Oriental Museum
Britain's premier North East museum of Asian and North African art and archaeology, offering free admission and world-class collections.
The Oriental Museum at Durham University is the only museum in the North East dedicated exclusively to art and archaeology from Asia and North Africa. Housing one of Britain's most important Chinese collections outside London alongside exceptional Egyptian, Japanese, Korean, and Middle Eastern artifacts, this free-admission museum offers an immersive journey through thousands of years of cultural heritage. Located on Elvet Hill, the museum features interactive exhibits, detailed signage, and thoughtfully curated displays that appeal to both serious scholars and casual visitors.
A brief summary to Oriental Museum
- Elvet Hill Rd, South Rd, Durham, DH1 3TH, GB
- +441913345691
- Visit website
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-7 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-5 pm
- Sunday 12 pm-5 pm
Local tips
- Allow at least two to three hours for your visit, or longer if you have specific interests. The museum's depth rewards unhurried exploration, and interactive exhibits encourage extended engagement.
- Visit on Thursday evenings when the museum stays open until 19:00 for a potentially quieter experience, or check for twilight opening events on the 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month from April onwards.
- Read the detailed signage accompanying each artifact—the comprehensive descriptions significantly enhance understanding and appreciation of the collections.
- Arrive early in the day if you prefer a less crowded experience, as afternoon hours tend to see more visitors, particularly on weekends.
- Check the museum's website or contact them directly before visiting to confirm current opening hours and inquire about special exhibitions or educational events that may be running during your visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Walking from Durham City Centre
A pleasant walk of approximately 20 to 30 minutes from Durham's city center to Elvet Hill. The route is generally well-signposted and takes you through the university campus. This option is free and allows you to experience the surrounding area.
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Local Bus from Durham Train Station
From Durham Train Station, local buses serve the university campus and Elvet Hill area. Journey time is typically 10 to 15 minutes depending on the service and traffic. Bus fares are approximately £1.50 to £2.50 per journey. Check local transport schedules for current routes and frequencies.
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Taxi or Ride-Share from Durham Train Station
Taxis and ride-share services are available from Durham Train Station to the museum on Elvet Hill. Journey time is approximately 10 to 15 minutes depending on traffic conditions. Typical fares range from £8 to £15. This option provides direct transport without navigating public schedules.
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University Campus Parking
Limited parking is available on Durham University's campus near Elvet Hill. Parking availability and regulations vary, and advance verification is strongly recommended. Parking fees may apply depending on the specific area and time of day. Contact the university directly or check their website for current parking information and availability.
Oriental Museum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about Oriental Museum
A Gateway to Eastern Cultures
The Oriental Museum stands as a distinctive cultural institution within Durham University, founded in 1960 with a mission to preserve and present the art and archaeology of Asia and North Africa. Housed within the university's campus on Elvet Hill, it remains the only museum in the North East dedicated solely to these regions, making it an essential destination for anyone seeking to understand the rich tapestry of Eastern civilizations. The museum's collections have grown substantially since its inception, enriched by donations from prominent benefactors and carefully selected acquisitions that reflect the breadth and depth of these cultures.Treasures Across Four Continents
The museum's permanent collections are organized into four major sections, each representing distinct cultural spheres. The China Collection ranks among Britain's most significant Chinese assemblies outside London, spanning over 5,000 years of artistic and cultural expression. Visitors encounter ancient jade carvings, exquisite ceramics, Buddhist figurines that illuminate spiritual practices, Ming dynasty tomb figures that reveal death rituals, and Qing dynasty costumes that illuminate daily life. The Japan and Korea section showcases the refined aesthetics and craftsmanship of East Asian traditions, while the Ancient Egypt and Sudan galleries present an exceptional array of artifacts that illuminate one of history's most enduring civilizations. The Southwest Asia section completes the geographical scope, presenting material culture from the Middle East that demonstrates the region's historical significance and artistic achievements.Interactive Learning and Accessibility
Beyond passive observation, the Oriental Museum actively engages visitors through interactive exhibits and comprehensive interpretive signage. The museum is fully accessible, with lifts and facilities designed to accommodate visitors of all mobility levels. Educational programs cater to diverse audiences, from children participating in hands-on workshops on Chinese calligraphy and Japanese origami to adults attending expert lectures on Asian cultural topics. The museum regularly hosts special exhibitions that explore specific themes or highlight particular aspects of its extensive collections, ensuring that repeat visits reveal new perspectives and discoveries.A Rewarding Exploration
While the museum may appear modest in scale, its depth rewards unhurried exploration. Visitors consistently report that what initially seems like a brief visit expands into several hours of engagement, particularly when taking time to read the detailed descriptions accompanying each artifact. The thoughtful curation ensures that even casual visitors gain meaningful insights into the cultures represented, while scholars find substantial material for serious study. The staff are known for their knowledge and approachability, enhancing the visitor experience through informed conversation and assistance.Practical Considerations for Your Visit
Admission to the Oriental Museum is entirely free, removing financial barriers to cultural exploration. The museum operates from Tuesday through Friday from 10:00 to 17:00, with extended hours on Thursday until 19:00, and weekend hours from 12:00 to 17:00 on Saturday and Sunday. Monday remains closed. The location on Elvet Hill places it within reasonable walking distance of Durham's city center, approximately 20 to 30 minutes on foot depending on your pace, with the route generally well-signposted. Limited parking is available on the university campus, though it is advisable to verify availability and regulations in advance. Most visitors allocate two to three hours for their visit, though those with particular interests may spend considerably longer.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Durham
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Framwellgate Bridge
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Durham Viaduct
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Durham Band Stand
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Durham Obelisk
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Ludworth Tower
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The High Level Bridge
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Tyne Bridge
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Quayside
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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
Botanic Garden
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Prebends Bridge
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Experience the beauty and history of Prebends Bridge in Durham, a stunning architectural gem connecting the city to nature's tranquility.
Durham Cathedral
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Discover Durham Cathedral’s Norman grandeur, sacred relics, and breathtaking views in the heart of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Dog & Bicycle Sculpture
1.2 km
Experience the playful charm of the Dog & Bicycle Sculpture, a beloved landmark in Durham, showcasing the city's artistic spirit.
Department of Classics and Ancient History • Durham University
1.2 km
Classical scholarship in a medieval setting: Durham's premier centre for ancient languages, philosophy, and Mediterranean studies.
Stone Circle
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A quiet Bronze Age stone circle just south of Durham city, perfect for history lovers, photographers, and those seeking a peaceful moment in the countryside.
Museum of Archaeology • Durham University
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Explore northeast England’s ancient past in a historic university library at the heart of Durham’s UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Durham Museum
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Palace Green Library
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Explore Durham’s historic Palace Green Library, a treasure trove of rare books, exhibitions, and heritage in the heart of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Palace Green
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World Heritage Site Visitor Centre
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Low Burnhall (Woodland Trust)
1.3 km
A peaceful 68-hectare woodland near Durham with ancient trees, bluebells, riverside paths, willow sculptures and a bird hide – perfect for short walks and dog walking.
Riverside walk
1.3 km
Explore Durham’s scenic 3-mile riverside loop with historic bridges, cathedral views, and tranquil green spaces along the River Wear.
Essential places to dine
Whitechurch Durham
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The Undercroft Restaurant
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The Rabbit Hole
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Holi and Bhang Indian Restaurant & Cocktail Bar, Durham
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Antico Restaurant Durham
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The Stonebridge Inn
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Discover the taste of Durham at The Stonebridge Inn - your go-to gastropub offering delicious food and drinks in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Lebaneat
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Experience authentic Lebanese flavors with generous portions and diverse dietary options in the heart of historic Durham.
Zen
1.4 km
Experience authentic Asian fusion cuisine in a stylish Durham setting, blending traditional flavours with modern flair.
Akarsu Turkish Restaurant & Grill
1.4 km
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Nadon Thai - Durham
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The Curious Mr Fox
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Zizzi - Durham
1.4 km
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
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Historic riverside dining with seasonal Modern European cuisine and scenic terraces in the heart of Durham.
Flat White Kitchen
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Tango Durham
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Cathedral Shop
1.1 km
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The Cutting Edge
1.2 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and local crafts in the historic heart of Durham at The Cutting Edge.
Sasa Girls
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Discover stylish, locally crafted fashion accessories at Sasa Girls, Durham’s charming boutique for unique and trendy pieces.
The Georgian Window
1.4 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
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Circle Vintage Durham
1.4 km
Discover Durham’s largest curated vintage clothing collection in a charming historic boutique on Saddler Street.
Cloth
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Discover Durham’s hidden basement gem for costumes, vintage clothing, fabrics, and party supplies all in one quirky, creative boutique.
7 Day Store
1.4 km
Discover authentic Asian flavors and ingredients at Durham’s vibrant 7 Day Store, open daily for your culinary adventures.
Collected
1.4 km
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The Mugwump
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Waceland Durham
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Rohan Durham - Outdoor Clothing & Walking Gear
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People's Bookshop Durham
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The Edinburgh Woollen Mill
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The Boathouse
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
24 North Bailey Club
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Ye Old Elm Tree
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The Angel
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The Holy GrAle
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The Library
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Old Toms Gin Bar
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The Shakespeare
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The Half Moon Inn
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Osbournes
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Blue Eye
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The Three Bridges
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Babylon Durham
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Tin Of Sardines Gin Bar - Durham
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Swan & Three Cygnets
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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Klute
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Jimmy Allens
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Loft Durham
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Bohemia Durham
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7even Nightclub
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Warehouse Night Club(SR44)
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Digital
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Powerhouse
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TheCUT Newcastle
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Tup Tup Palace
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The Social Club
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Bohemia Newcastle
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TROPICANA NEWCASTLE
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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
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Minimalist Designs
- Art Deco Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Business Friendly
