The Best Things To See And Do In Durham England

When visiting a new city, sometimes the rigid tour guides just don’t cut it. Why not take the city of Durham into your own hands and explore its nature, history and culture? Read on to discover some of the top attractions in this north-eastern city.

The River Wear

Stretching 96km, the River Wear rises through the Pennines and flows through County Durham, looping through the city, lacing it with natural beauty. Thanks to community support and river conservationists, the River Wear is thriving, allowing this stretch of water to sustain wildlife and support the community. Why not follow the River Wear through Durham City Centre, and see where it takes you?

The Assembly Rooms Theatre

Theater

In the heart of the city, plush, velvet-draped The Assembly Rooms Theatre seats 220 people. It is the port of call for touring acts and the home of Durham Student Theatre. This beautiful spot holds its own against any theatre and is a hub of creativity in Durham.

Wharton Park

Park

A great day out for the whole family, Wharton Park has more than 4.3 hectares of lush greens, exciting play areas, community gardens and so much more. Just north of the city centre, this park is a breath of fresh air form the hustle and bustle of the city. Having recently undergone a £3 million renovation, there’s no better time to visit!

Durham Castle

University

In 1072, under the instruction of William the Conqueror, Durham Castle was constructed after the Norman Conquest of England, and it still stands today. It is now the home of University College, but visitors can also take tours. Durham Castle is the centre point of the county’s history, making this World Heritage site a must see.

Empty Shop

Bridge, Shop

This space is for those who love the charm of independent venues and who enjoy supporting local art and music. Empty Shop has seen 130,000 visitors, 2,500 artists and 750 events since opening in 2008. The organisation provides a platform for local artists to exhibit and produce works whilst encouraging visitors to also engage with art. Be sure to check their website for upcoming events.

Old Cinema Launderette

Cinema

One of the very few places where you can wash your clothes, grab a drink and watch a musician perform! The Old Cinema Launderette keeps in line with the trendy 50s theme, a living tribute to its former function as a cinema during 1928-1958. For upcoming gigs, be sure to check their website.

Beamish Museum

Museum, Shop

Step back in time at this highly interactive and immersive museum that gives visitors insight into north-east England in the early 19th and 20th centuries, with a featured exhibit on life in the 1950s. Beamish Museum has preserved the revolution of industry throughout this time, allowing visitors to explore a whole village, colliery, a farm and train station with insightful talks with townsfolk along the way.

Sedgefield Racecourse

Known for its warm and relaxed atmosphere and stellar facilities, Sedgefield Racecourse is the place to become immersed in horse racing. Racing has taken place at Sedgefield since 1732 and has been through many transformations since then. However, the ethos of celebrating the sport has remained the same, and many flock here to place their bets on their favourite horse.

Museum of Archaeology

Library, Museum, University

Ranging from the prehistoric to the post-medieval, the Museum of Archaeology focuses on items from north-east England, excavated by Durham University’s Department of Archaeology. Since moving to the Palace Green Library from Durham University in 2014, the collection has grown and is better preserved—even more reason to uncover some of Durham’s history.

Durham Cathedral

Cathedral

A focal point of Durham, the cathedral played an important part in its history. Durham Cathedral was the final resting place of St Cuthbert, who died in 687 AD, making it grounds for religious pilgrimage in medieval England. Guests can now discover the treasures of St Cuthbert, explore its breath-taking architecture and take part in seasonal events.

About the author

Richard Franks

Freelance Travel and Music Writer

Proudly born and bred in Birmingham, UK, Richard is passionate about all things travel and music. Having founded the regional online music magazine Counteract in early 2010, Richard has enjoyed a versatile writing career and writes for a number of publications, including The Telegraph, The Guardian, The Independent, Metro and others. If he's not travelling around Europe, you'll often find him supporting his football team, Aston Villa.