Elvet Waterside: Riverside Charm in Historic Durham
Discover serene riverside living and stunning views in the heart of historic Durham at Elvet Waterside.
Elvet Waterside is a scenic riverside area in Durham, England, known for its picturesque views along the River Wear and proximity to Durham’s historic city centre. This tranquil spot combines modern riverside living with easy access to cultural landmarks, including Durham Cathedral and the vibrant city core. Visitors enjoy peaceful walks, stunning river vistas, and a blend of residential and student accommodation in a charming urban setting.
A brief summary to Elvet Waterside
- Durham, GB
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Bring comfortable walking shoes to explore the riverside paths and nearby historic sites.
- Visit during spring or summer for the best weather and vibrant outdoor atmosphere.
- Check local bus schedules for easy access to Durham city centre and university campuses.
- Enjoy a meal or coffee at nearby cafes with terraces overlooking the River Wear.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take local buses to New Elvet - Three Tuns bus stop, a 3-minute walk from Elvet Waterside. Buses run frequently throughout the day, with tickets costing around £2-£4 depending on the route.
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Walking
From Durham city centre, enjoy a 15-20 minute walk along mostly flat terrain to Elvet Waterside, passing historic landmarks and riverside views. Suitable for most fitness levels and accessible for wheelchairs.
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Taxi
Local taxi services provide quick access to Elvet Waterside from anywhere in Durham, with typical fares ranging from £5 to £10 depending on distance and time of day.
Elvet Waterside location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Elvet Waterside
Riverside Setting with Historic Backdrop
Elvet Waterside is nestled along the banks of the River Wear, offering visitors and residents sweeping views of the water and the iconic Durham skyline. The river’s gentle flow and the surrounding greenery create a peaceful environment that contrasts beautifully with the bustling city centre just a short distance away. This area provides a unique vantage point to appreciate Durham’s medieval architecture, including the world-famous Durham Cathedral and Castle, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.A Hub for Riverside Living and Student Accommodation
The area features a mix of modern apartments and student housing, making it popular among Durham University students and professionals alike. Many residences boast terraces and balconies overlooking the river, enhancing the appeal of riverside living. The proximity to university campuses and city amenities makes Elvet Waterside a convenient and sought-after location for those who want to combine academic life with scenic surroundings.Leisure and Recreation by the Water
Elvet Waterside is ideal for leisurely strolls along the riverside paths, where the sounds of flowing water and birdlife create a tranquil atmosphere. The nearby cricket ground adds a touch of local sport culture, while cafes and eateries close to the area invite visitors to relax and enjoy the views. This blend of natural beauty and urban convenience makes it a favored spot for both locals and visitors seeking a calm retreat within the city.Architectural Harmony and Urban Character
The architecture in Elvet Waterside harmonizes modern residential design with the historic character of Durham. Buildings here often feature clean, contemporary lines while respecting the traditional aesthetic of the city. This balance creates a visually appealing environment that complements the natural landscape and historic landmarks, contributing to the area’s unique charm.Connectivity and Accessibility
Despite its peaceful setting, Elvet Waterside is well connected to Durham’s transport network. The nearby New Elvet - Three Tuns bus stop provides regular services, facilitating easy access to the city centre and beyond. Walking routes are accessible and mostly flat, making the area suitable for a wide range of visitors. This accessibility enhances Elvet Waterside’s appeal as both a residential and visitor destination.Community and Lifestyle
Elvet Waterside offers a relaxed yet vibrant lifestyle, blending the serenity of riverside living with the cultural richness of Durham. The presence of student accommodations alongside private residences fosters a diverse community atmosphere. Seasonal events in Durham and the surrounding area add a dynamic element to life here, ensuring there is always something to experience while enjoying the calm waterside environment.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Durham Town Hall
0.3 km
Victorian civic landmark hosting culture, heritage, and community in Durham's historic heart.
Market place
0.4 km
Medieval marketplace meets Victorian grandeur—Durham's beating heart of commerce, culture, and community.
Framwellgate Bridge
0.5 km
Durham’s oldest stone bridge, a medieval marvel offering iconic views of the cathedral and river, steeped in history and timeless charm.
Durham Band Stand
0.5 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 British Israel Fellowship
0.7 km
Discover the Durham British Israel Fellowship: A historical church offering community spirit, stunning architecture, and a glimpse into Durham's rich heritage.
Kathedra
0.7 km
Explore the Kathedra in Durham, a stunning gothic stone chair by the river, perfect for history lovers and photography enthusiasts alike.
Durham Viaduct
0.9 km
A majestic Victorian railway viaduct soaring over Durham’s River Wear, blending engineering excellence with stunning historic city views.
Durham
0.9 km
Explore Durham Cathedral, a Norman architectural masterpiece and spiritual sanctuary with stunning views, sacred relics, and rich medieval heritage.
Maiden Castle Earthwork
1.0 km
Explore Durham’s ancient Iron Age promontory fort with its impressive earthworks nestled in tranquil woodland overlooking the River Wear.
Durham Obelisk
1.1 km
A hidden 90-foot sandstone tower concealed by woodland, marking Durham's forgotten astronomical heritage.
Maiden's Bower
1.3 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
7.9 km
A rare 15th-century pele tower standing as a testament to medieval border fortifications
The High Level Bridge
21.4 km
A pioneering double-deck Victorian bridge uniting rail and road across the River Tyne, symbolizing Newcastle’s industrial heritage.
Tyne Bridge
21.4 km
An iconic steel arch bridge spanning the River Tyne, symbolising NewcastleGateshead’s industrial heritage and modern spirit.
Quayside
21.4 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
No 59 Old Elvet
0.1 km
An intimate evening bistro on historic Old Elvet street, blending local heritage with contemporary dining in the heart of Durham.
Durham Big Sing
0.2 km
A joyful community choral event in Durham celebrating inclusive singing and vibrant local music culture.
Elvet Bridge
0.2 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.
Escape Rooms Durham
0.3 km
Immersive puzzle adventures in Durham's historic centre—from spy missions to gothic mysteries.
Umbrella alley
0.3 km
A vibrant canopy of colorful umbrellas brightening Durham’s Millburngate Shopping Centre with artful charm and urban whimsy.
Department of History • Durham University
0.3 km
Explore history where Durham’s rich past meets vibrant academic excellence at the University’s historic North Bailey location.
Durham Market Hall
0.3 km
Victorian market hall where 40+ independent traders celebrate Durham's heritage and local character.
The House of Eden
0.4 km
Discover handmade treasures and personalised gifts in this charming boutique nestled in Durham Market Hall’s vibrant heart.
Durham Pointers
0.4 km
Your welcoming gateway to explore Durham’s rich heritage, cultural events, and local insights from the heart of Market Place.
The Vintage Shop
0.4 km
Discover timeless treasures and vintage charm in the heart of Durham at The Vintage Shop in Market Tavern.
Durham Museum
0.4 km
Medieval heritage and local history in the heart of historic Durham, near the cathedral.
Indoor Market
0.4 km
Discover Durham Market Hall, a lively Victorian indoor market where history, local crafts, and vibrant community spirit come together under one roof.
Durham Castle
0.4 km
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 Classics and Ancient History • Durham University
0.4 km
Classical scholarship in a medieval setting: Durham's premier centre for ancient languages, philosophy, and Mediterranean studies.
World Heritage Site Visitor Centre
0.4 km
Free gateway to understanding Durham's UNESCO World Heritage Site and medieval treasures
Essential places to dine
Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill Durham
0.1 km
Historic charm meets exquisite steakhouse dining in Durham’s unique circular room at Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill.
Notch Durham
0.2 km
Slow-cooked American barbecue and craft cocktails in Durham's vibrant city centre.
The Boat Club & Tomahawk Steakhouse
0.2 km
Discover exquisite steaks and crafted cocktails at The Boat Club & Tomahawk Steakhouse on Elvet Riverside - where taste meets tranquility.
The Townhouse Restaurant
0.2 km
A chic and intimate spot in Durham serving modern British cuisine with a stylish, welcoming atmosphere.
19Twenty Bar & Grill
0.2 km
Modern grill and cocktail bar on Durham’s Elvet Bridge, serving gourmet burgers and steaks with scenic riverside views.
Restaurant 17
0.2 km
Boutique dining below Elvet Bridge offering world-inspired dishes in an intimate, candlelit setting with fresh local ingredients.
Bistro Italiano
0.2 km
Authentic Italian flavors served with warmth and charm in the heart of Durham’s historic district.
Tia’s
0.2 km
Authentic Mexican and Mediterranean flavors with a dedicated vegan menu and friendly service in the heart of Durham.
Tapas Factory
0.3 km
Authentic Spanish tapas and Mediterranean flavors in Durham's vibrant city center.
Zen
0.3 km
Experience authentic Asian fusion cuisine in a stylish Durham setting, blending traditional flavours with modern flair.
Zizzi - Durham
0.3 km
Modern Italian dining in the heart of Durham – wood-fired pizzas, fresh pasta, and a relaxed atmosphere just steps from the cathedral.
Tango Durham
0.3 km
Lively American-style burgers, fresh local produce, and creative cocktails in Durham’s vibrant city centre with riverside terrace dining.
The Cellar Door
0.3 km
Historic riverside dining with seasonal Modern European cuisine and scenic terraces in the heart of Durham.
Fat Hippo Durham
0.3 km
Savor bold, inventive burgers in a quirky multi-level venue on historic Saddler Street, Durham’s heart of casual dining.
Flat White Kitchen
0.3 km
Experience Durham’s finest coffee and brunch in a cozy 17th-century townhouse with a modern rustic vibe and welcoming atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
7 Day Store
0.2 km
Discover authentic Asian flavors and ingredients at Durham’s vibrant 7 Day Store, open daily for your culinary adventures.
TJ Hughes
0.2 km
Durham’s trusted discount department store offering top brands in home, fashion, and electronics at unbeatable prices.
Prince Bishops Place
0.2 km
Durham’s vibrant shopping centre blending high street brands, local boutiques, and award-winning facilities in the city’s historic heart.
Oxfam Shop
0.2 km
Discover pre-loved books, music, and more at Durham’s Oxfam Shop—where every purchase supports global poverty relief and sustainability.
Discovering Durham CIC
0.2 km
Empowering Durham’s local producers through unique crafts, gifts, and community-driven retail on historic High Street.
Elvet & Bailey
0.2 km
Discover unique handmade gifts and local artisan treasures at Elvet & Bailey, Durham’s beloved boutique in Prince Bishops Shopping Centre.
Rohan Durham - Outdoor Clothing & Walking Gear
0.3 km
Discover Rohan Durham, your premier destination for high-quality outdoor clothing and gear, perfect for every adventurer in the beautiful English countryside.
Circle Vintage Durham
0.3 km
Discover Durham’s largest curated vintage clothing collection in a charming historic boutique on Saddler Street.
Waceland Durham
0.3 km
Discover handpicked vintage gems and streetwear essentials in a family-run boutique at the heart of Durham’s Saddler Street.
The Mugwump
0.3 km
Discover Durham’s iconic boutique blending vintage fashion, unique gifts, and local art in a charming historic setting.
The Georgian Window
0.3 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
0.3 km
Discover elegant Italian fashion in Durham’s historic Georgian window boutique, blending timeless style with personalized service.
BEAR BOTTOM
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts, collectibles, and local craftsmanship at Bear Bottom, Durham’s beloved indoor market shop.
The Boathouse
0.3 km
Discover unique clothing and accessories at The Boathouse in Durham, a charming shop showcasing local designs and a welcoming atmosphere.
People's Bookshop Durham
0.3 km
Discover Durham’s vibrant radical bookshop, a volunteer-run haven for second-hand books and community stories.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Swan & Three Cygnets
0.1 km
Traditional riverside pub with a no-technology policy, affordable drinks, and cosy charm beside Durham’s historic Elvet Bridge.
The Half Moon Inn
0.1 km
Historic Tudor pub on Durham’s riverside offering award-winning ales, scenic courtyard views, and a warm local atmosphere.
Dun Cow Durham
0.2 km
Historic Durham pub famed for traditional ales, Tudor Revival interiors, and a warm, authentic local atmosphere.
Tin Of Sardines Gin Bar - Durham
0.2 km
Discover Durham’s tiniest gin bar with a colossal selection, expert service, and an intimate, unforgettable atmosphere on Elvet Bridge.
Osbournes
0.2 km
A vibrant, intimate bar and club in Durham known for its lively music nights, extensive gin selection, and welcoming local vibe.
The Library
0.3 km
A lively pub and social hub in Durham offering quality drinks, creative vegan dishes, and a quirky, welcoming atmosphere from morning till late.
Blue Eye
0.3 km
Durham’s stylish cocktail bar with creative drinks, lively vibes, and a welcoming atmosphere on historic Elvet Bridge.
The Drunken Duck
0.3 km
A welcoming and lively British pub in Durham's heart, offering quality drinks and a classic atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
The Shakespeare
0.3 km
A historic and quirky Durham pub famed for its real ales, theatrical roots, and ghostly tales in a cosy 12th-century setting.
The Woodman Inn - Durham
0.4 km
A traditional Durham pub with a spacious beer garden, diverse drinks, and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Champagne Bar
0.4 km
Sophisticated vintage champagnes and crafted cocktails in Durham’s vibrant Walkergate, blending chic style with welcoming warmth.
Slug & Lettuce - Durham
0.4 km
Lively cocktail bar and restaurant in Durham’s city center, perfect for social drinks, tasty meals, and vibrant events year-round.
24 North Bailey Club
0.5 km
Durham students’ beloved late-night bar and social club, blending historic charm with lively events on the iconic North Bailey.
Old Toms Gin Bar
0.5 km
Discover Durham’s riverside gem with over 250 gins, artisan boards, and expert Ginologists crafting unforgettable cocktails.
The Fighting Cocks
0.5 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
0.2 km
Durham’s iconic, unapologetically rough nightclub famed for nostalgic beats, cheap drinks, and a legendary student party atmosphere.
Jimmy Allens
0.2 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
0.3 km
Durham’s lively student nightclub and live music bar above the iconic La Spaghettata, buzzing with events and authentic local charm.
Bohemia Durham
0.4 km
Bohemia Durham pulses with vibrant nightlife energy, offering dynamic music and a lively social scene in the heart of historic Durham.
Loft Durham
0.6 km
Discover Loft Durham, the ultimate nightlife destination offering vibrant music, energetic dancing, and a chic atmosphere in the heart of Durham.
7even Nightclub
18.4 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)
21.4 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant underground gay nightclub scene at Warehouse Night Club (SR44), where eclectic music and lively parties come alive.
Digital
21.5 km
Experience cutting-edge nightlife with superior sound and vibrant energy at Digital, Newcastle’s premier clubbing destination in Times Square.
Powerhouse
21.6 km
Newcastle’s iconic four-floor nightclub blending rich LGBTQ+ history with vibrant, inclusive nightlife and dynamic music scenes.
TheCUT Newcastle
21.7 km
Discover Newcastle’s vibrant alternative nightclub with themed indie, rock, and disco nights in a cozy, unpretentious setting.
Tup Tup Palace
21.7 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
21.7 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at The Social Club, where music, cocktails, and dancing come alive until the early hours.
Bohemia Newcastle
21.7 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
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.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
