10+ Best Things to Do in Durham: Ultimate City Guide

Why should I go to Durham?

Durham is one of those cities that flies under the radar—but once you visit, you’ll wonder why everyone isn’t shouting about it. Compact, charming, and steeped in history, this cathedral city in the northeast of England is bursting with character.

With its medieval cobbled streets, riverside walks, world-famous cathedral, and lively atmosphere, Durham is a perfect getaway whether you're visiting for a weekend or staying longer. In this guide, we’ll show you the very best things to do in Durham, along with the top day trips you can take from the city.

What should I do in Durham?

Explore Durham Cathedral and Castle

It’s impossible to visit Durham and not be blown away by Durham Cathedral. Dating back to 1093, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the greatest examples of Norman architecture in Europe and remains an active place of worship to this day.

Step inside to admire the vaulted ceilings and intricate stonework, and if you're feeling energetic, climb the Cathedral Tower for panoramic views over the city and surrounding countryside. Fans of Harry Potter will also recognise the Cathedral cloisters as a filming location for Hogwarts.

Right next door to the Cathedral is Durham Castle, another UNESCO-listed gem with over 900 years of history. Originally built as a Norman fortress, the castle has seen its fair share of royal drama, political intrigue, and student antics—it now serves as part of Durham University, and is an active college lived in by many students.

The best way to explore these two amazing places is likely via a Durham Walking tour.

Stroll Along the River Wear

The River Wear loops gracefully around Durham’s historic centre, providing the perfect setting for a riverside walk. The most famous viewpoint is from Prebends Bridge, where the Cathedral and Castle rise majestically above the river—don’t forget your camera!

You can also hire a rowing boat or take a river cruise if you fancy seeing the city from the water. Either way, the riverbanks are one of the best spots to relax and soak up the city’s charm.

Discover the Oriental Museum

Tucked away from the city centre, the Oriental Museum is one of Durham’s hidden treasures. It’s the only museum in Northern England entirely devoted to the art and archaeology of Asia, Egypt, and the Middle East.

From ancient Egyptian mummies to Japanese ceramics and Chinese jade, this small but fascinating museum is well worth a visit, especially on a rainy day.

Visit Durham University Botanic Garden

If you’re craving a bit of greenery, head to the Durham University Botanic Garden. Spread across 25 acres, the garden is home to tropical glasshouses, colourful borders, sculpture trails, and peaceful woodland walks.

It’s a great place to unwind after exploring the city, and there’s a café on site for a well-earned tea and cake stop.

Browse Durham City Centre and Market Hall

For a local shopping experience, make your way to Durham Market Hall. This vibrant indoor market is home to over 50 independent traders selling everything from artisan food and local produce to crafts, gifts, and vintage finds. It’s the perfect place to pick up a souvenir, sample some local cheese, or simply soak up the lively atmosphere. The market is right in the city centre giving you plenty of opportunity to explore several cafes and pubs after your

Best Day Trips from Durham

One of Durham’s biggest perks is its location—perfect for exploring some of the best attractions in Northeast England. If you’re staying a little longer, here are some of the best day trips you can take from Durham. Don't forget to grab a rental car to make travelling to these day trips as easy as possible!

Visit Beamish Museum

Just a short drive from the city, Beamish, The Living Museum of the North is a must-see. This open-air museum brings history to life with recreated towns, villages, and countryside from the 1820s, 1900s, and 1940s.

Ride on a vintage tram, chat to costumed guides, and get a real taste of what life was like in North East England throughout the ages. Don’t miss the traditional fish and chips at the 1900s Pit Village—arguably one of the best in the country. This private tour of Beamish is a great experience.

Explore Newcastle Upon Tyne

Hop on a train and you’ll be in the buzzing city of Newcastle in just 15 minutes. Known for its iconic Tyne Bridge, lively Quayside, and famously friendly locals, Newcastle is a brilliant city to explore for the day.

You can browse independent shops, check out the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art, or enjoy a stroll along the river. If you stay into the evening, Newcastle’s nightlife is the stuff of legend.

Walk Along Hadrian’s Wall

If you’re a history enthusiast, a visit to Hadrian’s Wall is a must. Just an hour’s drive from Durham, this UNESCO World Heritage Site once marked the northern boundary of the Roman Empire.

You can explore well-preserved Roman forts like Housesteads and Chesters, walk stretches of the wall itself, and imagine what life was like for Roman soldiers on the wild northern frontier.

Spend the Day in York

Just over an hour by train, York is one of England’s most beautiful and historic cities. Wander down the medieval Shambles, walk along the ancient City Walls, and marvel at the magnificent York Minster.

If you’ve got a sweet tooth, try this chocolate bar workshop to learn about the city’s rich chocolate-making heritage—and pick up a few treats to take home.

High Force Waterfall

For fresh air and dramatic landscapes, escape to the Durham Dales and visit High Force Waterfall. Tucked away in the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, this impressive waterfall thunders 21 metres into the River Tees below.

There are also plenty of scenic walking trails in the area if you want to stretch your legs and explore more of the surrounding countryside.

Final Thoughts

Durham may be small, but it delivers big when it comes to history, charm, and things to do. Whether you’re wandering its medieval streets, admiring the views from Prebends Bridge, or heading out on a day trip, this little city has plenty to offer.

So pack your comfiest shoes (those cobbles can be unforgiving), bring an appetite for local food and fresh air, and get ready to fall for Durham’s understated magic.