Arnison Centre, Durham
A comprehensive shopping destination north of Durham city centre, blending major retailers, dining, and easy access in a modern retail park.
The Arnison Centre is a large, modern shopping destination located just north of Durham city centre in Pity Me. It combines the former Arnison Retail Park and Mercia Retail Park to offer a comprehensive shopping environment with major retailers like M&S, River Island, Next, Nike, Boots, and Sainsbury’s. With a variety of food outlets, free parking, and extended opening hours, it serves as a convenient retail hub for locals and visitors alike.
A brief summary to Arnison Centre
- Durham, Pity Me, DH1 5GD, GB
- +441618285770
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 8 am-10 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-10 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-10 pm
- Thursday 8 am-8 pm
- Friday 8 am-10 pm
- Saturday 8 am-10 pm
- Sunday 11 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Take advantage of the four hours of free parking available for Arnison Centre customers.
- Check individual store opening times as some shops may have slightly different hours from the centre’s general schedule.
- Visit the food outlets like Costa Coffee or M&S Café for a comfortable break during your shopping trip.
- Use public buses (routes 62, 64, 552, 553, 555) from Durham city centre for convenient access without a car.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Arnison Centre location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Arnison Centre
A Hub of Retail Variety and Convenience
The Arnison Centre stands as a prominent shopping complex situated approximately three miles north of Durham city centre, in the suburb of Pity Me. It is the result of an extension and amalgamation of the original Arnison Retail Park with the former Mercia Retail Park, creating a large, unified shopping environment. This centre caters to a broad spectrum of shopping needs, hosting major high-street brands such as Marks & Spencer, River Island, Next, Nike, Boots, JD Sports, and Sainsbury’s, alongside many other specialist stores. The presence of these retailers makes Arnison a one-stop destination for fashion, beauty, groceries, and lifestyle products.Dining and Leisure Options Within the Centre
Beyond shopping, the Arnison Centre offers a variety of food and drink outlets to complement the retail experience. Visitors can enjoy popular chains like Costa Coffee, Greggs, Marks & Spencer Café, and McDonald’s, providing options for quick snacks, casual meals, or coffee breaks. This blend of retail and dining ensures that shoppers can comfortably spend extended periods at the centre, making it suitable for both quick visits and leisurely days out.Accessibility and Location Benefits
Located on the outskirts of Durham, the Arnison Centre benefits from excellent accessibility. It is easily reachable by car via the A167, with clear signage near Pity Me and ample parking facilities offering up to four hours of free parking for customers. Public transport options include several bus routes (62, 64, 552, 553, 555) connecting the centre to Durham city and surrounding areas, while the nearest train station is Durham, with onward bus connections to Arnison. This accessibility makes the centre a convenient destination for both local residents and visitors from further afield.Operating Hours and Customer Services
The Arnison Centre maintains extended opening hours to accommodate various shopping schedules. Typical hours are Monday to Friday from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm, Saturdays also 8:00 am to 8:00 pm, and Sundays from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm. Individual store hours may vary, with some retailers like River Island and Boots operating slightly different schedules. The centre also provides customer amenities such as restrooms, seating areas, and information boards to enhance the shopping experience.Community Role and Atmosphere
As a key retail hub in the Durham area, Arnison Centre serves not only as a shopping destination but also as a social and community space. Its blend of well-known brands and accessible facilities attracts a diverse crowd, from families and seniors to young adults. The centre’s spacious layout and variety of shops create a lively yet relaxed atmosphere, making it a popular spot for everyday errands or casual outings.Future Prospects and Developments
The Arnison Centre continues to evolve with retail trends and customer needs, having undergone expansions to incorporate more stores and services. Its strategic location and comprehensive offerings position it well for ongoing relevance in the region’s retail landscape. Visitors can expect a modern shopping environment that balances convenience, variety, and comfort.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Durham Obelisk
2.9 km
A hidden 90-foot sandstone tower concealed by woodland, marking Durham's forgotten astronomical heritage.
Maiden's Bower
3.3 km
Explore Maiden's Bower, a serene Bronze Age cairn nestled in Durham's Flass Vale, where ancient history meets tranquil woodland beauty.
Dun Holm House - Student Accommodation Durham
3.3 km
Experience modern student living at Dun Holm House, a vibrant student accommodation in the heart of historic Durham, surrounded by culture and community.
Durham Viaduct
3.3 km
A majestic Victorian railway viaduct soaring over Durham’s River Wear, blending engineering excellence with stunning historic city views.
Durham Town Hall
3.4 km
Victorian civic landmark hosting culture, heritage, and community in Durham's historic heart.
Durham British Israel Fellowship
3.4 km
Discover the Durham British Israel Fellowship: A historical church offering community spirit, stunning architecture, and a glimpse into Durham's rich heritage.
Durham Pointers
3.4 km
Explore Durham's rich history and vibrant culture with expert guidance at Durham Pointers, your essential Tourist Information Centre.
Market place
3.4 km
Medieval marketplace meets Victorian grandeur—Durham's beating heart of commerce, culture, and community.
Framwellgate Bridge
3.5 km
Durham’s oldest stone bridge, a medieval marvel offering iconic views of the cathedral and river, steeped in history and timeless charm.
St Margaret of Antioch Church
3.5 km
Discover the serene charm of St Margaret of Antioch Church in Durham, a beautiful Anglican church rich in history and tranquility.
Durham
3.6 km
Explore Durham Cathedral, a Norman architectural masterpiece and spiritual sanctuary with stunning views, sacred relics, and rich medieval heritage.
Department of Classics and Ancient History • Durham University
3.7 km
Uncover the wonders of ancient civilizations at Durham University's Department of Classics and Ancient History, a hub for knowledge and discovery.
Durham Band Stand
3.7 km
A peaceful riverside bandstand with one of Durham’s most iconic cathedral views, perfect for quiet moments and photography by the River Wear.
Kathedra
4.0 km
Explore the Kathedra in Durham, a stunning gothic stone chair by the river, perfect for history lovers and photography enthusiasts alike.
Maiden Castle Earthwork
4.4 km
Explore Durham’s ancient Iron Age promontory fort with its impressive earthworks nestled in tranquil woodland overlooking the River Wear.
Unmissable attractions to see
Durham Heritage Coast
2.4 km
Explore dramatic cliffs, wild beaches, and rich heritage along England’s stunning Durham Heritage Coast.
Adventure Valley
2.6 km
Explore over 50 family-friendly attractions, indoor play zones, and farmyard fun at the North East’s largest adventure park in Durham.
The Jubilee Walk
2.7 km
Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of The Jubilee Walk in Aykley Heads, Durham, a perfect escape for nature lovers and families alike.
Finchale Priory
2.8 km
Explore the serene 13th-century ruins of Finchale Priory, a riverside medieval retreat steeped in history and surrounded by tranquil woodlands.
National Trust - Crook Hall Gardens
2.9 km
Explore Durham’s historic Crook Hall Gardens, a tranquil National Trust haven blending medieval heritage with stunning gardens and city views.
Wharton Park
3.0 km
Hilltop sanctuary with cathedral views, playgrounds, and cultural events—Durham's beloved green escape.
Flass Vale Local Nature Reserve
3.2 km
A serene ancient woodland reserve on Durham’s edge, rich in wildlife and layered with local history.
Dun Holm House - Student Accommodation Durham
3.3 km
Modern riverside student living in Durham with top amenities, vibrant community, and unbeatable access to university and city life.
Indoor Market
3.4 km
Discover Durham Market Hall, a lively Victorian indoor market where history, local crafts, and vibrant community spirit come together under one roof.
The House of Eden
3.4 km
Discover handmade treasures and personalised gifts in this charming boutique nestled in Durham Market Hall’s vibrant heart.
Durham Pointers
3.4 km
Your welcoming gateway to explore Durham’s rich heritage, cultural events, and local insights from the heart of Market Place.
Durham Market Hall
3.4 km
Victorian market hall where 40+ independent traders celebrate Durham's heritage and local character.
The Vintage Shop
3.4 km
Discover timeless treasures and vintage charm in the heart of Durham at The Vintage Shop in Market Tavern.
The Riverwalk
3.4 km
A vibrant riverside shopping and leisure destination in Durham, blending retail, dining, entertainment, and scenic charm.
Umbrella alley
3.4 km
A vibrant canopy of colorful umbrellas brightening Durham’s Millburngate Shopping Centre with artful charm and urban whimsy.
Essential places to dine
La Spada Ristorante
0.6 km
Authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality await you at La Spada Ristorante in Durham’s Pity Me.
Bistro 1819
1.6 km
Training restaurant serving fresh British cuisine with local ingredients and genuine hospitality.
The Cartologist
2.7 km
A vibrant Durham restaurant and hotel blending local cuisine, bespoke cocktails, and cozy comfort in a charming city setting.
Collage Restaurant
3.1 km
A modern, relaxed hotel restaurant in Durham serving hearty British breakfasts and classic dinner dishes in a bright, contemporary setting.
The Kingslodge Inn
3.2 km
A traditional inn offering cozy rooms, hearty dining, and warm hospitality just steps from Durham’s historic heart.
Rio Brazilian Steakhouse
3.2 km
Authentic Brazilian Churrasco with tableside carving, jungle-inspired ambience, and award-winning service in Durham city centre.
Bistro Italiano
3.3 km
Authentic Italian flavors served with warmth and charm in the heart of Durham’s historic district.
ASK Italian
3.3 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors with a modern twist in Durham’s vibrant city centre, featuring vegan options and local Durham Gin.
Turtle Bay Durham
3.3 km
Experience vibrant Caribbean flavours and tropical cocktails by the scenic Riverwalk in Durham’s lively Turtle Bay restaurant.
Tia’s
3.3 km
Authentic Mexican and Mediterranean flavors with a dedicated vegan menu and friendly service in the heart of Durham.
Pizza Punks Durham
3.3 km
Unleash your creativity with unlimited toppings on award-winning sourdough pizzas in a vibrant riverside setting at Pizza Punks Durham.
Broomside park Beefeater
3.3 km
Durham’s go-to grill and pub for hearty British classics, family-friendly dining, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Little Sicily
3.3 km
Authentic Sicilian Italian restaurant in Durham offering fresh, affordable dishes in a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.
Spice Lounge
3.3 km
Award-winning Indian cuisine with authentic homestyle curries in Durham’s charming Market Place.
Estabulo Rodizio Bar & Grill - Durham
3.4 km
Savor unlimited flame-grilled Brazilian meats carved tableside in a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere on Durham’s scenic River Walk.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Arnison Centre
0.0 km
A comprehensive shopping destination north of Durham city centre, blending major retailers, dining, and easy access in a modern retail park.
The Works
0.1 km
Affordable books, crafts, toys, and stationery in a bright, easy-to-navigate store at Arnison Retail Park, perfect for families, students, and gift shoppers.
company shop
3.3 km
Durham’s Company Shop offers exclusive membership access to discounted surplus groceries, blending savings with sustainability.
The Record Shed Durham
3.4 km
Discover Durham’s vinyl paradise in the heart of Market Place, where music lovers find rare records, retro games, and expert media services.
Gateway World Shop
3.4 km
A charming craft shop in Durham’s historic gateway, offering fair trade pottery, jewellery, textiles, and handmade gifts from around the world.
Hidden Boutique at Age UK County Durham
3.4 km
Discover unique vintage and designer fashion supporting Age UK’s mission in the heart of Durham’s vibrant city centre.
St News Durham
3.4 km
Discover local delights and essentials at St News Durham, your ultimate convenience store in the heart of the city.
Scarlet Ribbons
3.4 km
Discover unique, locally inspired fashion and accessories at Scarlet Ribbons, a charming boutique in the heart of Durham’s vibrant city centre.
WHSmith
3.4 km
Books, stationery, and local treasures in Durham's vibrant Market Place.
Whittard of Chelsea Durham
3.4 km
Premium tea, coffee, and gifts in Durham's historic Market Place—where expertise meets elegance.
Prince Bishops Place
3.4 km
Durham’s vibrant shopping centre blending high street brands, local boutiques, and award-winning facilities in the city’s historic heart.
TJ Hughes
3.4 km
Durham’s trusted discount department store offering top brands in home, fashion, and electronics at unbeatable prices.
Discovering Durham CIC
3.4 km
Empowering Durham’s local producers through unique crafts, gifts, and community-driven retail on historic High Street.
BEAR BOTTOM
3.4 km
Discover unique gifts, collectibles, and local craftsmanship at Bear Bottom, Durham’s beloved indoor market shop.
Collected
3.4 km
A warm, independent bookshop in Durham with curated reads, coffee, cakes, and a lively events programme on The Riverwalk.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Slug & Lettuce - Durham
3.2 km
Lively cocktail bar and restaurant in Durham’s city center, perfect for social drinks, tasty meals, and vibrant events year-round.
Champagne Bar
3.2 km
Sophisticated vintage champagnes and crafted cocktails in Durham’s vibrant Walkergate, blending chic style with welcoming warmth.
The Station House
3.2 km
Discover Durham’s artisan real ale gem with a cozy communal vibe and award-winning ciders served straight from the barrel.
The Woodman Inn - Durham
3.3 km
A traditional Durham pub with a spacious beer garden, diverse drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
The Drunken Duck
3.3 km
A welcoming and lively British pub in Durham's heart, offering quality drinks and a classic atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
33 Durham
3.4 km
Discover 33 Durham, a cozy speakeasy cocktail bar blending vintage charm with expertly crafted drinks in the heart of Durham city.
Babylon Durham
3.4 km
A buzzing, budget-friendly bar and nightclub in Durham offering lively nights, packed dance floors, and a true local nightlife experience.
The Three Bridges
3.4 km
A lively British pub in Durham blending traditional charm with modern dining, drinks, and sports in a welcoming atmosphere.
Old Toms Gin Bar
3.5 km
Discover Durham’s riverside gem with over 250 gins, artisan boards, and expert Ginologists crafting unforgettable cocktails.
The Holy GrAle
3.5 km
Discover Durham’s vibrant craft beer scene at The Holy GrAle, a quirky bar with local brews, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Blue Eye
3.5 km
Durham’s stylish cocktail bar with creative drinks, lively vibes, and a welcoming atmosphere on historic Elvet Bridge.
The Angel
3.5 km
A cozy and vibrant traditional pub in Durham, offering local ales, hearty meals, and lively events in a welcoming atmosphere.
Tin Of Sardines Gin Bar - Durham
3.5 km
Discover Durham’s tiniest gin bar with a colossal selection, expert service, and an intimate, unforgettable atmosphere on Elvet Bridge.
The Fighting Cocks
3.5 km
A lively, affordable pub in Durham’s city centre, perfect for casual drinks and socializing in a friendly, unpretentious setting.
The Shakespeare
3.5 km
A historic and quirky Durham pub famed for its real ales, theatrical roots, and ghostly tales in a cosy 12th-century setting.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Casual
- Lively
- Relaxing
- Fun-filled
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
