Discover the Charm of Umbrella Alley in Durham
Experience the vibrant Umbrella Alley in Durham, a colorful artistic installation perfect for photos and exploration in the heart of the city.
Umbrella Alley is a vibrant and artistic destination in Durham, perfect for tourists seeking unique photo opportunities and a touch of whimsy. This colorful installation brings life to the High Street and showcases the creativity of the local community.
A brief summary to Umbrella alley
- Suite 1, Millburngate Shopping Centre, 27 High St, Prince Bishops, Durham, DH1 3UJ, GB
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or during weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
- Bring your camera and take advantage of the unique lighting conditions during sunrise or sunset for stunning photos.
- Explore nearby shops and cafés to enhance your visit and support local businesses.
- Look for special events or community activities that may be happening in or around Umbrella Alley during your visit.
Getting There
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Walking
If you are starting from Durham Cathedral, head down the hill towards the River Wear. Cross the river using the Elvet Bridge. Once you are on the other side, continue straight until you reach the roundabout. At the roundabout, take the second exit onto the A691 (North Road). Walk along North Road until you reach the next roundabout. Take the first exit onto the A167 (Highgate). Continue on this road until you reach the Millburngate Shopping Centre, which will be on your left. Enter the shopping centre and follow the signs to Suite 1, where Umbrella Alley is located.
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Walking
From the railway station, exit the station and turn left onto Station Approach. Merge onto North Road, walking straight until you reach the roundabout. Take the second exit onto the A167 (Highgate). Continue walking along Highgate until you see the Millburngate Shopping Centre on your left. Enter the shopping centre and look for Suite 1, which houses Umbrella Alley.
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Walking
If you are at the Market Place in Durham, head towards the Market Square. Walk down to the A167 (Highgate) and turn left. Continue walking straight until you reach the Millburngate Shopping Centre on your left. Once inside the shopping centre, locate Suite 1 to find Umbrella Alley.
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Walking
From the Durham University area, head towards the city centre by walking down Elvet Hill Road. Continue straight onto the A167 (Highgate). Walk until you reach the Millburngate Shopping Centre on your left. After entering the shopping centre, navigate to Suite 1 to find Umbrella Alley.
Discover more about Umbrella alley
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Market place
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Medieval marketplace meets Victorian grandeur—Durham's beating heart of commerce, culture, and community.
Durham Town Hall
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Victorian civic landmark hosting culture, heritage, and community in Durham's historic heart.
Framwellgate Bridge
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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
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Discover the Durham British Israel Fellowship: A historical church offering community spirit, stunning architecture, and a glimpse into Durham's rich heritage.
Kathedra
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Explore the Kathedra in Durham, a stunning gothic stone chair by the river, perfect for history lovers and photography enthusiasts alike.
Durham Viaduct
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A majestic Victorian railway viaduct soaring over Durham’s River Wear, blending engineering excellence with stunning historic city views.
Durham
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Explore Durham Cathedral, a Norman architectural masterpiece and spiritual sanctuary with stunning views, sacred relics, and rich medieval heritage.
Durham Band Stand
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A peaceful riverside bandstand with one of Durham’s most iconic cathedral views, perfect for quiet moments and photography by the River Wear.
Durham Obelisk
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A hidden 90-foot sandstone tower concealed by woodland, marking Durham's forgotten astronomical heritage.
Maiden's Bower
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Explore Maiden's Bower, a serene Bronze Age cairn nestled in Durham's Flass Vale, where ancient history meets tranquil woodland beauty.
Maiden Castle Earthwork
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Explore Durham’s ancient Iron Age promontory fort with its impressive earthworks nestled in tranquil woodland overlooking the River Wear.
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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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
Durham Market Hall
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Victorian market hall where 40+ independent traders celebrate Durham's heritage and local character.
Escape Rooms Durham
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Immersive puzzle adventures in Durham's historic centre—from spy missions to gothic mysteries.
The Vintage Shop
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Discover timeless treasures and vintage charm in the heart of Durham at The Vintage Shop in Market Tavern.
The House of Eden
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Discover handmade treasures and personalised gifts in this charming boutique nestled in Durham Market Hall’s vibrant heart.
Durham Pointers
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Your welcoming gateway to explore Durham’s rich heritage, cultural events, and local insights from the heart of Market Place.
Indoor Market
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Discover Durham Market Hall, a lively Victorian indoor market where history, local crafts, and vibrant community spirit come together under one roof.
Elvet Bridge
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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 Castle
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Explore over 1000 years of history in this Norman castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and vibrant university residence in the heart of Durham.
Department of History • Durham University
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Explore history where Durham’s rich past meets vibrant academic excellence at the University’s historic North Bailey location.
World Heritage Site Visitor Centre
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Free gateway to understanding Durham's UNESCO World Heritage Site and medieval treasures
Revolution Durham
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Lively lounge and restaurant on Durham’s riverside offering creative cocktails, seasonal British fare, and rooftop views of historic landmarks.
No 59 Old Elvet
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An intimate evening bistro on historic Old Elvet street, blending local heritage with contemporary dining in the heart of Durham.
Palace Green
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Historic green heart of Durham, framed by Norman cathedral and castle, blending medieval power with academic heritage.
The Riverwalk
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A vibrant riverside shopping and leisure destination in Durham, blending retail, dining, entertainment, and scenic charm.
Palace Green Library
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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.
Essential places to dine
Tapas Factory
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Authentic Spanish tapas and Mediterranean flavors in Durham's vibrant city center.
Turkish Kitchen Meze and grill
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Authentic Turkish grilling and meze in Durham's vibrant city centre, where tradition meets modern hospitality.
Fat Hippo Durham
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Savor bold, inventive burgers in a quirky multi-level venue on historic Saddler Street, Durham’s heart of casual dining.
Restaurant 17
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Boutique dining below Elvet Bridge offering world-inspired dishes in an intimate, candlelit setting with fresh local ingredients.
La Spaghettata
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Durham’s longest-standing independent Italian restaurant, serving authentic, hearty Italian dishes in a cozy, welcoming setting since 1996.
Tango Durham
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Lively American-style burgers, fresh local produce, and creative cocktails in Durham’s vibrant city centre with riverside terrace dining.
19Twenty Bar & Grill
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Modern grill and cocktail bar on Durham’s Elvet Bridge, serving gourmet burgers and steaks with scenic riverside views.
Flat White Kitchen
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Experience Durham’s finest coffee and brunch in a cozy 17th-century townhouse with a modern rustic vibe and welcoming atmosphere.
The Cellar Door
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Historic riverside dining with seasonal Modern European cuisine and scenic terraces in the heart of Durham.
Uno Momento
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Generous Italian portions and vibrant atmosphere in the heart of historic Durham’s Silver Street.
Zizzi - Durham
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Modern Italian dining in the heart of Durham – wood-fired pizzas, fresh pasta, and a relaxed atmosphere just steps from the cathedral.
The Boat Club & Tomahawk Steakhouse
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Discover exquisite steaks and crafted cocktails at The Boat Club & Tomahawk Steakhouse on Elvet Riverside - where taste meets tranquility.
PESTO ITALIANO
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Experience authentic Italian cuisine with warm hospitality in the heart of historic Durham at Pesto Italiano.
Spice Lounge
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Gussto Tapas Bar - Durham
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Authentic Spanish tapas in a historic riverside setting at the heart of Durham.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
BEAR BOTTOM
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Discover unique gifts, collectibles, and local craftsmanship at Bear Bottom, Durham’s beloved indoor market shop.
The Boathouse
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Discover unique clothing and accessories at The Boathouse in Durham, a charming shop showcasing local designs and a welcoming atmosphere.
Elvet & Bailey
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Discover unique handmade gifts and local artisan treasures at Elvet & Bailey, Durham’s beloved boutique in Prince Bishops Shopping Centre.
The Edinburgh Woollen Mill
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Discover timeless Scottish knitwear and heritage fabrics at The Edinburgh Woollen Mill in Durham’s historic Saddler Street.
People's Bookshop Durham
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Discover Durham’s vibrant radical bookshop, a volunteer-run haven for second-hand books and community stories.
Rohan Durham - Outdoor Clothing & Walking Gear
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Discover Rohan Durham, your premier destination for high-quality outdoor clothing and gear, perfect for every adventurer in the beautiful English countryside.
Waceland Durham
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Discover handpicked vintage gems and streetwear essentials in a family-run boutique at the heart of Durham’s Saddler Street.
Discovering Durham CIC
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Empowering Durham’s local producers through unique crafts, gifts, and community-driven retail on historic High Street.
Oxfam Shop
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Discover pre-loved books, music, and more at Durham’s Oxfam Shop—where every purchase supports global poverty relief and sustainability.
Whittard of Chelsea Durham
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Premium tea, coffee, and gifts in Durham's historic Market Place—where expertise meets elegance.
The Mugwump
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Discover Durham’s iconic boutique blending vintage fashion, unique gifts, and local art in a charming historic setting.
Prince Bishops Place
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Durham’s vibrant shopping centre blending high street brands, local boutiques, and award-winning facilities in the city’s historic heart.
Circle Vintage Durham
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Discover Durham’s largest curated vintage clothing collection in a charming historic boutique on Saddler Street.
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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Osbournes
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Tin Of Sardines Gin Bar - Durham
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The Library
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A lively pub and social hub in Durham offering quality drinks, creative vegan dishes, and a quirky, welcoming atmosphere from morning till late.
The Drunken Duck
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A welcoming and lively British pub in Durham's heart, offering quality drinks and a classic atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Swan & Three Cygnets
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Traditional riverside pub with a no-technology policy, affordable drinks, and cosy charm beside Durham’s historic Elvet Bridge.
The Half Moon Inn
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Champagne Bar
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Slug & Lettuce - Durham
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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
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Discover Durham’s riverside gem with over 250 gins, artisan boards, and expert Ginologists crafting unforgettable cocktails.
The Fighting Cocks
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A lively, affordable pub in Durham’s city centre, perfect for casual drinks and socializing in a friendly, unpretentious setting.
The Three Bridges
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Babylon Durham
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A buzzing, budget-friendly bar and nightclub in Durham offering lively nights, packed dance floors, and a true local nightlife experience.
The Holy GrAle
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Discover Durham’s vibrant craft beer scene at The Holy GrAle, a quirky bar with local brews, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Fabio's Bar
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Durham’s lively student nightclub and live music bar above the iconic La Spaghettata, buzzing with events and authentic local charm.
Jimmy Allens
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Dive into Durham’s iconic vaulted nightclub where free entry, cheap drinks, and lively crowds create unforgettable nights beneath Elvet Bridge.
Klute
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Durham’s iconic, unapologetically rough nightclub famed for nostalgic beats, cheap drinks, and a legendary student party atmosphere.
Bohemia Durham
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Bohemia Durham pulses with vibrant nightlife energy, offering dynamic music and a lively social scene in the heart of historic Durham.
Loft Durham
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Discover Loft Durham, the ultimate nightlife destination offering vibrant music, energetic dancing, and a chic atmosphere in the heart of Durham.
7even Nightclub
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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)
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Experience Newcastle’s vibrant underground gay nightclub scene at Warehouse Night Club (SR44), where eclectic music and lively parties come alive.
Digital
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Experience cutting-edge nightlife with superior sound and vibrant energy at Digital, Newcastle’s premier clubbing destination in Times Square.
Powerhouse
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Newcastle’s iconic four-floor nightclub blending rich LGBTQ+ history with vibrant, inclusive nightlife and dynamic music scenes.
TheCUT Newcastle
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Discover Newcastle’s vibrant alternative nightclub with themed indie, rock, and disco nights in a cozy, unpretentious setting.
Tup Tup Palace
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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
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Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at The Social Club, where music, cocktails, and dancing come alive until the early hours.
Bohemia Newcastle
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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
21.7 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
21.7 km
A compact, neon-lit nightclub on Groat Market serving late-night dance, chart and urban sets in an intimate city-centre setting.
