Virtual Tourist

Things to do in Durham

Not Just Any Hotel – Only the Best Things to do in Durham, Selected for You!

Sep 04, 2025 - Sep 05, 2025
2 adults, 1 room
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Durham Crown Court
10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Public Building
United Kingdom
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Durham Crown Court serves as a vital part of the justice system in the UK, handling serious criminal cases in a historical setting since its establishment.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free entry for the public to observe proceedings.

Good (16)

Bow Trust
10:00 AM–4:00 PM
Gallery
United Kingdom
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Bow Trust Museum in Durham features local history exhibits, including medieval city models and a Victorian prison cell. A converted church showcasing the rich past of the region.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Good (1982)

Tunstall Chapel
1:15 PM–4:15 PM
Museum
The Castle Palace Green
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Durham Castle, built in 1072, is a historic Norman fortress that now serves as University College, showcasing rich history and unique architecture.

Duration: Approximately 50 minutes for a guided tour.

Free entry to public tours, but advance bookings are recommended due to limited spots.

Good (8174)

Durham Cathedral
10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Monument
Palace Green
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Durham Cathedral, part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcases exquisite Romanesque architecture and the shrine of St. Cuthbert, attracting visitors for nearly 1,000 years.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Donations of £3 suggested; charges apply for guided tours and special exhibits.

Durham City Golf Club
7:00 AM–8:00 PM
Golf Course
Langley Moor (Littleburn Road)
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Durham City Golf Club offers an 18-hole course with scenic views, established in 1899, catering to both seasoned golfers and newcomers in Durham, UK.

Duration: Approximately 4 hours.

Green fees apply, generally ranging from £20-£40 per round depending on the season.

Good (548)

Oriental Museum
Tu-Fr 10:00-17:00, Sa-Su 12:00-17:00; Apr-Oct Th[1] 10:00-19:00; Apr-Oct Th[3] 10:00-19:00; Nov-Mar Th[1] 10:00-19:00 ; PH 12:00-17:00; Dec 25-26 off
Museum
Durham University Elvet Hill Durham University Elvet Hill
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The Oriental Museum in Durham, UK, is the only museum in Northern England dedicated to art and archaeology from Northern Africa and Asia, showcasing diverse cultures.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Good (543)

Durham University Botanic Garden
10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Park
Hollingside Lane South Road
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Durham University Botanic Garden spans 10 hectares of mature woodlands, featuring diverse plant collections, glasshouses, and outdoor art. Open to the public year-round.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Certain events and activities may incur additional charges.

Good (1345)

Crook Hall and Gardens
9:30 AM–5:00 PM
Garden
Frankland Lane Sidegate
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Crook Hall and Gardens, a medieval manor in Durham, combines historic architecture with expansive gardens. Enjoy afternoon tea and unique wedding venues.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Paid. Admission details can vary; refer to the official website for specifics.

Good (115)

Brancepeth Castle
10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Castle
5 miles South-west of Durham on the A690
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Brancepeth Castle, a Grade I listed building, is located in County Durham, England, 5 miles south-west of Durham city centre. Explore its rich history and architecture.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Paid entry for special events; general access is free.

Good (5)

Church of St Laurence
10:00 AM–4:00 PM
Church
1 Hallgarth
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Church of St Laurence in Pittington, County Durham, England, features distinctive architecture and holds historical significance dating back to its foundation.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free.

Good (107)

Durham Museum
10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Museum
St. Mary-Le-Bow North Bailey
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Durham Museum features local history exhibits from the medieval period to present, plus a sculpture garden, gift shop, and brass rubbing center.

Duration: Around 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may have a fee.

Good (52)

Durham University Museum of Archaeology
10:00 AM–5:50 PM
Museum
Palace Green Library
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Durham University Museum of Archaeology features collections from prehistoric to post-medieval times, with free entry at Palace Green Library in Durham, UK.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Good (11)

St Brandon's Church
10:00 AM–4:00 PM
Church
United Kingdom
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St Brandon's Church in Brancepeth, County Durham features medieval architecture and a rich history, making it a notable landmark for visitors and historians alike.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Some special events may incur a cost.

Good (451)

Wharton Park
8:00 AM–7:00 PM
Park
10 Princes' St
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Wharton Park in Durham, UK features play areas, a miniature-car track, a cafe, and scenic views, ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a paid ticket.

Good (1772)

Prince Bishops Shopping Centre
9:00 AM–8:00 PM
Mall
Durham City DH1 3UL
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Prince Bishops Shopping Centre in Durham features a diverse range of shops, dining options, and entertainment, conveniently located in the heart of the city.

Duration: Around 2-3 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a paid ticket.

Good (4)

Kingsgate Bridge
Open 24 hours
Bridge
Kingsgate Bridge
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Kingsgate Bridge is a footbridge located in Durham, UK, spanning the River Wear and connecting key parts of the city.

Duration: 30 minutes.

Free. No entry fee required.

Good (11)

Elvet Bridge
Accessible 24 hours
Bridge
Elvet Bridge
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Elvet Bridge is a Grade I listed medieval bridge in Durham, United Kingdom, known for its unique architecture and rich history.

Duration: 30 minutes.

Free. No entry fee required to walk across the bridge.

Christ Church Lumley
10:00 AM–4:00 PM
Church
United Kingdom
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Christ Church Lumley in Great Lumley, County Durham, is a historic church known for its striking architecture and community significance.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Donations welcome for church upkeep.

Hatfield College
10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Church
North Bailey
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Hatfield College is a constituent college of Durham University, established in 1846, known for its historic significance and eclectic architecture, situated near Durham Cathedral.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some events may charge a fee.

College of St Hild and St Bede
9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Church
St. Hilds Lane
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College of St Hild and St Bede, part of Durham University, accommodates 1,000+ students and combines historical significance with modern education on the banks of the River Wear.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some events may require a paid ticket.

St Charles R.C. Church
9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Church
Spennymoor
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St Charles R.C. Church in Durham, UK features stunning neo-Gothic architecture and rich liturgical traditions, serving the local community since 1860.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations appreciated for maintenance and community programs.

Chapel of St Mary the Less
10:00 AM–4:00 PM
Church
South Bailey
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Chapel of St Mary the Less is a historic church in Durham, England, notable for its medieval architecture and rich ecclesiastical history.

Duration: 30 minutes.

Free. Donations are welcomed for maintenance and preservation.

Carrville Methodist Church
10:00 AM–12:00 PM
Church
United Kingdom
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Carrville Methodist Church in Durham serves as a community hub offering services, events, and a historic venue with beautiful architecture and welcoming atmosphere.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated for community programs.

Belmont Parish Church
10:00 AM–2:00 PM
Church
United Kingdom
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Belmont Parish Church, located in Durham, UK, is a historical church with significant architectural features and a rich cultural heritage.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Donations are welcomed for maintenance and community activities.

Waddington Street United Reformed Church
10:00 AM–3:00 PM
Church
Waddington Street
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Waddington Street United Reformed Church in Durham, UK, features striking architecture and serves as a vibrant community hub with a rich history dating back to 1856.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free.

Cocken Wood Finchale Priory
Open All Day
Bridge
Framwellgate Moor
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Cocken Wood Finchale Priory in Durham features historic ruins dating back to the 12th century, set in a tranquil woodland environment near the River Wear.

Duration: 1–2 hours.

Free. Donations for site preservation are encouraged.

Diggerland Devon
10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Theme Park
Verbeer Manor (Cullompton)
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Diggerland Devon, located in Durham, UK, offers hands-on experiences driving actual construction machinery, ideal for all ages seeking fun and adventure.

Duration: Approximately 4 hours.

£24.95 for adults, £19.95 for children (under 90cm free). Discounts available for families and pre-booking.

Thrislington Nature Reserve
Open all day
Nature reserve
West Cornforth
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Thrislington Nature Reserve, situated in Durham, UK, is a rich habitat for diverse flora and fauna, offering a distinctive experience for nature enthusiasts and hikers.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Donations appreciated.

Coxhoe Church
10:00 AM–3:00 PM
Church
Durham
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Coxhoe Church, a historic Anglican parish church in Durham, features neo-Gothic architecture and a rich local heritage dating back to the early 19th century.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations are appreciated for maintenance.

Steven Scarr
12:00 PM–11:00 PM
Spa Center
Hairdressers
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Steven Scarr in Durham, UK, features a local craft brewery, a restaurant with local cuisine, and unique artworks. Ideal for foodies and craft beer lovers.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free entry. Dining and drinks purchased separately.

St Josephs Roman Catholic Church
9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Church
Broom Ln
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St Josephs Roman Catholic Church in Durham, UK, is notable for its impressive Gothic architecture and rich local heritage, welcoming visitors for worship and exploration.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free. Donations welcome for maintenance and community service.

st catherines church
10:00 AM–4:00 PM
Church
United Kingdom
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St Catherine's Church in Durham is a historic parish church, founded in the 19th century, featuring remarkable Gothic architecture and vibrant stained glass windows.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free. Donations are welcome.

Fulling Mill Archaeology Museum
10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Bridge
The Banks
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Fulling Mill Archaeology Museum in Durham showcases archaeological artifacts, emphasizing the region's rich history from prehistoric through medieval times.

Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours.

Free to enter, special events may require tickets.

Belmont Parish Hall
9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Event hall
United Kingdom
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Belmont Parish Hall in Durham, UK, is a historic community venue used for events and gatherings, reflecting the local culture and history since its establishment in 1923.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Donations are appreciated during events.