Ushaw: A Journey Through History, Art, and Nature
Discover the enchanting blend of history, art, and gardens at Ushaw, a historical landmark in Durham perfect for a tranquil day out.
Ushaw offers a unique blend of historical significance, artistic marvels, and serene gardens, making it a must-visit destination for tourists in Durham. This remarkable location invites you to explore its stunning chapels, engaging exhibitions, and beautiful landscapes, perfect for a relaxing day out.
A brief summary to Ushaw: Historic House, Chapels & Gardens
- Woodland Rd, Durham, DH7 9RH, GB
- +441913738500
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds and fully enjoy the serene atmosphere.
- Check the schedule for special exhibitions and events for a more enriching experience.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in the gardens, making for a lovely afternoon amidst nature.
- Wear comfortable shoes; the grounds are expansive and worth exploring thoroughly.
- Don’t miss the tea room for a cozy break; their selection of cakes is highly recommended.
Getting There
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Bus
From Durham City Centre, walk to the Durham Bus Station located on North Road. Catch the 20 or 20A bus towards Consett. The journey takes about 25 minutes. Get off at the 'Ushaw College' stop, which is directly outside Ushaw: Historic House, Chapels & Gardens. From the bus stop, you will see the entrance to Ushaw, which is a short walk away.
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Walking
If you're feeling adventurous and want to walk, start from the Durham Cathedral. Head south on The College towards the river. Cross the River Wear via the Elvet Bridge. Continue straight onto the A690. After approximately 1.5 miles, turn left onto Woodland Road. Ushaw: Historic House, Chapels & Gardens will be on your left after about 0.5 miles. This walk takes around 40-50 minutes and offers beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.
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Bicycle
Rent a bicycle from one of the local bike rental shops in Durham City Centre. Cycle along the River Wear towards the A690, then follow the same route as the walking directions. Cycling will take approximately 20-25 minutes, and there are bike racks available at Ushaw for you to secure your bike.
Discover more about Ushaw: Historic House, Chapels & Gardens
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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.
Durham Obelisk
4.9 km
A hidden 90-foot sandstone tower concealed by woodland, marking Durham's forgotten astronomical heritage.
Durham Viaduct
5.1 km
A majestic Victorian railway viaduct soaring over Durham’s River Wear, blending engineering excellence with stunning historic city views.
Durham
5.1 km
Explore Durham Cathedral, a Norman architectural masterpiece and spiritual sanctuary with stunning views, sacred relics, and rich medieval heritage.
Durham British Israel Fellowship
5.3 km
Discover the Durham British Israel Fellowship: A historical church offering community spirit, stunning architecture, and a glimpse into Durham's rich heritage.
Framwellgate Bridge
5.5 km
Durham’s oldest stone bridge, a medieval marvel offering iconic views of the cathedral and river, steeped in history and timeless charm.
Kathedra
5.6 km
Explore the Kathedra in Durham, a stunning gothic stone chair by the river, perfect for history lovers and photography enthusiasts alike.
Market place
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Medieval marketplace meets Victorian grandeur—Durham's beating heart of commerce, culture, and community.
Durham Town Hall
5.6 km
Victorian civic landmark hosting culture, heritage, and community in Durham's historic heart.
Durham Band Stand
6.5 km
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Maiden Castle Earthwork
6.7 km
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Ludworth Tower
13.9 km
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The High Level Bridge
20.2 km
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Newcastle city walls
20.2 km
Medieval stone fortifications protecting a border town from Scottish invasion, now a historic monument woven into Newcastle's urban landscape.
New Bridge Street, Newcastle-upon-Tyne
20.2 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Diggerland Durham
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Broom House Farm Forest Adventure
3.9 km
Navigate woodland obstacles, spot wildlife, and quest for Bark the dragon in this immersive forest adventure.
Flass Vale Local Nature Reserve
4.6 km
A serene ancient woodland reserve on Durham’s edge, rich in wildlife and layered with local history.
Durham Heritage Coast
4.9 km
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Wharton Park
5.0 km
Hilltop sanctuary with cathedral views, playgrounds, and cultural events—Durham's beloved green escape.
Beechnut park
5.1 km
A quiet, family-friendly green space in central Durham, perfect for picnics, play, and peaceful walks among trees and lawns.
The Jubilee Walk
5.1 km
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St Margaret of Antioch Church
5.4 km
Discover Durham’s historic St Margaret of Antioch Church, a Norman gem blending centuries of architecture, art, and vibrant worship near the World Heritage site.
Dun Holm House - Student Accommodation Durham
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Modern riverside student living in Durham with top amenities, vibrant community, and unbeatable access to university and city life.
The Riverwalk
5.4 km
A vibrant riverside shopping and leisure destination in Durham, blending retail, dining, entertainment, and scenic charm.
Aykley Wood Nature Reserve
5.4 km
Tranquil ancient woodland near Durham offering scenic city views, diverse wildlife, and peaceful walking trails year-round.
Revolution Durham
5.5 km
Lively lounge and restaurant on Durham’s riverside offering creative cocktails, seasonal British fare, and rooftop views of historic landmarks.
Riverside walk
5.5 km
Explore Durham’s scenic 3-mile riverside loop with historic bridges, cathedral views, and tranquil green spaces along the River Wear.
Indoor Market
5.6 km
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Prebends Bridge
5.6 km
Experience the beauty and history of Prebends Bridge in Durham, a stunning architectural gem connecting the city to nature's tranquility.
Essential places to dine
Bistro 1819
4.3 km
Training restaurant serving fresh British cuisine with local ingredients and genuine hospitality.
The Stonebridge Inn
4.6 km
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Antico Restaurant Durham
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Holi and Bhang Indian Restaurant & Cocktail Bar, Durham
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The Kingslodge Inn
4.9 km
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The Cartologist
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La Spada Ristorante
5.0 km
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coarse
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Michelin-recognized modern British tasting menus in a cozy Durham setting, blending seasonal flavors with playful presentations.
Nadon Thai - Durham
5.4 km
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TGI Fridays - Durham
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The Food Pit
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Durham’s first street food hall offering diverse global flavors, local vendors, and stunning views of the Castle and Cathedral in a lively, casual setting.
Turtle Bay Durham
5.4 km
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Collage Restaurant
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Estabulo Rodizio Bar & Grill - Durham
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The Curious Mr Fox
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Durham Vintage
4.8 km
Timeless vintage fashion treasures curated with passion in the heart of Langley Moor.
Pears Boutique
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Sasa Girls
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company shop
5.0 km
Durham’s Company Shop offers exclusive membership access to discounted surplus groceries, blending savings with sustainability.
Amazing Antiques Etc. Limited
5.0 km
One of the North East’s largest antique shops, packed with porcelain, furniture and vintage treasures in a 10,000 sq ft emporium near Durham.
The Cutting Edge
5.2 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and local crafts in the historic heart of Durham at The Cutting Edge.
Scarlet Ribbons
5.3 km
Discover unique, locally inspired fashion and accessories at Scarlet Ribbons, a charming boutique in the heart of Durham’s vibrant city centre.
Hidden Boutique at Age UK County Durham
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St News Durham
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Collected
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The Works
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Cloth
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The Record Shed Durham
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WHSmith
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Whittard of Chelsea Durham
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Station House
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33 Durham
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Ye Old Elm Tree
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The Angel
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Babylon Durham
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The Holy GrAle
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The Three Bridges
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The Fighting Cocks
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Old Toms Gin Bar
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Champagne Bar
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Slug & Lettuce - Durham
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The Shakespeare
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Blue Eye
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The Drunken Duck
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Osbournes
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Loft Durham
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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.
Fabio's Bar
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Jimmy Allens
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Klute
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Warehouse Night Club(SR44)
20.0 km
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.
The Social Club
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TheCUT Newcastle
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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.
Bohemia Newcastle
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TROPICANA NEWCASTLE
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Loca Loca | Newcastle
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Flares - Newcastle
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Newcastle's ultimate retro disco den: neon grooves, cheesy anthems, and non-stop dancing from 70s to 00s in the heart of the nightlife scene.
