Durham Holidays

Things to do in and around Durham

Durham offers a delightful blend of outdoor activities and scenic beauty, perfect for a short break. Enjoy leisurely strolls along the riverside and explore the picturesque walking trails. The city is home to various attractions, including educational sites and recreational areas, making it an ideal destination for both adventure and relaxation. Don't miss the opportunity to unwind at a local spa during your stay in this charming city.

Shopping

If you're up for a drive, the Metrocentre, located 20.9km away, offers a vibrant mix of shopping and entertainment. Closer to the city, the Newgate Shopping Centre, just 14.5km away, provides a family-friendly atmosphere, while Sweet Greetings, located 16.1km away, is perfect for unique gifts.

Recreation

Experience the vibrant atmosphere at Gala Theatre Durham, where culture and entertainment merge. Enjoy a round of golf amidst scenic landscapes at Brancepeth Castle Golf Club, or unwind at Spennymoor Leisure Centre, just 9.7km away, offering a serene space for relaxation and wellness activities.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of Diggerland, where you can operate real diggers and construction machinery in a fun-filled environment. For karting enthusiasts, head to Karting North East, offering exhilarating races. Enjoy the stunning scenery along the Waskerly Way Bike Path, perfect for hiking and outdoor adventures.

Nightlife

Durham's nightlife offers a charming blend of pubs and bars. Visit the popular The Half Moon for a relaxed pint and live music, or head to The Cellar for an intimate atmosphere and unique cocktails. For a lively vibe, try the vibrant Klute nightclub, perfect for dancing the night away.

Find the best attractions in and around Durham

Durham offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and rich history, making it ideal for culture enthusiasts and families alike. Key attractions include the stunning Durham Cathedral, the iconic Durham Castle, and the charming streets of Durham City. Exploring the picturesque landscapes of County Durham further enhances the experience, ensuring visitors enjoy a memorable vacation filled with scenic beauty and cultural heritage.

• Beamish Open Air Museum: Experience life as it was in the 19th and early 20th centuries at this immersive open-air museum. Wander through reconstructed historic buildings, enjoy traditional crafts, and interact with costumed staff, all set in a picturesque landscape just 12.9km from Durham.
• Palace Green: Nestled in the heart of Durham, this vibrant urban park is perfect for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Take a leisurely stroll, enjoy a picnic, or simply relax while soaking in the stunning views of the surrounding historic architecture.
• Angel of the North: Marvel at this iconic piece of public art, standing tall at 20 metres with a wingspan of 54 metres. Located 14.5km from Durham, the Angel of the North is a striking symbol of North East England, offering excellent photo opportunities and a unique artistic experience.

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	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 during the off-peak season (typically January to March) for more affordable package holidays to Durham.
• 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.