Prince Bishops Place, Durham Travel Guide

Prince Bishops Place stands as Durham’s foremost shopping destination, perfectly situated in the city centre near the historic market place. Established in the late 1990s, this horse-shoe shaped shopping centre revitalised the retail landscape of Durham by blending contemporary shopping conveniences with the city’s rich cultural heritage. The centre’s location places it just minutes from iconic landmarks such as Durham Cathedral and Castle, part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it a natural hub for visitors exploring the city.

Inside Prince Bishops Place, shoppers find a diverse array of stores ranging from popular high street names like Next, JD Sports, Pandora, and Boots to local independent retailers championing regional products. Beyond shopping, the centre offers a variety of dining experiences including the artisan coffee of Costa Coffee, the elegant afternoon teas at Patisserie Valerie, and the relaxed atmosphere of Whisky River cocktail bar. Food lovers can also enjoy local delicacies at specialty outlets such as The Picnic Basket and A Local Love, which supports local food producers.

Beneath the shopping centre lies a spacious, award-winning car park with 400 spaces, including 22 accessible bays. This underground facility features modern amenities such as automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) and contactless payment options, making parking seamless and secure. The car park’s proximity to key city attractions makes it the preferred choice for visitors arriving by car. Accessibility is further enhanced by on-site lifts and the Durham Shopmobility Scheme, which offers mobility aids to those who need them.

Prince Bishops Place is more than a shopping centre; it is a vibrant community space that frequently hosts events and exhibitions, including pop-up shops during the Durham Fringe Festival and art displays that enrich the cultural fabric of the city. The centre actively supports local businesses and artisans, fostering a retail environment that is both fresh and relevant to Durham’s residents, students, and visitors.

The centre operates from 9am to 5:30pm Monday through Saturday, with reduced hours on Sundays and bank holidays. Visitors can expect a welcoming atmosphere with clean facilities, public toilets, and helpful information boards. The blend of quirky shops, cafes, and essential services creates a lively yet relaxed ambience, ideal for a casual day of shopping or a leisurely break in the city.

Easily accessible by car, bus, and train, Prince Bishops Place is well connected to the wider region. It lies within walking distance of Durham Railway Station and benefits from regular bus services linking the city centre to surrounding areas. The centre’s central location and excellent transport links make it a convenient base for exploring Durham’s historic and cultural landmarks.