Best Attractions in Durham
Planning a trip to Durham? Discover the best attractions in Durham with history, expert tips, and routes. Free on web or the Evendo app.
The best attractions in Durham
Durham offers a blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that will captivate any visitor. Explore the iconic Durham Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and marvel at its stunning architecture and history dating back to 1093. Wander through the charming cobbled streets of the Durham City Centre, filled with quaint shops and cafes. Visit the historic Durham Castle, now part of Durham University, and imagine life as a medieval student. Take a peaceful stroll along the River Wear, crossing the picturesque Prebends Bridge. With a rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking scenery, Durham is a must-visit destination for any traveler.
- Top rated
- Closest to the centre
- Price level: low to high
- Time to spend: shortest first
- A–Z
47 attractions
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Cathedral4.8★9,654 reviews
Durham Cathedral
Durham Cathedral, a masterpiece of Norman architecture built between 1093 and 1133, stands as a monumental symbol of medieval faith and power. Renowned for its Romanesque design, soaring vaulted ceilings, and the Shrine of St Cuthbert, it offers visitors a rich blend of history, art, and spirituality. Explore its cloisters featured in Harry Potter films, climb the central tower for panoramic views, and discover ancient relics and manuscripts in the museum, all within the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Durham.
Mon–Sat 10:00–16:00 · Sun 12:00–16:00Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Shopping Centre4.3★2,819 reviews
The Riverwalk
The Riverwalk in Durham is a vibrant shopping centre set along the scenic riverside, offering a diverse mix of high street and independent shops, dining venues, entertainment options including a cinema and bowling alley, and leisure facilities. Open daily from morning until midnight, it provides a lively atmosphere for shopping, dining, and socialising, all within walking distance of Durham’s historic landmarks.
Daily 9:00–24:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–4 hrs
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Castle4.6★1,691 reviews
Durham Castle
Durham Castle, a Norman fortress built in the 11th century, stands proudly on Palace Green in Durham city. A UNESCO World Heritage Site alongside Durham Cathedral, it offers guided tours revealing over 1000 years of history. Today, it serves as the home of University College, Durham University, blending medieval architecture with academic life in a unique living heritage site.
Price level $$Time to spend 0.8–1 hr
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Market4.4★1,807 reviews
Durham Market Hall
Step into Durham Market Hall, a Victorian gem housing over 40 independent traders in the heart of historic Durham. This beautifully preserved 1851 market showcases everything from fresh local produce and artisanal foods to fashion, jewellery, books, and unique crafts. With its warm, welcoming atmosphere and knowledgeable stallholders, it's far more than a shopping destination—it's a living piece of Durham's heritage where tradition and contemporary retail seamlessly blend. Browse at your leisure, refuel at the mezzanine café, and experience authentic local culture.
Mon–Sat 9:00–16:30Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Theme park4.4★1,763 reviews
Adventure Valley
Adventure Valley in Durham is the largest family adventure park in the North East, featuring over 50 attractions including indoor play zones, outdoor adventures, and a farmyard with friendly animals. Open year-round with seasonal hours, it offers fun for all ages through activities like go-karting, adventure golf, and animal encounters, alongside dining and ample facilities for a full day of family entertainment.
Price level $$Time to spend 3–6 hrs
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Historical place museum4.6★1,151 reviews
Ushaw: Historic House, Chapels & Gardens
Nestled near Durham, Ushaw Historic House, Chapels & Gardens offers a captivating journey through Gothic Revival architecture, serene gardens, and rich cultural heritage. Spanning 500 acres, this former Catholic seminary features stunning chapels designed by Augustus Pugin, tranquil woodlands, art exhibitions, and welcoming spaces for visitors of all ages. With accessible pathways, a vibrant events calendar, and cozy accommodation, Ushaw invites you to explore history, art, and nature in harmony.
Daily 10:00–16:00Price level $$Time to spend 2–5 hrs
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Garden4.6★1,109 reviews
National Trust - Crook Hall Gardens
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.
Daily 10:00–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 1.5–3 hrs
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Park and Garden4.6★1,103 reviews
Wharton Park
Perched on a hillside overlooking Durham city centre, Wharton Park is a vibrant multi-level green space offering spectacular views of Durham Cathedral and the surrounding landscape. This VisitEngland-accredited attraction features a heritage centre, modern café, children's play areas for all ages, an amphitheatre for events, miniature car track, outdoor gym, and putting green. Just a short walk from Durham railway station, it's an ideal escape for families, nature lovers, and anyone seeking panoramic city vistas.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 1.5–4 hrs
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Monastery4.6★1,070 reviews
Finchale Priory
Set on a bend of the River Wear near Durham, Finchale Priory is the atmospheric ruins of a 13th-century monastic retreat founded on the hermitage of St Godric. Managed by English Heritage, this free-to-enter site offers a peaceful blend of medieval history, scenic woodland walks, and picnic spots, perfect for history buffs, nature lovers, and dog walkers alike.
Daily 10:00–17:00Time to spend 1–2 hrs
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Botanical garden4.6★765 reviews
Botanic Garden
A 25-acre botanical sanctuary nestled among mature woodlands on the outskirts of Durham city centre, this university-managed garden showcases diverse plant collections from five continents. Visitors wander through specialized zones including an alpine garden, winter garden, bamboo grove, tropical and desert glasshouses, woodland trails, and wildflower meadows. The site features modern art installations, a visitor centre with café and gift shop, and abundant seating throughout. Wheelchair access is available to main areas, though some woodland paths are steep. Open daily with modest admission fees.
Daily 10:00–16:30Price level $Time to spend 1.5–3.5 hrs
Oriental Museum
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.
Time to spend 2–4 hrs
Revolution Durham
Revolution Durham is a lively lounge and restaurant located on North Road in the heart of Durham city. Offering creative cocktails, seasonal British and grill cuisine, and stunning river views, it combines a relaxed daytime dining experience with energetic nightlife. Its heated rooftop terrace overlooks Durham Castle and Cathedral, making it a popular spot for brunch, lunch, and evening drinks in a vibrant yet comfortable setting.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–4 hrs
Low Burnhall (Woodland Trust)
Just south of Durham city centre, Low Burnhall is a 68-hectare woodland managed by the Woodland Trust. A mosaic of ancient sweet chestnut woods, wet woodland, wildflower meadows and riverside paths, it offers peaceful walks, seasonal bluebells, willow sculptures and a bird hide. There’s a free car park, waymarked trails and a small coffee stall on weekends, but no toilets on site. Ideal for dog walking, families and nature lovers seeking a quiet escape close to the city.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Old Durham Gardens
Tucked beside the River Wear just east of Durham city centre, Old Durham Gardens is a tranquil 17th-century walled garden and orchard, lovingly restored and maintained by volunteers. The lower gardens and orchard are open 24/7, while the upper walled garden opens on Thursday and Sunday afternoons from April to September. With terraced lawns, heritage fruit trees, and peaceful riverside paths, it’s a quiet escape for walkers, picnickers, and anyone seeking a moment of calm. Entry is free, though donations are welcome to support this community-run green space.
Thu 14:00–16:00 · Sun 14:00–16:00Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Escape Rooms Durham
Escape Rooms Durham is an immersive entertainment venue located in the heart of Durham city centre, offering multiple themed escape room experiences for groups of 2–7 players. Housed in a historic building on Saddler Street, the venue features carefully crafted puzzles, atmospheric storytelling, and engaging game masters who guide players through challenges ranging from spy missions to gothic mysteries. With rooms designed for various skill levels and group compositions, it caters to families, friends, corporate teams, and special occasions.
Daily 10:00–22:30Price level $$Time to spend 1–1.5 hrs
Elvet Bridge
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.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Low Burnhall Woodland Trust
Low Burnhall Woodland Trust is a 68-hectare nature reserve located just 3.2 km south of Durham city centre. This diverse woodland features ancient sweet chestnut groves, wildflower meadows, and wet woodlands that support native wildlife. Visitors can enjoy a network of well-maintained paths, riverside strolls, and unique art installations including wicker sculptures and a willow miner, all within a peaceful setting rich in local history.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 1–3 hrs
Museum of Archaeology • Durham University
Housed within Durham University’s historic Palace Green Library, the Museum of Archaeology showcases fascinating finds from across northeast England, from prehistoric tools to medieval relics. Set in a UNESCO World Heritage Site beside Durham Cathedral and Castle, the museum offers a quiet, scholarly atmosphere with free entry and rotating exhibitions that bring regional history vividly to life. It’s an ideal stop for history lovers and anyone exploring Durham’s rich past.
Daily 10:00–17:00Price level $Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Aykley Wood Nature Reserve
Aykley Wood Nature Reserve is a tranquil woodland escape located just outside the historic city of Durham. Spanning over 13 hectares, it features ancient woodlands, well-maintained trails, and diverse wildlife habitats. Visitors can enjoy peaceful walks, scenic views of Durham’s cathedral and cityscape, and seasonal natural beauty throughout the year. This nature reserve offers a perfect retreat for families, nature lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts seeking calm and connection with the English countryside.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 1–3 hrs
Palace Green
Palace Green is a historic open space nestled between Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle in the city’s UNESCO World Heritage Site. This iconic green serves as a cultural and academic hub, home to the Palace Green Library with its special collections, Cosin’s Library, and the Museum of Archaeology. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of medieval architecture while exploring exhibitions and taking guided tours in a tranquil yet lively setting steeped in centuries of history.
Price level $Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Dun Holm House - Student Accommodation Durham
Dun Holm House is a modern student accommodation complex located on The Riverwalk in Durham, offering a variety of ensuite studios and single rooms with shared kitchens. Built in 2018, it features extensive communal facilities including a gym, cinema room, games area, study spaces, and a vibrant social atmosphere. Its prime location near Durham University, shopping centres, restaurants, and transport links makes it a convenient and lively home for students.
Mon–Fri 9:00–17:30Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
World Heritage Site Visitor Centre
Located at 7 Owengate in the heart of Durham's medieval peninsula, the World Heritage Site Visitor Centre serves as the essential gateway to understanding one of England's most significant historic sites. This free facility, housed in a beautifully restored 19th-century building, provides comprehensive information about Durham's UNESCO World Heritage designation, the iconic Norman Cathedral, and the historic Castle. Staffed by knowledgeable volunteers and professionals, the centre offers interactive displays, exhibitions, and personalized advice to help visitors navigate the treasures of this remarkable destination.
Daily 10:00–17:00Time to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
Durham Museum
Housed in a historic Victorian building near Durham Cathedral, the Durham Museum offers a compact yet engaging exploration of the region's rich heritage. The museum's thoughtfully curated exhibits span from medieval times to the present, with particular emphasis on Durham's significance as a center of religion and learning. Visitors appreciate the well-organized displays and knowledgeable staff, though the modest size means most can explore thoroughly in about an hour. The museum's prime location in the heart of Durham makes it an ideal complement to visits to nearby cathedral and castle attractions.
Price level $Time to spend 1–2 hrs
Palace Green Library
Palace Green Library in Durham is a historic university library and cultural hub located on the UNESCO World Heritage Site peninsula. Founded in the 17th century by Bishop John Cosin, it houses extensive collections of rare books, manuscripts, and archives, alongside exhibitions on local history and archaeology. The library blends centuries-old architecture with modern conservation efforts, offering visitors a unique glimpse into Durham's rich heritage and academic legacy.
Daily 10:00–17:00Time to spend 1–2 hrs
Riverside walk
The Durham Riverside Walk is a scenic 3-mile circular route along the River Wear in the heart of Durham city. This moderate walk takes about 1 to 1.5 hours and offers views of historic bridges, green spaces, and iconic landmarks including Durham Cathedral and the university. The path weaves through wooded areas and riverside footpaths, connecting charming cafes, historic architecture, and tranquil natural beauty.
Daily 8:00–20:00Time to spend 1–1.5 hrs
The Scrambles Nature Reserve
The Scrambles Nature Reserve in Durham is a tranquil green space known for its natural woodland and the remnants of old railway bridges. This nature reserve offers a peaceful retreat for walkers and nature lovers, featuring diverse flora and fauna within a gently undulating landscape. It is an ideal spot for those seeking quiet outdoor exploration close to the city.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 1–3 hrs
The Vintage Shop
The Vintage Shop, located in the historic Market Tavern on Market Place in Durham, offers a curated selection of antique and vintage treasures. Known for its diverse collection ranging from clothing to collectibles, it provides a nostalgic shopping experience in a charming setting within the heart of Durham city.
Mon–Sat 9:00–16:30Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Flass Vale Local Nature Reserve
Flass Vale Local Nature Reserve, on the edge of Durham city, is a tranquil haven of ancient woodland, grasslands, and marsh habitats. Rich in wildlife such as squirrels, rabbits, and deer, it offers peaceful walking trails, historic insights, and a natural escape close to urban life.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 1–3 hrs
The Count's House
The Count's House is a small, neoclassical summerhouse on the banks of the River Wear in Durham, built in the 1820s. Resembling a miniature Greek temple, it is named after Joseph Boruwlaski, a famed Polish dwarf and entertainer who lived nearby, though he never actually resided in the house. This Grade II listed landmark offers a unique glimpse into local history and architecture, nestled amidst tranquil riverside scenery.
Time to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
Umbrella alley
Umbrella Alley is a charming and colorful tourist attraction located within the Millburngate Shopping Centre on Durham's High Street. Known for its striking display of suspended umbrellas, this vibrant installation adds a whimsical touch to the shopping experience, making it a popular spot for photos and leisurely strolls. Situated in the heart of Durham, it blends contemporary art with the city's historic ambiance.
Time to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
The Durham Cow
The Dun Cow in Durham is a charming, centuries-old pub known for its historic Tudor Revival interior and traditional ales. Dating back to the 15th century, it offers a cozy, authentic atmosphere with original wood paneling, a carved fireplace, and a snug bar. This Grade II listed building connects visitors to Durham’s rich heritage and local legends, making it a must-visit for lovers of history and classic British pubs.
Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Observation Hide
Tucked away in the quiet countryside near Durham, Observation Hide is a purpose-built birdwatching hide offering a peaceful retreat into nature. Designed for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers, it provides a comfortable, well-equipped space to observe red squirrels, woodpeckers, nuthatches, and a variety of woodland birds in a natural setting. The hide is accessed via a short walk through woodland, with refreshments and thoughtful details that enhance the experience. It’s an ideal spot for a quiet day immersed in birdsong and forest life, away from the bustle of the city.
Open 24 hoursPrice level $$Time to spend 2–6 hrs
Stone Circle
Just off the A177 south of Durham city, this small prehistoric stone circle sits quietly in open grassland, a subtle but evocative remnant of ancient ritual. The circle of weathered sandstone blocks, some half-buried, stands in a peaceful, windswept setting with views across the surrounding countryside. It’s a place for quiet reflection, photography at golden hour, and a tangible connection to Durham’s deep past, easily combined with a walk from the city or a stop on a wider exploration of the region’s historic landscape.
Time to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
Durham Heritage Coast
The Durham Heritage Coast stretches along England’s northeast, offering a spectacular blend of rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and rich natural habitats. This 11-mile coastal path showcases dramatic Magnesian Limestone cliffs, diverse wildlife, and remnants of industrial history. Visitors can explore wildflower-rich grasslands, wooded valleys known as denes, and fossil-filled shores while enjoying panoramic views of the North Sea. The area is ideal for hiking, wildlife spotting, and immersing in geological and cultural heritage.
Time to spend 2–6 hrs
What Lies Beneath Us
What Lies Beneath Us is a captivating tourist attraction located in Durham, DH1 3TA. This site invites visitors to explore the hidden layers of history and culture beneath the city’s surface, offering a unique perspective on Durham’s rich heritage. Situated in an urban setting, it combines intriguing narratives with immersive experiences, making it a must-visit for those interested in uncovering the unseen stories of this historic city.
Open 24 hoursPrice level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
Department of History • Durham University
Situated at 43 North Bailey in Durham, the Department of History at Durham University is a distinguished academic hub housed within the historic university precinct. It offers a rich environment for historical scholarship, combining traditional academic rigor with a vibrant student community in a setting steeped in heritage and architectural charm.
Mon–Fri 9:00–17:00Time to spend 1–3 hrs
City of Durham
The historic city of Durham, nestled in a dramatic loop of the River Wear in northeast England, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site famed for its magnificent Norman cathedral and medieval castle. Dominating a rocky peninsula, the cathedral and castle rise above cobbled streets, ancient colleges, and the winding river, creating one of England’s most iconic cityscapes. Durham blends over a thousand years of religious, academic, and civic history with a vibrant modern university town atmosphere, offering visitors a rich tapestry of architecture, culture, and riverside charm.
Price level $$Time to spend 2–6 hrs
No 59 Old Elvet
No 59 Old Elvet is a contemporary bistro located in the heart of Durham, offering a cozy dining experience in a historic city setting. Situated on Old Elvet, it provides a relaxed atmosphere with a focus on quality food and evening service, ideal for locals and visitors seeking an intimate meal in a charming part of Durham.
Mon–Sat 18:00–22:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
Durham Pointers
Durham Pointers is the official Tourist Information Centre located in the heart of Durham Market Place. It serves as a key resource for visitors seeking guidance on local attractions, events, and accommodations within Durham city. Open daily, it offers friendly, knowledgeable staff ready to assist travelers with maps, brochures, and insider tips to enhance their visit to this historic city.
Daily 9:30–15:30Time to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
Beechnut park
Tucked away in the heart of Durham, Beechnut Park is a peaceful green oasis perfect for families, dog walkers, and anyone seeking a quiet escape from the city. Lush lawns, mature trees, and well-kept paths create a welcoming atmosphere for picnics, play, and gentle strolls. The park features a children’s playground, open grassy areas, and seasonal floral displays, making it a year-round destination for locals and visitors alike. With its central location and relaxed vibe, Beechnut Park offers a simple yet rewarding slice of urban nature.
Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Stone Spiral
The Stone Spiral in Durham is a captivating outdoor tourist attraction featuring a unique spiral arrangement of stones. Located in Durham DH1 3ST, this enigmatic site invites visitors to reflect amidst its natural setting. Its intriguing circular stone formations offer a quiet, contemplative experience enhanced by the surrounding environment, making it a subtle yet memorable landmark in the city.
Time to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
Wicker People
Wicker People is a distinctive outdoor art installation in Durham featuring intricately crafted wicker sculptures that merge artistic vision with natural materials. Located in a serene woodland setting, this quirky attraction invites visitors to explore imaginative figurative forms created from woven branches and organic elements. The installation celebrates local creativity and offers a unique photographic opportunity for art enthusiasts and curious travelers seeking unconventional cultural experiences.
Time to spend 1–3 hrs
The House of Eden
Nestled in the far-left corner of Durham Market Hall, The House of Eden is a boutique filled with curated handmade and upcycled items, home fragrances, and personalised gifts. Run by Louisa McLean, this charming shop offers unique essentials like kimonos, tote bags, candles, and customisable notebooks and mugs, making it a delightful stop for thoughtful presents and home décor.
Mon–Sat 9:30–16:30Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
Elvet Waterside
Elvet Waterside is a picturesque riverside area in Durham, England, known for its scenic views of the River Wear and proximity to the city’s historic landmarks. Nestled near Elvet Bridge, this urban location offers a blend of modern living spaces, student accommodation, and charming riverside walks. Its central position provides easy access to Durham’s cultural heritage, shops, and eateries, making it a vibrant yet tranquil spot for visitors and residents alike.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Department of Classics and Ancient History • Durham University
Located on the historic North Bailey in Durham's medieval heart, the Department of Classics and Ancient History is one of England's leading centres for classical scholarship. Housed in a Grade I listed building adjacent to Durham Castle, the department combines rigorous language study with exploration of ancient Greek, Roman, and Mediterranean cultures. Home to world-class researchers and extensive special collections, it offers postgraduate programmes and welcomes visitors interested in classical heritage.
Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Indoor Market
Durham Market Hall is a vibrant indoor market located in the historic Market Place of Durham, England. Under its beautiful Victorian roof, it hosts over 40 independent traders offering a diverse range of crafts, local produce, specialty foods, and unique gifts. Open Monday to Saturday from 9am to 4:30pm, it blends tradition with contemporary retail, featuring a mezzanine café and accessible facilities, making it a lively shopping and cultural hub in the city.
Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Durham Big Sing
Durham Big Sing is a vibrant community choral event held at 8 Old Elvet in Durham, UK. Celebrating music-making across the region, it brings together singers of all ages and abilities for joyful collective singing, often featuring live bands and inclusive performances. The event fosters community spirit and musical education in a welcoming atmosphere within Durham’s historic city centre.
Price level $Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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