Pity Me offers a peaceful retreat just outside Durham city. This affordable residential village provides an authentic glimpse into everyday British suburban life. Regular bus services connect you to Durham's historic attractions within 20 minutes. Enjoy the quiet streets lined with red brick homes and well-kept gardens. The village has a few local pubs serving traditional British fare and ales. While Pity Me itself has limited amenities, it serves as an excellent base for exploring nearby highlights like Durham Cathedral and Lumley Castle. The countryside setting provides clean air and tranquil evenings away from tourist crowds.
Brasside offers peaceful suburban living just outside the bustling centre of Durham. This quiet residential area borders Low Newton Nature Reserve, giving visitors easy access to countryside walks and natural beauty. The area provides a genuine glimpse into everyday British life away from tourist crowds. Adventure Valley and Finchale Priory make excellent day trips from this budget-friendly base. Most travellers appreciate having a car to explore Durham's cathedral and castle. The local pub provides a taste of authentic community life where you can chat with friendly residents.
Discover the most popular places to visit in Durham
Photo by Mike Shorten
Open Photo by Mike Shorten
Durham University
9.0/10 (386 reviews)
Explore a UNESCO World Heritage Site where medieval Durham Castle meets academic excellence. Wander through historic quads and experience centuries of scholarly tradition in this remarkable setting.
Durham Cathedral
9.6/10 (652 reviews)
This Norman masterpiece showcases breathtaking vaulted ceilings and houses the relics of St. Cuthbert. Climb the central tower for panoramic countryside views or attend one of the cathedral's atmospheric concerts.
Photo by Mike Shorten
Open Photo by Mike Shorten
Durham Castle
9.0/10 (364 reviews)
This Norman fortress from 1072 now houses part of Durham University while preserving its medieval grandeur. Take a guided tour to discover the Great Hall, Norman Chapel, and historic Black Staircase.
Photo by Mike Shorten
Open Photo by Mike Shorten
Gala Theatre Durham
7.6/10 (19 reviews)
The Gala Theatre features a 510-seat auditorium with perfect sightlines for theatre, comedy, and film in Durham's heart. Book ahead for the annual Christmas pantomime, a quintessential British cultural experience.
Crook Hall and Gardens
8.0/10 (13 reviews)
This 13th-century medieval hall showcases a tapestry of themed gardens, from Shakespeare to Secret Walled spaces. Wander through colourful blooms with Durham Cathedral views before enjoying a traditional cream tea.
Palace Green
8.6/10 (29 reviews)
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.
Durham Heritage Centre and Museum
8.0/10 (1 review)
You can study the exhibits at Durham Heritage Centre and Museum, a museum with a storied past, during your trip to Durham. Stroll along the riverfront in this culturally rich area or visit its top-notch restaurants.
Palace Green Library
Find out about the history of Durham when you take a trip to Palace Green Library. Visit the stunning cathedral and top-notch restaurants in this family-friendly area.
"The building has been renovated to a very high standard and kept the original structure intact, preserving the architectural features of the former council chambers. The staff were excellent, the food delightful and the bar experience benefitted with the unique surroundings."
"We had an excellent stay, on entry the reception where having trouble with their Internet connection. We received a room upgrade for the inconvenience."
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
You can pick up a holiday package to this popular destination on Expedia. However, how much your holiday to Durham costs will depend on factors like your hotel choice, season and length of stay.
What are the cheapest months to go to Durham?
If you're hoping to score a cheap Durham holiday package, consider visiting in February, November and December. You'll typically find lower prices on airfares and hotels during these months — perfect for travellers wishing to save money.
How many days is enough for Durham?
Durham holidays come in all shapes and sizes, but to really get a feel for this place, we think 2 days is a good ballpark. In this timeframe, you can visit headline attractions like Diggerland and Gala Theatre Durham and seek out some lesser-known spots. Don't skip cool neighbourhoods such as Carrville and Broompark either. If you're smart with your time, you can even schedule a day trip from Durham too.
Is it worth booking a holiday package to Durham?
Whether you'd like to explore top sights like Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle on your Durham holiday, or coming for its excellent nature, views and walking trails, there's something for everyone here. With so much to experience, you'll soon discover why so many travellers think Durham is a good holiday destination.
How to find the best Durham package deals?
Use Expedia's filters to find some tempting Durham package deals. When you start your search, just set your maximum budget and then sort the results by "Price: low to high." If you're looking to save, plan your adventure for midweek, or browse for Durham package deals in the off-peak season. Play around with your travel dates and you may score even better discounts. As a rule of thumb, it's usually best to lock in your holiday package well in advance.
Is it cheaper to book a Durham holiday as a package?
An Expedia holiday package could save you hundreds of dollars when compared to booking accommodation and flights separately. Better still, you can tailor your Durham trip to match your exact needs. Pick your preferred flight time, select the hotel type and add a car rental. Browse our great deals to see how much you can save.
When to book a holiday package to Durham?
Secure incredible discounts by reserving your flights ahead of time with Expedia. If spontaneity is more your style, take advantage of our last-minute deals for an impromptu Durham adventure.
How to plan a trip to Durham?
Pick your travel dates: What you'd like to do in Durham and your preferred season can help you decide when to travel.
Budget wisely: In addition to the cost of your stay, you should factor in other expenses. These include food, flights and transportation. Also, put aside some extra funds for unexpected expenses that may arise during your trip to Durham.
Decide your trip length: Consider how long you'd like to spend discovering Durham. Plan your itinerary so you can get to all the activities and attractions you're interested in without rushing.
Bundle your airfare and accommodation: After you've settled on your dates and duration, lock in the right Durham holiday package for you.
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.
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.
* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.