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Top reasons to visit Durham

• Stunning Durham Cathedral: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this iconic cathedral showcases impressive Norman architecture.
• Historic Durham Castle: Explore this medieval fortress, steeped in history and offering breathtaking views of the city.
• Beautiful Durham Dales: Enjoy picturesque walks and outdoor adventures in the scenic countryside surrounding the city.
• Rich Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in the local heritage through museums, art galleries, and engaging events.
• Welcoming Accommodation: Choose from a variety of friendly hotels and guesthouses catering to all travellers.

Find great hotels near Durham

Experience a delightful stay in Durham, where a variety of accommodation options await you. From pet-friendly hotels to welcoming guesthouses, there’s something for every traveller, including those on business or seeking an LGBTQIA-friendly environment. Popular choices include the Travelodge and Hotel Indigo, ensuring you find the perfect base for your adventures in this charming city.

• Leonardo Hotel Newcastle: Situated 20.9km from Durham, the 4-star Leonardo Hotel Newcastle is ideal for adventurous spirits and business travellers seeking an eco-friendly stay. With a commendable guest rating of 8.2 out of 10, it offers a range of adventure sports and recreational activities nearby, including kayaking, sailing, mountain biking, windsurfing, and hiking. The hotel's eco-certification highlights its commitment to sustainability, making it a great choice for environmentally conscious visitors.
• Leonardo Hotel Newcastle Quayside: Also 20.9km from Durham, the 4-star Leonardo Hotel Newcastle Quayside is a family-friendly accommodation that shares the same guest rating of 8.2 out of 10. This eco-certified hotel ensures a sustainable stay while providing essential amenities for children, including complimentary cribs. The welcoming atmosphere and focus on family make it an appealing option for those travelling with young ones, while still being mindful of the environment.
• Copthorne Hotel Newcastle: The 4-star Copthorne Hotel Newcastle, boasting an impressive guest rating of 8.8 out of 10, is conveniently located 20.9km from Durham. This hotel caters to business travellers while also emphasizing eco-friendly practices. Its dedication to sustainability makes it a responsible choice for visitors who wish to combine work with a green conscience. The stylish accommodations and professional services ensure a comfortable stay for those on business or leisure.

Where to stay in and around Durham

Durham offers an enchanting blend of history, culture, and stunning outdoor scenery. Explore the charming Durham city, with its iconic cathedral and friendly atmosphere, or venture into the picturesque Durham countryside for relaxing walks and hidden gems. The nearby County Durham and its quaint villages provide a family-friendly vibe, perfect for all types of travellers. With its convenient location, Durham is an ideal base for discovering the rich heritage and natural beauty of this captivating region.

• Chester-le-Street: Situated a mere 8.0km from Durham, Chester-le-Street is a vibrant city that attracts visitors year-round, with peak seasons in June to July and September. Travellers flock here for a blend of cultural experiences and outdoor adventures. The city boasts a range of activities, from rejuvenating spa treatments to educational attractions. Notable landmarks include historic buildings and monuments that tell the story of the city’s rich heritage. Whether you're keen on exploring local history or enjoying the scenic surroundings, Chester-le-Street offers a delightful experience.
• Lanchester: Nestled within the beautiful Durham area, Lanchester is a charming village known for its scenic landscapes and outdoor adventures. Visitor numbers peak in April, July, and September, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing getaway. The village offers plenty of recreational activities, including playgrounds and adventure zones for families and thrill-seekers alike. Nearby attractions, such as the national park and history museum, provide insight into the area’s natural beauty and cultural significance. Lanchester is a perfect destination for those looking to immerse themselves in nature and history.
• Coxhoe: Located in the Durham area, Coxhoe is a quaint village that offers a unique mix of culture and outdoor experiences. With peak visitor numbers in February and August to September, Coxhoe attracts those interested in exploring its historic charm. The village features recreational areas and educational venues, making it suitable for all ages. Local attractions include a history museum and a historic village that showcase the area's heritage. With its scenic views and cultural offerings, Coxhoe is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

Things to do near Durham

Shopping

In Durham, explore the charming shops along Elvet Bridge, where you can find unique gifts and local crafts. If you're up for a drive, visit the Metrocentre in Gateshead, about 16.1km away, featuring a vast range of high-street stores and dining options.

Recreation

Experience relaxation at the Serenity Spa, where you can indulge in soothing treatments and unwind in a tranquil environment. For outdoor activities, the stunning Wharton Park offers beautiful gardens and walking trails, ideal for a leisurely stroll or a picnic amidst nature.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of motor racing at Croft Circuit, located 35.4km from Durham, where speed enthusiasts can enjoy adrenaline-pumping events. For a different adventure, head to Beamish Wild, 14.5km away, where you can navigate zip lines and rope courses amidst beautiful outdoor scenery.

Nightlife

Explore the vibrant nightlife at the Old Cinema Laundrette on North Road for unique cocktails in a quirky setting. For a relaxed vibe, visit the Dun Cow on Old Elvet, where you can enjoy local ales and mingle with friendly locals.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Durham

Durham provides numerous opportunities for budget-conscious travellers. Many attractions, such as Durham Cathedral and the Angel of the North, are free to visit. For transport, consider the bus or train, as they’re cost-effective options. To save on accommodation, plan your trip between December and February, when prices are lower, and aim for a Thursday stay. Utilise Expedia’s search tool to find the best deals, including eco-friendly hotels and package deals that combine flights and activities for extra savings. Look out for free cancellation options on select hotels as well.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Durham are December to February, 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: Expedia’s search tool lets you specify your budget, preferred location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your results to display prices from lowest to highest, making it easy to find the most affordable accommodation first. Additionally, you can refine your choices by hotel type—selecting the Eco-certified filter will show you sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save some money by combining your hotel booking in Durham with your flights and activities by choosing an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in and around Durham

Durham offers a fantastic blend of outdoor adventure and rich culture, making it an ideal destination for Kiwi tourists. You can explore the stunning Durham Cathedral, the historic charm of the city, and the scenic beauty of the Durham Dales. Don't miss the impressive Durham Castle and the Old Shire Hall. With parks and leisure centres nearby, there’s something for everyone in this picturesque English city.

• Durham Castle: Explore the historic Durham Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning architecture and rich cultural history. Its romantic ambience and captivating stories make it an ideal spot for those interested in heritage and architecture.
• Palace Green: Enjoy the tranquillity of Palace Green, an urban park that offers a delightful escape in the heart of the city. It’s perfect for family picnics, leisurely walks, or simply soaking up the outdoor atmosphere while surrounded by beautiful historic buildings.
• Auckland Castle: Visit Auckland Castle, located 12.9km from Durham, to admire its impressive grounds and deep-rooted history. With its romantic vibe and cultural significance, it’s a fascinating destination for those keen on exploring English heritage.

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.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	38.8°F (3.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
February	39.9°F (4.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
March	42.3°F (5.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	45.7°F (7.6°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	50.7°F (10.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
June	56.3°F (13.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	59.7°F (15.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	59.4°F (15.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
September	55.9°F (13.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
October	50.7°F (10.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	44.6°F (7.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
December	40.5°F (4.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Durham

Flying into Durham, England, is convenient with its nearest major airport, Newcastle International Airport (NCL), located 30.6km away. There are several excellent hotels nearby, including the 4-star Delta Hotels by Marriott Newcastle Gateshead, Copthorne Hotel Newcastle, and Maldron Hotel Newcastle, all situated about 9.7km from the airport. Alternatively, Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA) is 101.4km from Durham, with luxurious options like the 5-star Grafton Guesthouse and Timble Inn. Carlisle Airport (CAX) is also a viable choice, located 80.5km away, with quality accommodation such as the Carlisle Station Hotel and Crown Hotel, both within a short distance of the airport.