Durham Travel Guide
Facts and practical information
Nestled in the picturesque northeast region of England, the city of Durham is a captivating destination that seamlessly blends history, culture, and natural beauty. With its stunning medieval architecture, charming cobbled streets, and iconic landmarks, Durham offers a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors.
At the heart of the city lies Durham Cathedral, a magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates back to the 11th century. Its soaring towers and intricate stone carvings make it one of the finest examples of Norman architecture in the world. Inside, visitors can marvel at the awe-inspiring stained glass windows and explore the peaceful cloisters, where scenes from the Harry Potter movies were filmed.
Just a stone's throw away from the cathedral is Durham Castle, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. This imposing fortress-turned-university college offers guided tours, allowing visitors to step back in time and discover its rich history. From the medieval Great Hall to the stunning Norman Chapel, every corner of Durham Castle tells a story.
For those seeking a taste of local life, a visit to the vibrant Durham Market Place is a must. This bustling square is home to a variety of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants, offering a delightful mix of traditional and contemporary fare. Sample delicious regional specialties such as Durham potted crab or indulge in a classic afternoon tea while soaking up the lively atmosphere.
Nature enthusiasts will find solace in the breathtaking Durham Dales, a picturesque countryside characterized by rolling hills, dramatic valleys, and charming villages. Explore the magnificent High Force waterfall, one of England's most spectacular natural wonders, or embark on a scenic hike along the famous Pennine Way.
Durham is also renowned for its annual events and festivals, which bring the city to life with music, art, and culture. From the Durham Book Festival, attracting world-class authors and literary enthusiasts, to the vibrant Durham Miners' Gala, celebrating the city's mining heritage, there is always something exciting happening in Durham.
Durham Attractions - What to See and Explore
Durham offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Durham Cathedral, Durham Castle, Oriental Museum, Prebends Bridge. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.
Things to See and Do in Durham by Category
Sights, interesting and unusual places and attractions valued by most tourists. See the list of places to visit in Durham.
Active
Mount Oswald
DurhamGolf 
Kepier Haughs
DurhamSport Sport venue 
The Racecourse
DurhamSport Sport venue
Church
Durham Cathedral
DurhamIconic, vaulted Romanesque building
Church Romanesque architecture 
St Cuthbert's Church
DurhamChurch Gothic Revival architecture 
St Giles Church
DurhamChurch Romanesque architecture 
St Margaret's Church
DurhamChurch 
St Nicholas Church
DurhamChurch Gothic Revival architecture
Bridge
Prebends Bridge
DurhamBridge 
Elvet Bridge
DurhamBridge 
Framwellgate Bridge
DurhamBridge 
Kingsgate Bridge
DurhamBridge
Historical place
Durham Castle
DurhamHistorical place Architecture Forts and castles 
Finchale Priory
DurhamMonastery Historical place Gothic architecture 
Crook Hall
DurhamHistorical place Garden Park 
Ushaw College
DurhamHistorical place Universities and schools Architecture
Library
Cosin's Library
DurhamLibrary 
Palace Green Library
DurhamRomanesque architecture Park Library 
Durham University Library
DurhamLibrary 
Durham Dean and Chapter Library
DurhamLibrary
Other categories
Universities and schoolsDurham – popular in the area (distance from the center)
In the vicinity of Durham, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Northumberland Street (Newcastle upon Tyne), Great North Museum: Hancock (Newcastle upon Tyne), Centre for Life (Newcastle upon Tyne).
Best Time To Visit Durham
Learn when is the best time to travel to Durham weather-wise and what to expect in each season.
Best Ways to Experience the City
Food & drink
CuisineA guide to some of the best local dishes and drinks that you will meet in the region.
Ale
Ale is a type of beer distinguished by its sweet, full-bodied, and fruity flavor, resulting from a warm fermentation process. Originally, ale was brewed without hops, using a blend of herbs or spices known as gruit for bitterness.
Type of beer
Stew
A stew is a robust dish crafted by simmering solid food ingredients in a liquid to create a rich, flavorful gravy. These ingredients often include a diverse array of vegetables and proteins such as beef, poultry, sausages, and even seafood.
Fishcake
Fishcakes are a delectable dish crafted from minced or ground fish or seafood, combined with a starchy ingredient, and then fried to perfection. The ingredients and preparation methods can vary widely depending on the region.
Food
Parkin
Parkin is a classic gingerbread cake originating from northern England, particularly cherished in Yorkshire and Lancashire. This delightful treat is made with oatmeal and black treacle, which impart a distinctive flavor and texture.
Sticky toffee pudding
Sticky toffee pudding is a cherished English dessert celebrated for its moist sponge cake enveloped in a rich toffee sauce, typically accompanied by vanilla custard or ice cream. In Australia and New Zealand, a similar delicacy known as sticky date pudding enjoys...
England