National Trust - Crook Hall Gardens, Durham
Explore historic gardens and a medieval hall with tranquil views of Durham Cathedral, plus a charming café and wildlife-rich oasis.
Crook Hall Gardens, managed by the National Trust, is a stunning 10-acre garden set against the backdrop of a Grade I listed medieval hall in Durham. Visitors can explore interlinking gardens with unique styles, a maze, a secret walled garden, an orchard, and a wildlife-rich moat pool. The site features tranquil seating areas with views of Durham Cathedral and a welcoming Garden Gate Café offering refreshments. The gardens are accessible and dog-friendly, making it a peaceful urban oasis close to Durham city centre.
A brief summary to National Trust - Crook Hall Gardens
- Frankland Ln, Sidegate, Durham, Durham, DH1 5SZ, GB
- +441913831832
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Sunday 10 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Visit on weekday mornings for a quieter experience and more peaceful garden exploration.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in the garden’s many tranquil seating areas when weather permits.
- Allow 2 to 3 hours to fully explore the gardens, maze, and medieval hall.
- Dogs on short leads are welcome in the gardens and café, but only assistance dogs are allowed in the medieval hall.
- Check seasonal opening times and special events on the National Trust website before visiting.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Durham Station, take a 15-minute walk following signs through North Road and the riverside to Crook Hall Gardens. Frequent local buses also serve stops near the city centre, with a short walk to the gardens. No direct bus service to the site; walking is recommended from central Durham.
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Car
Drive to Crook Hall Gardens via Frankland Lane where a pay-and-display car park is available. Parking costs £3 for up to 3 hours, free for National Trust members. Blue Badge parking spaces are provided. The car park serves only garden visitors; overflow parking is limited.
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Walking
The gardens are a pleasant 15-minute walk from Durham city centre along mostly flat, paved paths suitable for most visitors. Some garden paths are narrow or uneven, so sturdy footwear is advised.
National Trust - Crook Hall Gardens 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 National Trust - Crook Hall Gardens
A Historic Setting in the Heart of Durham
Crook Hall Gardens is anchored by a remarkable Grade I listed medieval hall that dates back centuries, merging architectural eras from medieval to Jacobean and Georgian periods. This historic hall, once a private residence, now provides a dramatic and atmospheric backdrop to the gardens. The hall itself is partially open to visitors, offering a glimpse into the grandeur and lifestyle of past centuries. Its proximity to Durham Cathedral enhances the site's cultural significance and offers spectacular views of the city skyline.Gardens of Distinctive Character and Serenity
Spanning approximately 10 acres, Crook Hall Gardens features a series of interconnected garden spaces, each with its own unique character. Visitors can wander through a maze, discover a secret walled garden, and enjoy the orchard bursting with seasonal blossoms. The gardens also include a wildlife-rich moat pool that supports frogs, newts, and dragonflies, contributing to the site's biodiversity. Winding paths lead to tranquil seating areas, perfect for quiet reflection amid the lush greenery.Visitor Amenities and Experiences
The Garden Gate Café, located near the entrance, offers a variety of hot and cold drinks, light bites, cakes, and ice cream. Visitors can enjoy their refreshments indoors or on the outdoor terrace. A second-hand bookshop housed in the Jacobean Room invites visitors to browse and purchase books, supporting the garden’s upkeep. The gardens are dog-friendly (dogs on short leads welcome), and accessible toilet facilities with baby changing are available in the café. While some garden paths are uneven or narrow, level access is provided from the car park to the main garden area via an incline.Seasonal Highlights and Events
Throughout the year, Crook Hall Gardens showcases seasonal floral displays, including roses, phlox, oriental poppies, and magnolias, which create vibrant and fragrant scenes. The orchard bursts into blossom in spring, while the moat pool teems with wildlife in warmer months. The National Trust hosts free guided tours and garden talks on selected days, offering deeper insights into the gardens’ history, horticulture, and sustainable practices. Special events such as floral workshops and festive illuminations add to the visitor experience.Access and Practical Information
Crook Hall Gardens is conveniently located just a 15-minute walk from Durham city centre, making it easily accessible for visitors. The site has a pay-and-display car park, with free parking for National Trust members and a modest fee for others. Public transport options include nearby Durham Station and local bus services. The gardens are open daily from 10am to 5pm during the main season, with reduced hours in late autumn and winter. Admission fees apply, but National Trust members and RHS members enjoy free entry.A Tranquil Urban Oasis with Historic Charm
This National Trust property offers a peaceful retreat from the bustle of Durham city, blending rich history, horticultural beauty, and wildlife habitat. The gardens’ varied landscapes and historic architecture create a unique atmosphere that invites exploration and relaxation. Whether enjoying a quiet moment by the moat, navigating the maze, or savoring a treat at the café, visitors find a welcoming and enriching experience at Crook Hall Gardens.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Durham Town Hall
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Market place
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Durham British Israel Fellowship
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Framwellgate Bridge
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Durham Obelisk
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Durham Viaduct
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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.
Maiden's Bower
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Kathedra
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Maiden Castle Earthwork
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Ludworth Tower
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A rare 15th-century pele tower standing as a testament to medieval border fortifications
The High Level Bridge
20.7 km
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Tyne Bridge
20.8 km
An iconic steel arch bridge spanning the River Tyne, symbolising NewcastleGateshead’s industrial heritage and modern spirit.
Quayside
20.8 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
The Jubilee Walk
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Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of The Jubilee Walk in Aykley Heads, Durham, a perfect escape for nature lovers and families alike.
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.
Durham Market Hall
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Victorian market hall where 40+ independent traders celebrate Durham's heritage and local character.
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.
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.
Dun Holm House - Student Accommodation Durham
0.6 km
Modern riverside student living in Durham with top amenities, vibrant community, and unbeatable access to university and city life.
Umbrella alley
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A vibrant canopy of colorful umbrellas brightening Durham’s Millburngate Shopping Centre with artful charm and urban whimsy.
Wharton Park
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Hilltop sanctuary with cathedral views, playgrounds, and cultural events—Durham's beloved green escape.
The Riverwalk
0.6 km
A vibrant riverside shopping and leisure destination in Durham, blending retail, dining, entertainment, and scenic charm.
Elvet Waterside
0.7 km
Scenic riverside charm meets historic Durham city life at Elvet Waterside, a tranquil urban retreat by the iconic Elvet Bridge.
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.
Escape Rooms Durham
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Immersive puzzle adventures in Durham's historic centre—from spy missions to gothic mysteries.
Aykley Wood Nature Reserve
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Tranquil ancient woodland near Durham offering scenic city views, diverse wildlife, and peaceful walking trails year-round.
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.
Essential places to dine
Collage Restaurant
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Rio Brazilian Steakhouse
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Bistro Italiano
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ASK Italian
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Tia’s
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Spice Lounge
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Turtle Bay Durham
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Experience vibrant Caribbean flavours and tropical cocktails by the scenic Riverwalk in Durham’s lively Turtle Bay restaurant.
Pizza Punks Durham
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Estabulo Rodizio Bar & Grill - Durham
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Uno Momento
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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.
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.
Tapas Factory
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PESTO ITALIANO
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Experience authentic Italian cuisine with warm hospitality in the heart of historic Durham at Pesto Italiano.
Gussto Tapas Bar - Durham
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Gateway World Shop
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The Record Shed Durham
0.5 km
Discover Durham’s vinyl paradise in the heart of Market Place, where music lovers find rare records, retro games, and expert media services.
WHSmith
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Books, stationery, and local treasures in Durham's vibrant Market Place.
Prince Bishops Place
0.6 km
Durham’s vibrant shopping centre blending high street brands, local boutiques, and award-winning facilities in the city’s historic heart.
TJ Hughes
0.6 km
Durham’s trusted discount department store offering top brands in home, fashion, and electronics at unbeatable prices.
Discovering Durham CIC
0.6 km
Empowering Durham’s local producers through unique crafts, gifts, and community-driven retail on historic High Street.
Whittard of Chelsea Durham
0.6 km
Premium tea, coffee, and gifts in Durham's historic Market Place—where expertise meets elegance.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Rohan Durham - Outdoor Clothing & Walking Gear
0.6 km
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Waceland Durham
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Slug & Lettuce - Durham
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Champagne Bar
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The Drunken Duck
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The Woodman Inn - Durham
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Blue Eye
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Tin Of Sardines Gin Bar - Durham
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Discover Durham’s tiniest gin bar with a colossal selection, expert service, and an intimate, unforgettable atmosphere on Elvet Bridge.
Osbournes
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A vibrant, intimate bar and club in Durham known for its lively music nights, extensive gin selection, and welcoming local vibe.
The Shakespeare
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The Three Bridges
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Swan & Three Cygnets
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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.
Babylon Durham
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The Library
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The Station House
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Discover Durham’s artisan real ale gem with a cozy communal vibe and award-winning ciders served straight from the barrel.
33 Durham
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Bohemia Durham
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Fabio's Bar
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Jimmy Allens
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Klute
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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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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
21.1 km
Experience Newcastle’s vibrant nightlife at The Social Club, where music, cocktails, and dancing come alive until the early hours.
Bohemia Newcastle
21.1 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
21.1 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
21.1 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
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
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
