A Serene Escape at Old Durham Gardens
Discover the tranquil beauty of Old Durham Gardens, a hidden gem in Durham perfect for leisurely strolls and serene picnics amidst vibrant flowers.
Old Durham Gardens is a picturesque garden located in Durham, offering a tranquil retreat with lush greenery, vibrant flowers, and serene spots for relaxation. Perfect for picnics and leisurely strolls, this hidden gem invites tourists to immerse themselves in nature's beauty while enjoying the peaceful ambiance.
A brief summary to Old Durham Gardens
- Bent House Ln, Durham, DH1 2RY, GB
- +441913865188
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the weekday afternoons for a quieter experience.
- Bring a picnic blanket and enjoy a meal surrounded by nature.
- Check the blooming schedule to see the gardens in their full glory.
- Wear comfortable shoes to explore the winding paths easily.
Getting There
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Walking
Start at Durham Cathedral, a prominent landmark in the city. Exit the cathedral and head towards the river. Walk along the riverbank towards Framwellgate Bridge. Cross the bridge and continue straight until you reach the traffic lights at the end of the road. Turn left onto North Road. Follow North Road until you reach the roundabout, and take the second exit onto the A690. Continue straight for about 0.5 miles. Keep an eye out for signs for Old Durham Gardens, which will be on your right. The entrance is located on Bent House Lane.
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Bus
From Durham Bus Station, take the bus number 6 towards 'Belmont' or 'Shincliffe'. Get off at the 'Houghall College' stop. From there, walk along the road until you reach the junction with Bent House Lane. Turn right onto Bent House Lane, and Old Durham Gardens will be on your left after a short walk.
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Cycling
If you have access to a bike, start from the city centre and head towards the river. Follow the riverside path until you reach Framwellgate Bridge. Cross the bridge and continue onto North Road. Take a right onto the A690 and cycle straight for about 0.5 miles. Look for Old Durham Gardens on your right, just after the entrance to the university.
Discover more about Old Durham Gardens
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Maiden Castle Earthwork
0.5 km
Explore Durham’s ancient Iron Age promontory fort with its impressive earthworks nestled in tranquil woodland overlooking the River Wear.
Durham Band Stand
0.6 km
A peaceful riverside bandstand with one of Durham’s most iconic cathedral views, perfect for quiet moments and photography by the River Wear.
Durham Town Hall
1.5 km
Victorian civic landmark hosting culture, heritage, and community in Durham's historic heart.
Market place
1.5 km
Medieval marketplace meets Victorian grandeur—Durham's beating heart of commerce, culture, and community.
Kathedra
1.5 km
Explore the Kathedra in Durham, a stunning gothic stone chair by the river, perfect for history lovers and photography enthusiasts alike.
Framwellgate Bridge
1.6 km
Durham’s oldest stone bridge, a medieval marvel offering iconic views of the cathedral and river, steeped in history and timeless charm.
Durham British Israel Fellowship
1.8 km
Discover the Durham British Israel Fellowship: A historical church offering community spirit, stunning architecture, and a glimpse into Durham's rich heritage.
Durham
2.0 km
Explore Durham Cathedral, a Norman architectural masterpiece and spiritual sanctuary with stunning views, sacred relics, and rich medieval heritage.
Durham Viaduct
2.0 km
A majestic Victorian railway viaduct soaring over Durham’s River Wear, blending engineering excellence with stunning historic city views.
Durham Obelisk
2.3 km
A hidden 90-foot sandstone tower concealed by woodland, marking Durham's forgotten astronomical heritage.
Maiden's Bower
2.4 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
6.9 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
Dragon Park
0.6 km
Experience the beauty of Dragon Park in Durham, where nature, tranquility, and community come together in a stunning urban oasis.
The Durham Cow
0.7 km
Step into Durham’s oldest pub, The Dun Cow, where Tudor charm and legendary tales blend with excellent ales in a cozy historic setting.
Dog & Bicycle Sculpture
0.7 km
Experience the playful charm of the Dog & Bicycle Sculpture, a beloved landmark in Durham, showcasing the city's artistic spirit.
Durham Big Sing
1.1 km
A joyful community choral event in Durham celebrating inclusive singing and vibrant local music culture.
Elvet Waterside
1.1 km
Scenic riverside charm meets historic Durham city life at Elvet Waterside, a tranquil urban retreat by the iconic Elvet Bridge.
No 59 Old Elvet
1.2 km
An intimate evening bistro on historic Old Elvet street, blending local heritage with contemporary dining in the heart of Durham.
What Lies Beneath Us
1.3 km
Explore the hidden layers beneath Durham’s historic streets and discover the city’s rich geological and cultural foundations.
Elvet Bridge
1.3 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 Museum
1.3 km
Medieval heritage and local history in the heart of historic Durham, near the cathedral.
Department of Classics and Ancient History • Durham University
1.3 km
Classical scholarship in a medieval setting: Durham's premier centre for ancient languages, philosophy, and Mediterranean studies.
Department of History • Durham University
1.3 km
Explore history where Durham’s rich past meets vibrant academic excellence at the University’s historic North Bailey location.
Escape Rooms Durham
1.3 km
Immersive puzzle adventures in Durham's historic centre—from spy missions to gothic mysteries.
Durham Cathedral
1.4 km
Discover Durham Cathedral’s Norman grandeur, sacred relics, and breathtaking views in the heart of a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Umbrella alley
1.4 km
A vibrant canopy of colorful umbrellas brightening Durham’s Millburngate Shopping Centre with artful charm and urban whimsy.
World Heritage Site Visitor Centre
1.4 km
Free gateway to understanding Durham's UNESCO World Heritage Site and medieval treasures
Essential places to dine
The Townhouse Restaurant
0.9 km
A chic and intimate spot in Durham serving modern British cuisine with a stylish, welcoming atmosphere.
The Rabbit Hole
1.0 km
A 1920s Shanghai supper club with live jazz, Cantonese fusion cuisine, and intimate vintage elegance.
Amaani at the Pumphouse, Durham
1.0 km
Experience authentic Indian flavors in a plush riverside setting at Amaani, Durham’s elegant dining destination by the River Wear.
Little Sicily
1.0 km
Authentic Sicilian Italian restaurant in Durham offering fresh, affordable dishes in a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.
Zen
1.0 km
Experience authentic Asian fusion cuisine in a stylish Durham setting, blending traditional flavours with modern flair.
Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill Durham
1.1 km
Historic charm meets exquisite steakhouse dining in Durham’s unique circular room at Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill.
Whitechurch Durham
1.2 km
Cozy and festive dining in Durham’s historic heart, offering versatile café, breakfast, and pub fare with friendly service and moderate prices.
Notch Durham
1.2 km
Slow-cooked American barbecue and craft cocktails in Durham's vibrant city centre.
The Boat Club & Tomahawk Steakhouse
1.3 km
Discover exquisite steaks and crafted cocktails at The Boat Club & Tomahawk Steakhouse on Elvet Riverside - where taste meets tranquility.
Bistro Italiano
1.3 km
Authentic Italian flavors served with warmth and charm in the heart of Durham’s historic district.
Lebaneat
1.3 km
Experience authentic Lebanese flavors with generous portions and diverse dietary options in the heart of historic Durham.
19Twenty Bar & Grill
1.3 km
Modern grill and cocktail bar on Durham’s Elvet Bridge, serving gourmet burgers and steaks with scenic riverside views.
Zizzi - Durham
1.3 km
Modern Italian dining in the heart of Durham – wood-fired pizzas, fresh pasta, and a relaxed atmosphere just steps from the cathedral.
Restaurant 17
1.3 km
Boutique dining below Elvet Bridge offering world-inspired dishes in an intimate, candlelit setting with fresh local ingredients.
The Cellar Door
1.3 km
Historic riverside dining with seasonal Modern European cuisine and scenic terraces in the heart of Durham.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
7 Day Store
1.2 km
Discover authentic Asian flavors and ingredients at Durham’s vibrant 7 Day Store, open daily for your culinary adventures.
The Ultimate Ladies Boutique
1.2 km
Discover contemporary women's fashion at The Ultimate Ladies Boutique, a stylish gem in Durham's Dragonville Industrial Park.
The Range, Durham
1.3 km
Durham’s all-in-one home and lifestyle store offering furniture, garden, art supplies, and more under one roof with convenient extended hours.
TJ Hughes
1.3 km
Durham’s trusted discount department store offering top brands in home, fashion, and electronics at unbeatable prices.
Oxfam Shop
1.3 km
Discover pre-loved books, music, and more at Durham’s Oxfam Shop—where every purchase supports global poverty relief and sustainability.
Prince Bishops Place
1.3 km
Durham’s vibrant shopping centre blending high street brands, local boutiques, and award-winning facilities in the city’s historic heart.
The Georgian Window
1.3 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
1.3 km
Discover elegant Italian fashion in Durham’s historic Georgian window boutique, blending timeless style with personalized service.
Circle Vintage Durham
1.3 km
Discover Durham’s largest curated vintage clothing collection in a charming historic boutique on Saddler Street.
Discovering Durham CIC
1.4 km
Empowering Durham’s local producers through unique crafts, gifts, and community-driven retail on historic High Street.
Rohan Durham - Outdoor Clothing & Walking Gear
1.4 km
Discover Rohan Durham, your premier destination for high-quality outdoor clothing and gear, perfect for every adventurer in the beautiful English countryside.
The Mugwump
1.4 km
Discover Durham’s iconic boutique blending vintage fashion, unique gifts, and local art in a charming historic setting.
Waceland Durham
1.4 km
Discover handpicked vintage gems and streetwear essentials in a family-run boutique at the heart of Durham’s Saddler Street.
Elvet & Bailey
1.4 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and local artisan treasures at Elvet & Bailey, Durham’s beloved boutique in Prince Bishops Shopping Centre.
The Boathouse
1.4 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
Dun Cow Durham
1.0 km
Historic Durham pub famed for traditional ales, Tudor Revival interiors, and a warm, authentic local atmosphere.
The Woodman Inn - Durham
1.1 km
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The Half Moon Inn
1.2 km
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Swan & Three Cygnets
1.2 km
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24 North Bailey Club
1.3 km
Durham students’ beloved late-night bar and social club, blending historic charm with lively events on the iconic North Bailey.
The Library
1.3 km
A lively pub and social hub in Durham offering quality drinks, creative vegan dishes, and a quirky, welcoming atmosphere from morning till late.
Tin Of Sardines Gin Bar - Durham
1.3 km
Discover Durham’s tiniest gin bar with a colossal selection, expert service, and an intimate, unforgettable atmosphere on Elvet Bridge.
Osbournes
1.3 km
A vibrant, intimate bar and club in Durham known for its lively music nights, extensive gin selection, and welcoming local vibe.
Blue Eye
1.4 km
Durham’s stylish cocktail bar with creative drinks, lively vibes, and a welcoming atmosphere on historic Elvet Bridge.
The Shakespeare
1.4 km
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The Drunken Duck
1.4 km
A welcoming and lively British pub in Durham's heart, offering quality drinks and a classic atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Champagne Bar
1.5 km
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Slug & Lettuce - Durham
1.5 km
Lively cocktail bar and restaurant in Durham’s city center, perfect for social drinks, tasty meals, and vibrant events year-round.
Old Toms Gin Bar
1.6 km
Discover Durham’s riverside gem with over 250 gins, artisan boards, and expert Ginologists crafting unforgettable cocktails.
The Fighting Cocks
1.6 km
A lively, affordable pub in Durham’s city centre, perfect for casual drinks and socializing in a friendly, unpretentious setting.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Klute
1.3 km
Durham’s iconic, unapologetically rough nightclub famed for nostalgic beats, cheap drinks, and a legendary student party atmosphere.
Jimmy Allens
1.3 km
Dive into Durham’s iconic vaulted nightclub where free entry, cheap drinks, and lively crowds create unforgettable nights beneath Elvet Bridge.
Fabio's Bar
1.4 km
Durham’s lively student nightclub and live music bar above the iconic La Spaghettata, buzzing with events and authentic local charm.
Bohemia Durham
1.5 km
Bohemia Durham pulses with vibrant nightlife energy, offering dynamic music and a lively social scene in the heart of historic Durham.
Loft Durham
1.8 km
Discover Loft Durham, the ultimate nightlife destination offering vibrant music, energetic dancing, and a chic atmosphere in the heart of Durham.
7even Nightclub
18.2 km
Sunderland’s alternative nightclub with two floors of indie, soul, and rock music, hosting themed parties and vibrant late-night events.
Warehouse Night Club(SR44)
22.1 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant underground gay nightclub scene at Warehouse Night Club (SR44), where eclectic music and lively parties come alive.
Digital
22.2 km
Experience cutting-edge nightlife with superior sound and vibrant energy at Digital, Newcastle’s premier clubbing destination in Times Square.
Powerhouse
22.3 km
Newcastle’s iconic four-floor nightclub blending rich LGBTQ+ history with vibrant, inclusive nightlife and dynamic music scenes.
TheCUT Newcastle
22.4 km
Discover Newcastle’s vibrant alternative nightclub with themed indie, rock, and disco nights in a cozy, unpretentious setting.
Tup Tup Palace
22.4 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife in style at Tup Tup Palace, a luxurious club blending exotic décor with pulsating beats until the early hours.
The Social Club
22.4 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at The Social Club, where music, cocktails, and dancing come alive until the early hours.
Bohemia Newcastle
22.4 km
Neon-lit cocktail bar and compact club with graffiti murals, a mezzanine dance space and a sheltered courtyard terrace for late-night socialising.
TROPICANA NEWCASTLE
22.4 km
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
22.4 km
A compact, neon-lit nightclub on Groat Market serving late-night dance, chart and urban sets in an intimate city-centre setting.
