Things to do in Durham

Activities, attractions and tours

Visit Durham

Types of activities

Where to stay

Durham travel guide

Wicker woman leading to the river lovely place to explore

Over the river looking at the boat house and cathedral

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What to do in Durham

Popular places to visit

A little known gem within Durham. A lovely walk through the gardens to the Greenhouses

Durham University

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 Cathedral

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 stunning cathedral in this culturally rich area.

Durham Castle

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 spas and stunning cathedral in this culturally rich area.

Durham Lumiere is a fantastic event that takes place every two years. This is a light installation of coloured umbrellas at the Gala Theatre. Free entry to Lumiere after 7:30!

Gala Theatre Durham

Enjoy a performance at Gala Theatre Durham, a popular theatre in Durham. Stroll along the riverfront or visit the stunning cathedral in this culturally rich area.

Diggerland

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

Crook Hall and Gardens

Explore the great outdoors at Crook Hall and Gardens, a lovely green space in Durham. Visit the spas and top-notch restaurants in this culturally rich area.

Durham Botanic Garden

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

Palace Green

Explore the great outdoors at Palace Green, a lovely green space in Durham. Stroll along the riverfront or visit the stunning cathedral in this culturally rich area.

Hall Hill Farm

Visit the native and exotic animals who live at Hall Hill Farm during your travels in Satley.

Areas of Durham

Panorama of Durham Framwellgate Bridge, Castle and Cathedral, England, UK

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 Crook Hall and Gardens and Gala Theatre Durham.

Brasside

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

Seaham

View of farmland to the side of Harehill Plantation

Haswell Plough

Newcastle-upon-Tyne

Lanchester

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.