The Count's House: Durham's Neoclassical Riverside Curiosity
A quaint neoclassical riverside summerhouse in Durham, steeped in history and linked to the legendary Count Boruwlaski.
The Count's House is a small, neoclassical summerhouse on the banks of the River Wear in Durham, built in the 1820s. Resembling a miniature Greek temple, it is named after Joseph Boruwlaski, a famed Polish dwarf and entertainer who lived nearby, though he never actually resided in the house. This Grade II listed landmark offers a unique glimpse into local history and architecture, nestled amidst tranquil riverside scenery.
A brief summary to The Count's House
- Durham, DH1 3AN, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the classical architectural details and riverside views.
- Combine your visit with a walk along the River Wear to explore nearby landmarks like Prebends Bridge.
- Bring a camera for excellent photo opportunities of the miniature Greek temple and its scenic setting.
- Learn about Joseph Boruwlaski’s fascinating life story to enrich your experience of the site.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Bus
Take the Number 20 or 20A bus from Durham city centre to Framwellgate Waterside; the journey takes about 10-15 minutes. From the stop, it is a 5-minute walk along the riverside path to the Count's House. Buses run frequently but check schedules on weekends. A single ticket costs approximately £2.50.
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Walking
From Durham city centre, enjoy a scenic 20-25 minute walk along the River Wear footpaths towards Framwellgate Waterside. The terrain is mostly flat and accessible, suitable for all fitness levels and wheelchair users.
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Taxi
A taxi ride from Durham city centre to the Count's House takes about 5-10 minutes depending on traffic. This option offers door-to-door convenience with fares typically ranging from £6 to £10.
The Count's House location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about The Count's House
A Distinctive Neoclassical Landmark on the River Wear
The Count's House is a charming small building designed in the style of a Greek temple, featuring iconic ionic columns and a pediment. Constructed in the 1820s by the Dean and Chapter of Durham Cathedral, it was likely intended as a summerhouse or pleasure pavilion for the nearby riverside grounds owned by the Shipperdson family. Its classical design is attributed to the architect Ignatius Bonomi, who was active in Durham at the time. The building’s modest scale and elegant proportions make it a notable example of neoclassical architecture in the city.The Enigmatic Namesake: Joseph Boruwlaski, the Count
Though the house bears his name, Joseph Boruwlaski, a Polish-born dwarf famed across European courts in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, never lived here. Standing just over three feet tall, Boruwlaski styled himself as “Count” and gained celebrity through his musical performances, social gatherings, and self-published memoirs. He eventually settled nearby in Banks Cottage, where he cultivated gardens adapted to his stature. The Count’s House likely acquired its name through local association and romanticized connections to Boruwlaski, whose legacy remains a captivating part of Durham’s cultural heritage.Historical Layers and Local Life
Over the centuries, the Count's House served various roles, including a family home for several residents and even a café known for serving tea and scones. It later became an antique shop before falling into disuse. The building’s riverside location near Prebends Bridge offers scenic views and a peaceful atmosphere, making it a quiet retreat from the city bustle. Despite its small size, the house has witnessed layers of local history and community life, reflecting changing uses and stories over two centuries.Architectural and Cultural Significance
The Count's House is a Grade II listed structure, recognized for its architectural merit and historical associations. Its Greek temple form is a rare and whimsical feature along the River Wear, contributing to Durham’s rich heritage landscape. The building’s design and setting invite reflection on neoclassical aesthetics and the social histories intertwined with Durham Cathedral’s influence and the city’s riverside development.Visiting the Count's House Today
Today, the Count's House stands partly concealed by riverside foliage, accessible via a footpath along the River Wear. Its quaint and quirky appearance continues to intrigue visitors, who appreciate the blend of architectural elegance and local folklore. While the interior is not open to the public, the exterior and its riverside setting offer excellent photographic opportunities and a moment of quiet contemplation within Durham’s historic environment.Enduring Mystique and Community Connection
The Count’s House embodies a blend of fact and folklore, symbolizing how local history can become entwined with legend. It commemorates not only the figure of Joseph Boruwlaski but also the families and communities who have maintained the riverside area. The building’s story encourages visitors to explore the deeper narratives behind Durham’s landmarks and to appreciate the city’s layered cultural fabric.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Kathedra
0.2 km
Explore the Kathedra in Durham, a stunning gothic stone chair by the river, perfect for history lovers and photography enthusiasts alike.
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
0.7 km
Explore Durham Cathedral, a Norman architectural masterpiece and spiritual sanctuary with stunning views, sacred relics, and rich medieval heritage.
Market place
0.8 km
Medieval marketplace meets Victorian grandeur—Durham's beating heart of commerce, culture, and community.
Durham Town Hall
0.8 km
Victorian civic landmark hosting culture, heritage, and community in Durham's historic heart.
Durham British Israel Fellowship
0.8 km
Discover the Durham British Israel Fellowship: A historical church offering community spirit, stunning architecture, and a glimpse into Durham's rich heritage.
Durham Viaduct
1.0 km
A majestic Victorian railway viaduct soaring over Durham’s River Wear, blending engineering excellence with stunning historic city views.
Maiden Castle Earthwork
1.0 km
Explore Durham’s ancient Iron Age promontory fort with its impressive earthworks nestled in tranquil woodland overlooking the River Wear.
Durham Band Stand
1.1 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
1.3 km
Explore Maiden's Bower, a serene Bronze Age cairn nestled in Durham's Flass Vale, where ancient history meets tranquil woodland beauty.
Durham Obelisk
1.4 km
A hidden 90-foot sandstone tower concealed by woodland, marking Durham's forgotten astronomical heritage.
Ludworth Tower
8.3 km
A rare 15th-century pele tower standing as a testament to medieval border fortifications
The High Level Bridge
22.0 km
A pioneering double-deck Victorian bridge uniting rail and road across the River Tyne, symbolizing Newcastle’s industrial heritage.
Tyne Bridge
22.1 km
An iconic steel arch bridge spanning the River Tyne, symbolising NewcastleGateshead’s industrial heritage and modern spirit.
Quayside
22.1 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
Prebends Bridge
0.2 km
Experience the beauty and history of Prebends Bridge in Durham, a stunning architectural gem connecting the city to nature's tranquility.
What Lies Beneath Us
0.3 km
Explore the hidden layers beneath Durham’s historic streets and discover the city’s rich geological and cultural foundations.
Durham Cathedral
0.3 km
Discover Durham Cathedral’s Norman grandeur, sacred relics, and breathtaking views in the heart of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Department of Classics and Ancient History • Durham University
0.5 km
Classical scholarship in a medieval setting: Durham's premier centre for ancient languages, philosophy, and Mediterranean studies.
Durham Museum
0.5 km
Medieval heritage and local history in the heart of historic Durham, near the cathedral.
Museum of Archaeology • Durham University
0.5 km
Explore northeast England’s ancient past in a historic university library at the heart of Durham’s UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Palace Green Library
0.5 km
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
0.5 km
Historic green heart of Durham, framed by Norman cathedral and castle, blending medieval power with academic heritage.
World Heritage Site Visitor Centre
0.5 km
Free gateway to understanding Durham's UNESCO World Heritage Site and medieval treasures
Department of History • Durham University
0.6 km
Explore history where Durham’s rich past meets vibrant academic excellence at the University’s historic North Bailey location.
Riverside walk
0.6 km
Explore Durham’s scenic 3-mile riverside loop with historic bridges, cathedral views, and tranquil green spaces along the River Wear.
Durham Castle
0.6 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.
Revolution Durham
0.7 km
Lively lounge and restaurant on Durham’s riverside offering creative cocktails, seasonal British fare, and rooftop views of historic landmarks.
St Margaret of Antioch Church
0.7 km
Discover Durham’s historic St Margaret of Antioch Church, a Norman gem blending centuries of architecture, art, and vibrant worship near the World Heritage site.
Escape Rooms Durham
0.7 km
Immersive puzzle adventures in Durham's historic centre—from spy missions to gothic mysteries.
Essential places to dine
Whitechurch Durham
0.3 km
Cozy and festive dining in Durham’s historic heart, offering versatile café, breakfast, and pub fare with friendly service and moderate prices.
The Undercroft Restaurant
0.3 km
Historic charm meets locally sourced British fare in Durham Cathedral’s tranquil medieval café.
The Rabbit Hole
0.5 km
A 1920s Shanghai supper club with live jazz, Cantonese fusion cuisine, and intimate vintage elegance.
Lebaneat
0.5 km
Experience authentic Lebanese flavors with generous portions and diverse dietary options in the heart of historic Durham.
Akarsu Turkish Restaurant & Grill
0.6 km
Authentic Turkish flavors and vibrant dining in the heart of historic Durham with stunning river and landmark views.
Zizzi - Durham
0.6 km
Modern Italian dining in the heart of Durham – wood-fired pizzas, fresh pasta, and a relaxed atmosphere just steps from the cathedral.
Zen
0.6 km
Experience authentic Asian fusion cuisine in a stylish Durham setting, blending traditional flavours with modern flair.
The Cellar Door
0.7 km
Historic riverside dining with seasonal Modern European cuisine and scenic terraces in the heart of Durham.
Flat White Kitchen
0.7 km
Experience Durham’s finest coffee and brunch in a cozy 17th-century townhouse with a modern rustic vibe and welcoming atmosphere.
Tango Durham
0.7 km
Lively American-style burgers, fresh local produce, and creative cocktails in Durham’s vibrant city centre with riverside terrace dining.
La Spaghettata
0.7 km
Durham’s longest-standing independent Italian restaurant, serving authentic, hearty Italian dishes in a cozy, welcoming setting since 1996.
The Curious Mr Fox
0.7 km
A stylish riverside restaurant and cocktail bar in Durham, famed for fresh British dishes, quirky décor, and expertly crafted drinks.
Fat Hippo Durham
0.7 km
Savor bold, inventive burgers in a quirky multi-level venue on historic Saddler Street, Durham’s heart of casual dining.
Turkish Kitchen Meze and grill
0.7 km
Authentic Turkish grilling and meze in Durham's vibrant city centre, where tradition meets modern hospitality.
Notch Durham
0.7 km
Slow-cooked American barbecue and craft cocktails in Durham's vibrant city centre.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Cathedral Shop
0.3 km
Curated gifts and books supporting Durham Cathedral's conservation, housed in medieval undercroft spaces.
The Georgian Window
0.6 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
0.6 km
Discover elegant Italian fashion in Durham’s historic Georgian window boutique, blending timeless style with personalized service.
The Cutting Edge
0.6 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and local crafts in the historic heart of Durham at The Cutting Edge.
Circle Vintage Durham
0.7 km
Discover Durham’s largest curated vintage clothing collection in a charming historic boutique on Saddler Street.
7 Day Store
0.7 km
Discover authentic Asian flavors and ingredients at Durham’s vibrant 7 Day Store, open daily for your culinary adventures.
The Mugwump
0.7 km
Discover Durham’s iconic boutique blending vintage fashion, unique gifts, and local art in a charming historic setting.
Cloth
0.7 km
Discover Durham’s hidden basement gem for costumes, vintage clothing, fabrics, and party supplies all in one quirky, creative boutique.
Waceland Durham
0.7 km
Discover handpicked vintage gems and streetwear essentials in a family-run boutique at the heart of Durham’s Saddler Street.
Rohan Durham - Outdoor Clothing & Walking Gear
0.7 km
Discover Rohan Durham, your premier destination for high-quality outdoor clothing and gear, perfect for every adventurer in the beautiful English countryside.
People's Bookshop Durham
0.7 km
Discover Durham’s vibrant radical bookshop, a volunteer-run haven for second-hand books and community stories.
The Edinburgh Woollen Mill
0.7 km
Discover timeless Scottish knitwear and heritage fabrics at The Edinburgh Woollen Mill in Durham’s historic Saddler Street.
Collected
0.7 km
A warm, independent bookshop in Durham with curated reads, coffee, cakes, and a lively events programme on The Riverwalk.
Oxfam Shop
0.7 km
Discover pre-loved books, music, and more at Durham’s Oxfam Shop—where every purchase supports global poverty relief and sustainability.
The Boathouse
0.7 km
Discover unique clothing and accessories at The Boathouse in Durham, a charming shop showcasing local designs and a welcoming atmosphere.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
24 North Bailey Club
0.3 km
Durham students’ beloved late-night bar and social club, blending historic charm with lively events on the iconic North Bailey.
The Library
0.6 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 Fighting Cocks
0.7 km
A lively, affordable pub in Durham’s city centre, perfect for casual drinks and socializing in a friendly, unpretentious setting.
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 Half Moon Inn
0.7 km
Historic Tudor pub on Durham’s riverside offering award-winning ales, scenic courtyard views, and a warm local atmosphere.
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.
Ye Old Elm Tree
0.7 km
Historic Durham pub blending centuries-old charm with a lively, welcoming atmosphere and excellent real ales.
Old Toms Gin Bar
0.7 km
Discover Durham’s riverside gem with over 250 gins, artisan boards, and expert Ginologists crafting unforgettable cocktails.
Blue Eye
0.7 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
0.7 km
Discover Durham’s tiniest gin bar with a colossal selection, expert service, and an intimate, unforgettable atmosphere on Elvet Bridge.
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.
The Holy GrAle
0.7 km
Discover Durham’s vibrant craft beer scene at The Holy GrAle, a quirky bar with local brews, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Angel
0.7 km
A cozy and vibrant traditional pub in Durham, offering local ales, hearty meals, and lively events in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Three Bridges
0.8 km
A lively British pub in Durham blending traditional charm with modern dining, drinks, and sports in a welcoming atmosphere.
Dun Cow Durham
0.8 km
Historic Durham pub famed for traditional ales, Tudor Revival interiors, and a warm, authentic local atmosphere.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Quirky
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Minimalist Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
