Umbrella Alley at Millburngate Shopping Centre, Durham
A vibrant canopy of colorful umbrellas brightening Durham’s Millburngate Shopping Centre with artful charm and urban whimsy.
Umbrella Alley is a charming and colorful tourist attraction located within the Millburngate Shopping Centre on Durham's High Street. Known for its striking display of suspended umbrellas, this vibrant installation adds a whimsical touch to the shopping experience, making it a popular spot for photos and leisurely strolls. Situated in the heart of Durham, it blends contemporary art with the city's historic ambiance.
A brief summary to Umbrella alley
- Suite 1, Millburngate Shopping Centre, 27 High St, Prince Bishops, Durham, DH1 3UJ, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 1.5 hours
- Free
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the colors and shadows created by the umbrella canopy.
- Bring a camera or smartphone for excellent photo opportunities in this visually striking spot.
- Combine your visit with shopping or dining at Millburngate Shopping Centre for a complete experience.
- Check for any seasonal events or installations that might enhance the Umbrella Alley experience.
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
Durham Bus Station is approximately a 10-minute walk from Millburngate Shopping Centre, served by frequent local and regional bus routes. Bus fares typically range from £2 to £5 depending on distance.
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Train
Durham Railway Station is a 15-minute walk from Millburngate Shopping Centre. From the station, taxis are available with fares around £5-£7. Train services connect Durham with Newcastle and other major cities.
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Car
Parking is available at Millburngate’s Riverside Car Park, open daily with rates starting at £2 for up to 2 hours and up to £11.50 for 24 hours. The car park is accessible via the A690 and well signposted.
Umbrella alley 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 Umbrella alley
A Splash of Color in Durham's Urban Heart
Umbrella Alley is a captivating installation nestled inside the Millburngate Shopping Centre, located on Durham's bustling High Street. This unique display features a canopy of vibrant umbrellas suspended overhead, creating a kaleidoscope of colors that brighten the urban environment. The umbrellas not only serve as eye-catching art but also provide a playful, sheltered walkway for visitors, inviting them to pause and enjoy the lively atmosphere.Integration with Millburngate's Modern Retail Space
Millburngate Shopping Centre is a contemporary retail and leisure hub situated on the banks of the River Wear. The centre is known for its blend of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, including boutique cinemas and office spaces. Umbrella Alley complements this modern development by adding an artistic and whimsical element that contrasts beautifully with the centre’s sleek architecture and riverside views, enhancing the visitor experience.Artistic Expression Meets Everyday Life
The installation exemplifies how public art can transform everyday spaces into memorable experiences. The suspended umbrellas create a playful canopy that casts colorful shadows and invites interaction. This artistic touch encourages visitors to engage with their surroundings, making Umbrella Alley a favored spot for photography and social media sharing, while also providing a moment of joy amid the shopping bustle.Durham’s Cultural and Visual Landscape
Durham is celebrated for its historic skyline, including the iconic cathedral and castle. Umbrella Alley adds a contemporary layer to the city’s cultural tapestry, showcasing how modern creativity can coexist with heritage. Positioned within a vibrant shopping centre, it offers a fresh perspective on Durham’s evolving urban identity, appealing to both locals and tourists seeking a unique visual and sensory experience.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Walking through Umbrella Alley, visitors are enveloped in a canopy of color that shifts with the light and weather, creating a dynamic and uplifting environment. The space fosters a casual, fun-filled ambience where people can relax, socialize, and enjoy a break from traditional shopping. Its location within Millburngate ensures easy access to amenities such as seating areas and food options, enhancing comfort and convenience.Community and Seasonal Engagement
Umbrella Alley often serves as a focal point for community events and seasonal celebrations within the shopping centre. Its vibrant display can be adapted or complemented by additional decorations during holidays or special occasions, reinforcing its role as a lively and engaging public space that contributes to Durham’s social fabric.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Market place
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Durham Town Hall
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Framwellgate Bridge
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Durham British Israel Fellowship
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Kathedra
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Durham Viaduct
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Durham Band Stand
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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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Unmissable attractions to see
Durham Market Hall
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Escape Rooms Durham
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Durham Pointers
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Indoor Market
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Elvet Bridge
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Durham Castle
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Department of History • Durham University
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World Heritage Site Visitor Centre
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Revolution Durham
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No 59 Old Elvet
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Palace Green
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The Riverwalk
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Palace Green Library
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Essential places to dine
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Fat Hippo Durham
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Restaurant 17
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La Spaghettata
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19Twenty Bar & Grill
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Flat White Kitchen
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The Cellar Door
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Uno Momento
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Zizzi - Durham
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The Boat Club & Tomahawk Steakhouse
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PESTO ITALIANO
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Spice Lounge
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The Boathouse
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Elvet & Bailey
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The Edinburgh Woollen Mill
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People's Bookshop Durham
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Rohan Durham - Outdoor Clothing & Walking Gear
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Waceland Durham
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Discovering Durham CIC
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Oxfam Shop
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Whittard of Chelsea Durham
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The Mugwump
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Prince Bishops Place
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Circle Vintage Durham
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Gateway World Shop
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WHSmith
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Blue Eye
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The Shakespeare
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The Library
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The Drunken Duck
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The Half Moon Inn
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The Three Bridges
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Babylon Durham
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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Jimmy Allens
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Klute
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Bohemia Durham
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Digital
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Bohemia Newcastle
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TROPICANA NEWCASTLE
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Loca Loca | Newcastle
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Fun-filled
- Lively
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Modern
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Reel-Friendly
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Photowalk
- Cultural Heritage
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly