Whether you’re on a weekend away with the family or out with friends for some celebrating, Durham is one of England’s most visited cities.
I’m going to break down exactly why that is and show you why this needs to be your next getaway…
Let’s start with the family day out – you can consider this you’re itinerary.
Durham – A Place To Enjoy Your Lovely Day.
The obvious place we have to start is, of course, Durham Cathedral and Castle. Located at the highest point of the city and dominating the city skyline, Durham Cathedral is something you have to see, the beauty is unbelievable. Entry to the cathedral is free, but a one-hour Cathedral tour is available daily and on Fridays and Saturdays you can climb 137 steps up to the top of the North West Tower for a birds-eye view of the city! Families can also use ‘free to borrow’ backpacks with trails around the cathedral for children to follow.
Next up we have the River Walk. You can get away from the busy city centre and instead head down to the River Wear and join the footpaths that run along either side of the river under impressive stone arched bridges.
And of course, we have Durham City Centre, filled with shops and restaurants for all the family to enjoy! Wander down pretty, cobbled shopping streets to the central Market Place and be sure to check out the indoor Victorian Durham Market with over 50 independent market stalls.
Finally, there is a lot to do in the surrounding area.
Durham Gardens
Visit the Botanical Gardens on the edge of the city, explore the house and gardens at Crook Hall or go underground to explore the history of lead mining at Killhope.
Also, you need to head to the nearby Beamish Museum which is unmissable. The outstanding open-air museum spans a huge site and is described as a ‘living history museum!
Now on the other hand, if you’re looking for the perfect place for a bit of day drinking and celebrating then look no further – Durham is the place to be!
Durham Nightlife
With a city centre filled with bars, restaurants and pubs, Durham is always a lively place to be to get your party on.
Slug and Lettuce, Revolution, Old Toms Gin Bar, Wiff Waff, CoHo and Whiskey River to just name a few are some bars you definitely have to visit for the best drinks, cocktails and views on Durham.
So when you’re looking for you’re next weekend away, whether that’s with the family or friends, then make sure you check out our Durham apartments and townhouses!