Durham Holidays

Things to do in and around Durham

Durham offers a delightful mix of outdoor activities and scenic beauty, perfect for a memorable holiday. Visitors can enjoy day trips, weekend breaks, and cycling holidays, as well as relaxing riverside walks. The area also features educational attractions, recreational spaces, and spa facilities, ensuring a friendly atmosphere for all. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Durham has something to suit every traveller.

Shopping

Experience shopping in Durham at Newgate Shopping Centre, which offers a vibrant mix of city and family vibes just 14.5km away. If you're up for a drive, visit the Metrocentre, 20.9km away, boasting an array of entertainment and shopping options for all tastes.

Recreation

Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Gala Theatre Durham, where culture and entertainment intertwine. Enjoy a round of golf amidst scenic views at Brancepeth Castle Golf Club, perfect for sports enthusiasts. For relaxation, visit Spennymoor Leisure Centre, just a short drive away, offering wellness and rejuvenation opportunities.

Adventure

Diggerland in Durham offers a unique experience where you can operate real construction machinery, perfect for thrill-seekers. Massive Attack Paintball, located 12.9km from Durham, promises high-energy paintball battles amidst an exciting outdoor setting. Adventure Valley, also in Durham, combines fun activities for the entire family in a vibrant atmosphere.

Nightlife

Durham’s nightlife offers a mix of vibrant pubs and lively clubs. Enjoy a pint at the historic Dun Cow Inn, or dance the night away at The Lounge. For a more relaxed evening, try the charming Head of Steam, where local ales and live music create a warm atmosphere.

Find the best attractions in and around Durham

Durham offers a stunning blend of outdoor adventure and rich history, making it an ideal destination for tourists. Explore the picturesque Durham Dales, visit the historic colleges and universities, or admire the majestic castle. The city is perfect for families and culture enthusiasts alike, with plenty of attractions to enjoy. Don't miss the local holiday parks and other points of interest in County Durham for a memorable experience.

• Durham Cathedral: An iconic masterpiece of Norman architecture, Durham Cathedral boasts stunning Romanesque features and intricate stained glass. Its dramatic setting beside the River Wear offers breathtaking views, and the peaceful atmosphere invites contemplation. Be sure to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site's rich history and impressive cloisters.
• Beamish Open Air Museum: Located 12.9km from Durham, this living museum transports visitors back in time to the early 20th century. Experience life in a historic village with authentic shops, homes, and even a tramway. Engaging exhibits and costumed staff bring history to life, making it a fun and educational outing.
• Durham Indoor Market: Situated in the heart of Durham, this vibrant market features a mix of local produce, artisanal goods, and unique crafts. With a lively atmosphere and friendly vendors, it’s the perfect place to sample local delicacies and pick up souvenirs.

Best time to go to Durham

The best time to visit Durham is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, 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	Slightly Low
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	Average

Tips to save on your trip to Durham

• Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
• Consider traveling to Durham during the low season (January to March) for more affordable options.
• Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
• Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.