant radical bookshop, a volunteer-run haven for second-hand books and community stories.
Oxfam Shop
0.6 km
Discover pre-loved books, music, and more at Durham’s Oxfam Shop—where every purchase supports global poverty relief and sustainability.
Rohan Durham - Outdoor Clothing & Walking Gear
0.6 km
Discover Rohan Durham, your premier destination for high-quality outdoor clothing and gear, perfect for every adventurer in the beautiful English countryside.
Waceland Durham
0.6 km
Discover handpicked vintage gems and streetwear essentials in a family-run boutique at the heart of Durham’s Saddler Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Slug & Lettuce - Durham
0.4 km
Lively cocktail bar and restaurant in Durham’s city center, perfect for social drinks, tasty meals, and vibrant events year-round.
Champagne Bar
0.4 km
Sophisticated vintage champagnes and crafted cocktails in Durham’s vibrant Walkergate, blending chic style with welcoming warmth.
The Drunken Duck
0.4 km
A welcoming and lively British pub in Durham's heart, offering quality drinks and a classic atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
The Woodman Inn - Durham
0.6 km
A traditional Durham pub with a spacious beer garden, diverse drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Blue Eye
0.6 km
Durham’s stylish cocktail bar with creative drinks, lively vibes, and a welcoming atmosphere on historic Elvet Bridge.
Tin Of Sardines Gin Bar - Durham
0.6 km
Discover Durham’s tiniest gin bar with a colossal selection, expert service, and an intimate, unforgettable atmosphere on Elvet Bridge.
Osbournes
0.7 km
A vibrant, intimate bar and club in Durham known for its lively music nights, extensive gin selection, and welcoming local vibe.
The Shakespeare
0.7 km
A historic and quirky Durham pub famed for its real ales, theatrical roots, and ghostly tales in a cosy 12th-century setting.
The Three Bridges
0.7 km
A lively British pub in Durham blending traditional charm with modern dining, drinks, and sports in a welcoming atmosphere.
Swan & Three Cygnets
0.7 km
Traditional riverside pub with a no-technology policy, affordable drinks, and cosy charm beside Durham’s historic Elvet Bridge.
Old Toms Gin Bar
0.7 km
Discover Durham’s riverside gem with over 250 gins, artisan boards, and expert Ginologists crafting unforgettable cocktails.
Babylon Durham
0.7 km
A buzzing, budget-friendly bar and nightclub in Durham offering lively nights, packed dance floors, and a true local nightlife experience.
The Library
0.7 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 Station House
0.7 km
Discover Durham’s artisan real ale gem with a cozy communal vibe and award-winning ciders served straight from the barrel.
33 Durham
0.7 km
Discover 33 Durham, a cozy speakeasy cocktail bar blending vintage charm with expertly crafted drinks in the heart of Durham city.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Bohemia Durham
0.4 km
Bohemia Durham pulses with vibrant nightlife energy, offering dynamic music and a lively social scene in the heart of historic Durham.
Fabio's Bar
0.6 km
Durham’s lively student nightclub and live music bar above the iconic La Spaghettata, buzzing with events and authentic local charm.
Jimmy Allens
0.6 km
Dive into Durham’s iconic vaulted nightclub where free entry, cheap drinks, and lively crowds create unforgettable nights beneath Elvet Bridge.
Klute
0.7 km
Durham’s iconic, unapologetically rough nightclub famed for nostalgic beats, cheap drinks, and a legendary student party atmosphere.
Loft Durham
0.7 km
Discover Loft Durham, the ultimate nightlife destination offering vibrant music, energetic dancing, and a chic atmosphere in the heart of Durham.
7even Nightclub
18.1 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)
20.8 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant underground gay nightclub scene at Warehouse Night Club (SR44), where eclectic music and lively parties come alive.
Digital
20.9 km
Experience cutting-edge nightlife with superior sound and vibrant energy at Digital, Newcastle’s premier clubbing destination in Times Square.
Powerhouse
21.0 km
Newcastle’s iconic four-floor nightclub blending rich LGBTQ+ history with vibrant, inclusive nightlife and dynamic music scenes.
TheCUT Newcastle
21.0 km
Discover Newcastle’s vibrant alternative nightclub with themed indie, rock, and disco nights in a cozy, unpretentious setting.
Tup Tup Palace
21.0 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
21.1 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at The Social Club, where music, cocktails, and dancing come alive until the early hours.
Bohemia Newcastle
21.1 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
21.1 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
21.1 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
- Tranquil
- Relaxing
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Heritage Neighborhoods
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
