What to do in Durham

Activities, attractions and tours

Durham
Durham
Photo by Brian Thompson
Photo by Brian Thompson
Photo by Ian Hall
Photo by Ian Hall
Photo by Ian Hall
Photo by Ian Hall
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What to do in Durham

Popular places to visit

Durham Cathedral

Durham Cathedral

4.5/5(259 reviews)

Durham Cathedral is just one of the places to see in Durham, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Stroll along the riverfront or visit the spas in this culturally rich area.

Durham Cathedral
Durham Castle

Durham Castle

4.5/5(142 reviews)

Durham Castle is just one of the places to see in Durham, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Visit the stunning cathedral and spas in this culturally rich area.

Durham Castle
Gala Theatre Durham

Gala Theatre Durham

Enjoy a performance at Gala Theatre Durham, a popular theatre in Durham. Stroll along the riverfront or visit the spas in this family-friendly area.

Gala Theatre Durham
Durham Botanic Garden

Durham Botanic Garden

Explore the great outdoors at Durham Botanic Garden, a lovely green space in Durham. Add the area's stunning cathedral or spas to your travel plans.

Durham Botanic Garden

Durham University

4.5/5(143 reviews)

Explore the campus of Durham University during your trip to Durham. Wander the area's riverfront or simply enjoy one of its lively bars.

Durham University

Diggerland

Enjoy an outing to Diggerland during your stay in Langley Park. Discover the lively bars and acclaimed theatre scene in this relaxing area.

Diggerland

Adventure Valley

Bring the children to Adventure Valley and enjoy the excitement of this theme park in Durham. Visit the spas and top-notch restaurants in this family-friendly area.

Adventure Valley

Crook Hall and Gardens

Explore the great outdoors at Crook Hall and Gardens, a lovely green space in Durham. Visit the stunning cathedral and lively bars in this culturally rich area.

Crook Hall and Gardens

Brancepeth Castle Golf Club

Enjoy a round of golf in Brancepeth at Brancepeth Castle Golf Club. Visit the spas and top-notch restaurants in this relaxing area.

Brancepeth Castle Golf Club

Explore areas of Durham

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Photo by Eric Haswell (CC BY-SA)

Framwellgate Moor

Framwellgate Moor might not have many top sights, but Gala Theatre Durham and Crook Hall and Gardens are two attractions nearby that you can check out.

Framwellgate Moor
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Brasside

While Brasside isn't home to many top sights, Adventure Valley and Crook Hall and Gardens are some notable places to visit nearby.

Brasside
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Photo by Roger Smith (CC BY-SA)

Pity Me

While Pity Me may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Gala Theatre Durham and Adventure Valley.

Pity Me

Day trip destinations from Durham

Photo "Bowburn" by Oliver Dixon (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original
Photo by Oliver Dixon (CC BY-SA)

Bowburn

Newcastle-upon-Tyne which includes a city, a river or creek and a bridge

Newcastle-upon-Tyne

Photo by Ian Hall

Croxdale

Photo by kelpies travel

Crook

Photo by Ian Hall

Coxhoe

Photo "Langley Park" by Oliver Dixon (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original
Photo by Oliver Dixon (CC BY-SA)

Langley Park

Photo "Murton" by Roger Smith (CC BY-SA) / Cropped from original
Photo by Roger Smith (CC BY-SA)

Murton

Frequently asked questions

Is Durham worth visiting?
Renowned for its walking trails and nature, discovering fun things to do in Durham is simple. Make sure to add Beamish Open Air Museum to your itinerary when here.
How do I spend a day in Durham?
Once you've visited major attractions like Beamish Open Air Museum and Durham Castle, spend the rest of your day experiencing Durham's retail and food scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Durham?
Don't leave without checking out Beamish Open Air Museum, ranked the top tourist attraction in Durham.
Is three days enough to stay in Durham?
You can easily enjoy leading attractions like Durham Cathedral, Durham Castle and Diggerland with a three-day stay in Durham. On average, most travellers book two days here. There's plenty to experience nearby too, so stick around longer and venture to Newcastle-upon-Tyne.
Is Durham a walkable city?
It depends on what you plan to see and do in Durham. Several top attractions, such as Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a wander around some of Durham's neighbourhoods, Carrville is 3 kilometres away from downtown, while Broompark is 3 kilometres away from the centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in Durham with kids?
Whether you're travelling with hard-to-please teens or tiny adventurers, a schedule filled with fun activities makes all the difference. Check out our ideas for what to do in Durham with kids.

What to do in Durham for adults?
Adults of all ages will find lots of things to do in Durham. Whether you're into art, history, outdoor adventures or just love discovering new destinations, there's something here for everyone.
Are there free things to do in Durham?
In Durham, Durham Cathedral is a top spot for anyone planning to experience the city without opening their wallet. Also, stroll around the local neighbourhoods and parks, and ask for tips from a local tour guide. It's a great way to find out about the best free things to do in Durham.