Explore the Rich Heritage at Durham Museum
Discover the rich heritage and vibrant history of Durham at the Durham Museum, where art, culture, and local stories come to life.
Durham Museum, an engaging heritage museum located in the heart of Durham, offers tourists a captivating journey through local history, art, and culture. With its diverse collections and interactive exhibits, it promises an enriching experience for visitors of all ages.
A brief summary to Durham Museum
- le-Bow, 40 North Bailey St Mary, Durham, DH1 3ET, GB
- +441913846939
- Visit website
Local tips
- Check the museum's schedule for special exhibitions and events that may coincide with your visit.
- Consider visiting during weekdays to enjoy a quieter experience, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Don't forget to stop by the museum shop for unique gifts and local artwork.
- Ask about guided tours for an in-depth understanding of the exhibits.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are starting from Durham city center, head towards the Market Place. From there, walk towards the North Road and take the first left onto North Bailey. Continue along North Bailey, and you will see the Durham Museum located at le-Bow, 40 North Bailey St Mary, which will be on your right.
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Bus
From Durham Bus Station, take any bus heading towards the city center. Get off at the Market Place stop. Walk towards the North Road and turn left onto North Bailey. The Durham Museum is located at le-Bow, 40 North Bailey St Mary, just a short walk from there on your right.
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Train
If you are arriving by train at Durham Station, exit the station and walk towards the city center. Head down North Road and continue until you reach the Market Place. Turn left onto North Bailey, and you will find the Durham Museum at le-Bow, 40 North Bailey St Mary, on your right.
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Public Transport - Taxi
If you prefer to take a taxi, you can easily find one at various spots around town, including the taxi rank near the Market Place. Simply tell the driver to take you to Durham Museum at le-Bow, 40 North Bailey St Mary, and they will know the location.
Discover more about Durham Museum
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Framwellgate Bridge
0.3 km
Durham’s oldest stone bridge, a medieval marvel offering iconic views of the cathedral and river, steeped in history and timeless charm.
Market place
0.3 km
Medieval marketplace meets Victorian grandeur—Durham's beating heart of commerce, culture, and community.
Durham Town Hall
0.4 km
Victorian civic landmark hosting culture, heritage, and community in Durham's historic heart.
Kathedra
0.4 km
Explore the Kathedra in Durham, a stunning gothic stone chair by the river, perfect for history lovers and photography enthusiasts alike.
Durham British Israel Fellowship
0.5 km
Discover the Durham British Israel Fellowship: A historical church offering community spirit, stunning architecture, and a glimpse into Durham's rich heritage.
Durham
0.7 km
Explore Durham Cathedral, a Norman architectural masterpiece and spiritual sanctuary with stunning views, sacred relics, and rich medieval heritage.
Durham Viaduct
0.7 km
A majestic Victorian railway viaduct soaring over Durham’s River Wear, blending engineering excellence with stunning historic city views.
Durham Band Stand
0.8 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 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 Obelisk
1.1 km
A hidden 90-foot sandstone tower concealed by woodland, marking Durham's forgotten astronomical heritage.
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.
Ludworth Tower
8.2 km
A rare 15th-century pele tower standing as a testament to medieval border fortifications
The High Level Bridge
21.6 km
A pioneering double-deck Victorian bridge uniting rail and road across the River Tyne, symbolizing Newcastle’s industrial heritage.
Tyne Bridge
21.6 km
An iconic steel arch bridge spanning the River Tyne, symbolising NewcastleGateshead’s industrial heritage and modern spirit.
Quayside
21.6 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
Department of Classics and Ancient History • Durham University
0.0 km
Classical scholarship in a medieval setting: Durham's premier centre for ancient languages, philosophy, and Mediterranean studies.
Department of History • Durham University
0.1 km
Explore history where Durham’s rich past meets vibrant academic excellence at the University’s historic North Bailey location.
World Heritage Site Visitor Centre
0.1 km
Free gateway to understanding Durham's UNESCO World Heritage Site and medieval treasures
Museum of Archaeology • Durham University
0.1 km
Explore northeast England’s ancient past in a historic university library at the heart of Durham’s UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Palace Green
0.1 km
Historic green heart of Durham, framed by Norman cathedral and castle, blending medieval power with academic heritage.
Palace Green Library
0.1 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.
Durham Cathedral
0.2 km
Discover Durham Cathedral’s Norman grandeur, sacred relics, and breathtaking views in the heart of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Durham Castle
0.2 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.
Escape Rooms Durham
0.2 km
Immersive puzzle adventures in Durham's historic centre—from spy missions to gothic mysteries.
Elvet Bridge
0.2 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.
Durham Big Sing
0.3 km
A joyful community choral event in Durham celebrating inclusive singing and vibrant local music culture.
Umbrella alley
0.3 km
A vibrant canopy of colorful umbrellas brightening Durham’s Millburngate Shopping Centre with artful charm and urban whimsy.
No 59 Old Elvet
0.3 km
An intimate evening bistro on historic Old Elvet street, blending local heritage with contemporary dining in the heart of Durham.
Riverside walk
0.3 km
Explore Durham’s scenic 3-mile riverside loop with historic bridges, cathedral views, and tranquil green spaces along the River Wear.
Revolution Durham
0.3 km
Lively lounge and restaurant on Durham’s riverside offering creative cocktails, seasonal British fare, and rooftop views of historic landmarks.
Essential places to dine
Lebaneat
0.1 km
Experience authentic Lebanese flavors with generous portions and diverse dietary options in the heart of historic Durham.
Zizzi - Durham
0.2 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
0.2 km
Historic riverside dining with seasonal Modern European cuisine and scenic terraces in the heart of Durham.
Flat White Kitchen
0.2 km
Experience Durham’s finest coffee and brunch in a cozy 17th-century townhouse with a modern rustic vibe and welcoming atmosphere.
Tango Durham
0.2 km
Lively American-style burgers, fresh local produce, and creative cocktails in Durham’s vibrant city centre with riverside terrace dining.
Fat Hippo Durham
0.2 km
Savor bold, inventive burgers in a quirky multi-level venue on historic Saddler Street, Durham’s heart of casual dining.
La Spaghettata
0.2 km
Durham’s longest-standing independent Italian restaurant, serving authentic, hearty Italian dishes in a cozy, welcoming setting since 1996.
Notch Durham
0.2 km
Slow-cooked American barbecue and craft cocktails in Durham's vibrant city centre.
19Twenty Bar & Grill
0.2 km
Modern grill and cocktail bar on Durham’s Elvet Bridge, serving gourmet burgers and steaks with scenic riverside views.
Turkish Kitchen Meze and grill
0.2 km
Authentic Turkish grilling and meze in Durham's vibrant city centre, where tradition meets modern hospitality.
The Undercroft Restaurant
0.2 km
Historic charm meets locally sourced British fare in Durham Cathedral’s tranquil medieval café.
Restaurant 17
0.2 km
Boutique dining below Elvet Bridge offering world-inspired dishes in an intimate, candlelit setting with fresh local ingredients.
Tapas Factory
0.2 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and Mediterranean flavors in Durham's vibrant city center.
The Boat Club & Tomahawk Steakhouse
0.3 km
Discover exquisite steaks and crafted cocktails at The Boat Club & Tomahawk Steakhouse on Elvet Riverside - where taste meets tranquility.
Akarsu Turkish Restaurant & Grill
0.3 km
Authentic Turkish flavors and vibrant dining in the heart of historic Durham with stunning river and landmark views.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Georgian Window
0.1 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
0.1 km
Discover elegant Italian fashion in Durham’s historic Georgian window boutique, blending timeless style with personalized service.
Circle Vintage Durham
0.2 km
Discover Durham’s largest curated vintage clothing collection in a charming historic boutique on Saddler Street.
The Mugwump
0.2 km
Discover Durham’s iconic boutique blending vintage fashion, unique gifts, and local art in a charming historic setting.
The Cathedral Shop
0.2 km
Curated gifts and books supporting Durham Cathedral's conservation, housed in medieval undercroft spaces.
Waceland Durham
0.2 km
Discover handpicked vintage gems and streetwear essentials in a family-run boutique at the heart of Durham’s Saddler Street.
7 Day Store
0.2 km
Discover authentic Asian flavors and ingredients at Durham’s vibrant 7 Day Store, open daily for your culinary adventures.
Rohan Durham - Outdoor Clothing & Walking Gear
0.2 km
Discover Rohan Durham, your premier destination for high-quality outdoor clothing and gear, perfect for every adventurer in the beautiful English countryside.
Oxfam Shop
0.2 km
Discover pre-loved books, music, and more at Durham’s Oxfam Shop—where every purchase supports global poverty relief and sustainability.
People's Bookshop Durham
0.2 km
Discover Durham’s vibrant radical bookshop, a volunteer-run haven for second-hand books and community stories.
The Edinburgh Woollen Mill
0.2 km
Discover timeless Scottish knitwear and heritage fabrics at The Edinburgh Woollen Mill in Durham’s historic Saddler Street.
The Boathouse
0.2 km
Discover unique clothing and accessories at The Boathouse in Durham, a charming shop showcasing local designs and a welcoming atmosphere.
BEAR BOTTOM
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts, collectibles, and local craftsmanship at Bear Bottom, Durham’s beloved indoor market shop.
Elvet & Bailey
0.3 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and local artisan treasures at Elvet & Bailey, Durham’s beloved boutique in Prince Bishops Shopping Centre.
Cloth
0.3 km
Discover Durham’s hidden basement gem for costumes, vintage clothing, fabrics, and party supplies all in one quirky, creative boutique.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Library
0.2 km
A lively pub and social hub in Durham offering quality drinks, creative vegan dishes, and a quirky, welcoming atmosphere from morning till late.
24 North Bailey Club
0.2 km
Durham students’ beloved late-night bar and social club, blending historic charm with lively events on the iconic North Bailey.
The Shakespeare
0.2 km
A historic and quirky Durham pub famed for its real ales, theatrical roots, and ghostly tales in a cosy 12th-century setting.
Osbournes
0.2 km
A vibrant, intimate bar and club in Durham known for its lively music nights, extensive gin selection, and welcoming local vibe.
The Half Moon Inn
0.2 km
Historic Tudor pub on Durham’s riverside offering award-winning ales, scenic courtyard views, and a warm local atmosphere.
Blue Eye
0.2 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
0.2 km
Discover Durham’s tiniest gin bar with a colossal selection, expert service, and an intimate, unforgettable atmosphere on Elvet Bridge.
Swan & Three Cygnets
0.2 km
Traditional riverside pub with a no-technology policy, affordable drinks, and cosy charm beside Durham’s historic Elvet Bridge.
Old Toms Gin Bar
0.3 km
Discover Durham’s riverside gem with over 250 gins, artisan boards, and expert Ginologists crafting unforgettable cocktails.
The Fighting Cocks
0.3 km
A lively, affordable pub in Durham’s city centre, perfect for casual drinks and socializing in a friendly, unpretentious setting.
Dun Cow Durham
0.4 km
Historic Durham pub famed for traditional ales, Tudor Revival interiors, and a warm, authentic local atmosphere.
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 Three Bridges
0.4 km
A lively British pub in Durham blending traditional charm with modern dining, drinks, and sports in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Holy GrAle
0.4 km
Discover Durham’s vibrant craft beer scene at The Holy GrAle, a quirky bar with local brews, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Ye Old Elm Tree
0.5 km
Historic Durham pub blending centuries-old charm with a lively, welcoming atmosphere and excellent real ales.
