Top reasons to visit Durham
- Historic City Center: Explore Durham's rich history with its stunning architecture and friendly locals who share fascinating stories.
- Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy a variety of activities in beautiful parks and picturesque landscapes, perfect for nature enthusiasts.
- Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in vibrant campus events, concerts, and local traditions that showcase Durham's cultural richness.
- Charming Neighborhoods: Visit nearby charming villages for a relaxing, family-friendly atmosphere and hidden gems.
- Diverse Accommodation: Choose from pet-friendly hotels, guesthouses, and motels that cater to every traveler's needs.
Find great hotels near Durham
Experience the charm of Durham, England, with a variety of accommodation options tailored for every traveler. Whether you're seeking pet-friendly hotels, comfortable guesthouses, or convenient motels, you'll find a welcoming place to unwind. From family-friendly stays to business travel solutions, Durham offers a selection of the best hotels and lodgings near the city's historic sites, ensuring a memorable visit for all. Discover the perfect base for your adventures in this picturesque region.
- Leonardo Hotel Newcastle: A 4-star hotel with a guest rating of 8.2, Leonardo Hotel Newcastle is located 13 miles from Durham and caters to adventurous travelers seeking eco-friendly experiences. This property stands out with its eco-certification and a variety of adventure sports such as mountain biking, kayaking, windsurfing, sailing, and hiking available nearby. The hotel offers a vibrant atmosphere for those eager to explore the great outdoors while enjoying comfortable accommodations.
- Leonardo Hotel Newcastle Quayside: Also rated 4 stars with a guest rating of 8.2, Leonardo Hotel Newcastle Quayside is an ideal choice for families visiting the area, situated 13 miles from Durham. This eco-certified hotel ensures a welcoming environment for eco-conscious travelers and offers amenities tailored for children, including complimentary cribs. Families can enjoy the scenic views of the Quayside while benefiting from the hotel’s family-friendly services, making it a perfect base for family adventures.
- Copthorne Hotel Newcastle: With a higher guest rating of 8.8, Copthorne Hotel Newcastle, located 13 miles from Durham, is a top-rated 4-star hotel that appeals to business travelers as well as eco-conscious visitors. The hotel's eco-certification reflects its commitment to sustainability. Guests appreciate the well-appointed rooms and excellent service, making it a solid option for those looking to blend business with comfort during their stay in the region.
Where to stay in Durham
Durham, England, offers a rich blend of history and culture, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Explore the historic city center, where friendly locals share stories of its past, or venture to nearby charming neighborhoods for a relaxing family-friendly atmosphere. Just a short drive away, you can discover picturesque landscapes and hidden gems that make Durham an unforgettable travel destination.
- Lanchester: Nestled in the scenic countryside of County Durham, Lanchester is a charming village that offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and rich history. Visitors flock here for its breathtaking landscapes and recreational opportunities, especially during the peak months of April, July, and September. The village features a variety of attractions, including a history museum and access to a national park, making it perfect for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Families will appreciate the local playground and arcade adventure zone, ensuring fun for all ages.
- Framwellgate Moor: Located near Durham City, Framwellgate Moor is a vibrant village celebrated for its cultural and educational offerings. The area experiences a surge of visitors from July to September, drawn by its rich history and remarkable architecture, including both historic and modern college universities. The village is perfect for those keen on immersing themselves in a culturally themed experience, with educational venues at every turn, making it an ideal spot for learners and explorers alike.
- Shincliffe: A picturesque village close to Durham, Shincliffe is known for its stunning outdoor scenery and adventure opportunities. With peak visitor numbers in March to April and September, it's a popular destination for those seeking a blend of education and recreation. The village is home to a national state park and a planetarium observatory, making it an enchanting place for stargazers and nature lovers. Shincliffe's proximity to renowned colleges adds an intellectual charm, ensuring a well-rounded travel experience.
Things to do in Durham
Durham, England, is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. Enjoy a variety of activities such as educational experiences, recreational areas, and luxurious spas. Don't miss out on outdoor adventures, campus events, vibrant concerts, scenic photo tours, and lively cocktail parties. With its stunning scenery and energetic atmosphere, Durham promises an unforgettable vacation filled with excitement and relaxation.
Shopping
In the heart of Durham, discover unique gifts at the historic Durham Market Hall, where local artisans showcase their crafts. If you're up for a drive, visit the Dalton Park Outlet for great deals on fashion and home goods, just a short distance from the city.
Recreation
In Durham, the Spa at the Hilton Garden Inn offers rejuvenating treatments and a relaxing atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploration. For outdoor enthusiasts, the beautiful Wharton Park provides lush green spaces ideal for walking, jogging, or simply enjoying nature's tranquility.
Adventure
Explore the stunning landscapes of Durham Dales, where you can hike scenic trails, cycle along picturesque routes, and enjoy thrilling rock climbing adventures. Visit the exhilarating Beamish Wild for zip-lining and treetop adventures, offering a unique perspective of the beautiful North East countryside.
Nightlife
In Durham, the lively Scene Bar offers a vibrant atmosphere with great cocktails and music, while The Old Cinema Launderette combines a unique setting with craft beers and live performances. Don't miss the buzzing nightlife at The Boiler Room for an unforgettable club experience.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Durham
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Durham are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to July and September, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Durham is Thursday. The most expensive day to stay in Durham is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Durham hotel reservations with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in and around Durham
Durham is perfect for visitors seeking a mix of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences. With its stunning parks, historic castles, and charming villages, the area offers a variety of attractions for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Whether you're exploring the city's rich history or enjoying the beautiful scenery, Durham promises memorable experiences for every traveler.
- Durham Cathedral: This stunning Norman cathedral is a UNESCO World Heritage site, renowned for its remarkable Romanesque architecture and breathtaking stained glass windows. Visitors can explore its rich history and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
- Durham Castle: Overlooking the River Wear, this medieval castle, also a UNESCO site, offers a glimpse into the past with its grand architecture and fascinating history. The romantic setting and guided tours make it a must-see for history lovers.
- Beamish Open Air Museum: Located 8 miles from Durham, this immersive museum transports visitors back in time to the early 20th century. Experience life in a historic village with authentic buildings, vintage vehicles, and interactive exhibits.
Best time to go to Durham
The best time to visit Durham can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Durham falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Durham falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Durham
When planning your trip to Durham, England, you can fly into several nearby airports. Newcastle International Airport (NCL) is located 19 miles from Durham, with several hotel options such as the 4-star Sandman Signature Newcastle Hotel and the 4-star Copthorne Hotel, both around 6 miles from the airport. Teesside International Airport (MME) is also 19 miles away, offering accommodations like the 4.5-star Rockliffe Hall and the 4-star Old Mill Rooms, both about 5 miles from the airport. Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA), located 63 miles from Durham, has great hotel choices like the 5-star Timble Inn, situated 8 miles away.