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Top reasons to visit Durham

• Historic Durham Castle: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this iconic castle offers a glimpse into the city's rich history and architecture.
• Scenic River Wear Cruises: Enjoy a relaxing cruise on the River Wear, taking in the stunning landscapes and charming riverside views.
• Durham Book Festival: Experience vibrant literary events, showcasing local and international authors in a lively atmosphere.
• Enchanting Durham Dales: Explore the picturesque countryside, perfect for outdoor adventures and breathtaking scenery.
• Unique Accommodation Options: Find a range of welcoming hotels and guesthouses that cater to various needs, ensuring a comfortable stay.

Find great hotels near Durham

Discover a range of excellent accommodation options in Durham, England, whether you're seeking a comfortable hotel or a welcoming guesthouse. Ideal for pet owners, business travellers, and those looking for an LGBTQIA-friendly environment, Durham's hotels offer a variety of services and facilities to ensure a pleasant stay. Explore the unique charm of this historic city while enjoying a perfect blend of modern amenities and traditional hospitality.

• Leonardo Hotel Newcastle: With a guest rating of 8.2, Leonardo Hotel Newcastle is an ideal choice for adventurous travellers seeking an eco-friendly experience. Located 21km from Durham, this hotel offers a variety of adventure sports and recreation options nearby, including hiking, biking, windsurfing, sailing, mountain biking, and kayaking. The establishment is eco-certified, ensuring a commitment to sustainability while providing a range of amenities for business travellers.
• Leonardo Hotel Newcastle Quayside: Also rated at 8.2, Leonardo Hotel Newcastle Quayside is perfect for families and eco-conscious guests. Situated 21km from Durham, this property boasts child-friendly amenities, including free cribs, making it a convenient option for those travelling with young ones. The hotel's eco-certification reflects its dedication to sustainability, ensuring families can enjoy a comfortable stay while being mindful of their environmental impact.
• Copthorne Hotel Newcastle: With a commendable guest rating of 8.8, Copthorne Hotel Newcastle is another excellent option, particularly for business travellers. Located 21km from Durham, this eco-certified hotel combines comfort and professionalism, catering to those on work trips without compromising on sustainability. Guests have noted the attentive service and well-appointed facilities, making it a reliable choice for a productive stay.

Where to stay in and around Durham

Durham offers a delightful blend of historical charm and scenic beauty, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and culture seekers alike. Wander through the enchanting streets of Durham City, explore the picturesque Durham Dales, and immerse yourself in the warm, friendly atmosphere. Whether you're seeking a relaxing family getaway or a secluded retreat, the surrounding regions provide a perfect backdrop for your adventures in this captivating part of the United Kingdom.

• Chester-le-Street: Located a mere 8km from Durham, Chester-le-Street is a vibrant city that offers a blend of culture, adventure, and outdoor experiences. The city sees a moderate influx of tourists, particularly from June to July and in September. Visitors flock here for its historic sites, including notable monuments and buildings that reflect the area's rich heritage. With a variety of activities like spa treatments and educational venues, Chester-le-Street is perfect for those looking to unwind or learn something new while enjoying the scenic surroundings.
• Lanchester: Nestled within the picturesque landscape of Durham, Lanchester is a charming village that welcomes visitors year-round, with peak seasons in April, July, and September. Known for its stunning scenery and outdoor adventures, Lanchester offers recreational areas and playgrounds that are perfect for families. The village is home to a history museum and is close to a national park, making it an ideal spot for those who appreciate nature and history. Lanchester's quaint atmosphere provides a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.
• Coxhoe: This delightful village is situated in the heart of Durham and offers a welcoming retreat for visitors, with peak travel times in February and August to September. Coxhoe is celebrated for its cultural experiences and beautiful outdoor spaces, including recreational areas that invite exploration and relaxation. The village is close to a history museum and a national state park, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in local history and nature. Coxhoe's charming environment makes it an excellent destination for those seeking tranquillity and scenic beauty.

Things to do near Durham

Durham offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and scenic beauty, making it perfect for a memorable holiday. Key activities include a relaxing cruise along the River Wear with the Durham Prince Bishop River Cruiser, attending the vibrant Durham Book Festival, and indulging in a rejuvenating stay at a treehouse spa break. Whether you seek education, recreation, or relaxation, Durham has something for everyone.

Shopping

In the heart of Durham, explore the charming shops of the historic market, where you can find unique local crafts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, the nearby Prince Bishops Shopping Centre in Darlington offers a wider selection of high street brands and eateries.

Recreation

Experience tranquillity at the Serenity Spa, where you can indulge in rejuvenating treatments and relax in the sauna. For outdoor enthusiasts, a stroll along the River Wear offers a peaceful setting to connect with nature and enjoy the scenic surroundings.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of motor racing at Croft Circuit, located 35km from Durham, where adrenaline meets speed on a professional track. For a different adventure, visit Beamish Wild, just 14km away, and navigate exhilarating zip lines and rope courses amidst beautiful outdoor scenery.

Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife in Durham by visiting the Curious Tavern on North Road for craft cocktails and a lively atmosphere. For a more laid-back vibe, check out The Head of Steam on North Road, where you can enjoy a wide selection of ales and live music from local bands.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Durham

• 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: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save on costs by combining your hotel booking in Durham with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in and around Durham

Durham is perfect for those seeking outdoor adventures and stunning scenery. Key attractions include the historic Durham Castle, alongside leisure centres and urban parks, making it ideal for cultural experiences and family outings. Explore the rich heritage and natural beauty that this charming city has to offer, ensuring a memorable visit for all.

• Durham Cathedral: This stunning Norman cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, boasts remarkable Romanesque architecture and intricate medieval craftsmanship. Visitors can admire the breathtaking vaulted ceilings and explore the tranquil cloisters, which offer a glimpse into the spiritual heart of Durham.
• Durham Castle: Overlooking the River Wear, this historic castle offers a blend of culture and romance. Originally built in the 11th century, it now houses a university college and provides guided tours showcasing its rich history, magnificent architecture, and stunning views of the city.
• Beamish Open Air Museum: Located 13km from Durham, this immersive museum recreates life in the 1820s, 1900s, and 1940s. Wander through the authentic streets, interact with costumed characters, and enjoy traditional crafts and activities, all set in a picturesque, open-air environment.

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 via several major airports. Newcastle International Airport (NCL) is situated 31km from Durham, with nearby hotels such as Delta Hotels by Marriott Newcastle Gateshead, Copthorne Hotel Newcastle, and Maldron Hotel Newcastle, all approximately 10km from the airport. Teesside International Airport (MME) is also 31km away, offering options like Rockliffe Hall and Hotel Bannatyne Darlington, which are both 8km from the airport. Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA) is located 101km from Durham, with notable hotels like Hollins Hall Hotel, Spa & Golf, just 5km away, making it accessible for travelers seeking accommodation.