Durham - Discovering United Kingdom

Travelling to Durham

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Durham, a pretty good destination in United Kingdom (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Durham and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Durham, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through United Kingdom, here's everything to know about Durham for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Durham

Durham is a city located in the northeast of England, United Kingdom. The city is known for its rich history and architecture, particularly for its iconic Durham Cathedral, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The University of Durham, one of the oldest universities in England, is also located in the city. Durham is surrounded by beautiful countryside, including the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The city has a population of approximately 48,000 people and is easily accessible by train or road from other major cities in the UK.

What to visit in Durham

Sure, here are some popular tourist attractions in Durham, UK along with some information: 1. Durham Cathedral - It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most famous landmarks of Durham. This cathedral is known for its Norman architecture and stunning stained glass windows. Visitors can explore the cathedral's interior, climb the tower for a view of the city, and attend a service or choir performance.
2. Durham Castle - Another UNESCO World Heritage Site, Durham Castle was built in the 11th century to protect the city from invasion. Today, the castle is part of Durham University and houses students during the academic year. Visitors can take a guided tour of the castle to learn about its history and architecture.
3. Durham University Botanic Garden - This beautiful garden has a diverse collection of plants from around the world, organized into a variety of themed sections. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the peaceful gardens and enjoy the exhibits and features along the way.
4. Palace Green Library - This library is located in the heart of Durham and holds an incredible collection of rare books, manuscripts, and archives. Visitors can browse the collections or attend one of the many events or exhibitions held throughout the year.
5. Durham Heritage Centre and Museum - This museum is located in a former medieval church and tells the story of Durham's history through a variety of exhibits and displays. Visitors can learn about the city's role in the development of Christianity, its involvement in the Industrial Revolution, and much more.
6. Durham Markets - Tourists can visit the Durham Markets for local produce, cute trinkets, flowers, arts and crafts, and fresh seafood. These are just a few of the many tourist attractions that Durham has to offer.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in United Kingdom, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Durham.

When to go on holiday to Durham

The best time to visit Durham is during the summer months from June to August when the weather is warmest and the days are longer. However, keep in mind that this is also peak tourist season, so be prepared for larger crowds and higher prices. If you prefer to avoid the crowds, you could consider visiting Durham during the shoulder season, which runs from April to May and September to October. During this time, you can still enjoy mild weather, fewer crowds, and more affordable prices. The winter months from November to March are generally colder and wetter, but if you don't mind the cold, you may find cheaper prices and fewer crowds.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Durham

There are several ways to get to Durham, United Kingdom: 1. By air: The nearest airports to Durham are Newcastle International Airport and Durham Tees Valley Airport. From there, you can take a taxi, bus, or train to Durham.
2. By train: Durham is well-connected to other major cities in the UK via train. You can take a direct train from London, Edinburgh, Manchester, and other major cities to Durham. Durham train station is located in the city centre, making it easy to access the main attractions.
3. By car: Durham is easily accessible via the A1(M) motorway. The city is well-connected to other major cities in the UK, including London, Edinburgh, Manchester, and Liverpool.
4. By bus: There are several bus services that connect Durham to other major cities in the UK, such as London, Leeds, and Glasgow.
No matter what transportation mode you choose, Durham is easy to get to and well worth the visit.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Durham, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Durham

Durham, United Kingdom is known for its traditional British cuisine with a modern twist. Here are some typical foods of Durham: 1. Durham lamb shank - A slow-cooked lamb shank served with roasted potatoes, red wine gravy, and seasonal vegetables.
2. Stottie Cake - A large, round bread roll that is fluffy and slightly chewy. It is often used for sandwiches or filled with ham and pease pudding.
3. Pan Haggerty - A traditional Northumberland and Durham mining dish made with sliced potatoes, onions, and cheese.
4. Singin' Hinnies - a traditional Geordie (Newcastle/Tyneside) griddle scone, often served with fruit preserves and butter.
5. Pease Pudding - A savory, mushy pea-based spread often served as a side dish. 6. Durham Sausage - A delicious pork sausage seasoned with herbs like black pepper, sage, and nutmeg. 7. Craster Kippers - Smoked herring caught locally to Northumberland and consumed as a breakfast dish.
8. Panackelty - A slow-cooked stew of beef or lamb, potatoes, onions, and carrots served with crusty bread.
9. Cuddy's Cave Cheese - A distinct regional cheese made in Crook in County Durham. It is a crumbly, tangy white cheese.
10. Local Ales - Durham is known for its excellent breweries, and visitors can enjoy the local ale at various pubs and eateries.
You can find general info about typical foods in United Kingdom here.

Is Durham an expensive destination for tourists?

Durham, United Kingdom, can be a bit expensive for tourists, especially if you are staying in the city center. However, there are options to make your trip more budget-friendly such as looking for accommodation outside the city center, staying in a hostel or bed and breakfast, and exploring the area by foot or using public transportation. Additionally, there are free or low-cost activities to do in Durham such as visiting the Durham Cathedral, walking along the River Wear, and exploring the city's parks and gardens. Overall, with some planning and budgeting, Durham can be a great destination for travelers on a budget.

Where to find accomodation in Durham

There are several areas in Durham where you can find accommodation to visit. Some popular areas for tourists are the city center, Durham University campus, and the riverside area. The city center is ideal for those who want to stay close to the city's main attractions, such as Durham Castle and Durham Cathedral. The Durham University campus is a great option for budget-conscious travelers, as it offers affordable accommodations close to the city center. The riverside area is perfect for those who enjoy scenic walks and outdoor activities, as it provides easy access to the River Wear and its many walking trails.
You can check hotel prices at Durham here:
Booking.com

Is Durham a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Durham is generally considered a safe place for tourists. The city has a low crime rate and the local authorities are proactive in ensuring the safety and well-being of visitors. However, like any other city, it's always a good idea to exercise caution and follow basic safety practices such as not leaving valuables unattended and being aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Overall, Durham is a friendly and welcoming destination for tourists.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in United Kingdom here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Durham.

What type of travelers will enjoy Durham the most?

Durham is a great place for all types of travelers. Here are some reasons why: 1. Couples: Durham has a romantic and charming atmosphere, making it a great destination for couples. Explore its cobbled streets, take a stroll along the riverbanks, and enjoy a picnic in one of the many beautiful parks.
2. Young people: Durham has a vibrant nightlife and a great social scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and live music venues. Its student population means that there is always something going on in the evenings.
3. Families: With its captivating history and scenic surroundings, Durham is a great destination for families. The city has plenty of kid-friendly attractions, such as the Durham Cathedral and Castle, the Oriental Museum and the Adventure Valley.
In conclusion, Durham offers different options that cater to all tastes and ages. Couples, young people looking for fun, and families can all enjoy the city's beauty and charm.

How to get around Durham

There are several options for transportation to move around Durham including buses, taxi services, cycling, or walking. The public transportation system in Durham is well-developed, and you can easily access several bus routes to reach your desired destination. Taxis are also widely available in the city and can be hailed or booked in advance. Additionally, Durham is a very pedestrian and cycling friendly city, and many areas are easily accessible by foot or bike.

What to see around Durham

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Durham: 1. Newcastle Upon Tyne - a bustling city with a rich history, great shopping, and lively nightlife 2. Beamish Open Air Museum - an award-winning living history museum that showcases life in the North East of England in the 1800s and early 1900s 3. Hadrian's Wall - a historic Roman wall built in AD 122, stretching across the north of England 4. Durham Dales - a beautiful and peaceful area with rolling hills and historic market towns 5. Lindisfarne - a tidal island famous for its historic abbey and picturesque scenery 6. Whitby - a charming seaside town known for its picturesque harbor and connection to Bram Stoker's Dracula 7. Alnwick Castle - a medieval castle that has been used as a filming location for movies and TV shows such as Harry Potter and Downton Abbey 8. Seaham - a small town on the coast known for its beautiful beach and fascinating history as a center of glassmaking in the 19th century.
For every travel information about United Kingdom you can click here.

Wild Trips is the Wikipedia of travel and this page was partly created with the help of AI: in the unfortunate case you find an error, please write to us to correct it... Thank you!
Follow us on Facebook if you like wild trips around the world and beautiful itineraries in Italy: https://www.facebook.com/wildtrips.