Durham Tourist Information
The city of Durham developed in a great loop of the the River Wear known as the Durham Penninsular.
The name Durham derives from the Old English 'dun holm', meaning 'hill island'.
Durham is said to have been built on seven hills and at its most prominent point above the River Wear stands the cathedral, dominating the city's skyline.
Because of its historical importance, the whole centre of Durham was designated a Conservation Area in 1980. In 1986 Durham Cathedral and Castle became jointly a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Although the ancient settlement can be traced back to around 2000 BC, the present city dates from 995 AD. In this year a group of monks from the Holy Island of Lindisfarne settled on the high penninsular with the body of St Cuthbert (that had previously lain at Chester-le-Street) and established a church there.
Following 1066 the Normans chose Durham as a strategic location from which to rule Northumbria and Durham Castle was completed in 1072. The community of Cuthbert was replaced by Benedictine monks and a prince bishop appointed by the king.
Durham Cathedral, dating from 1093, provided a monumental shrine to St Cuthbert. Considered to be the finest Norman archecture in England, Durham Cathedral also contains the remains of the Venerable Bede.
Durham Castle, set behind the cathedral, not only gave protection but also provided a palace for the prince bishops.
Durham lies close to the Scottish border and in the first 300 years after the castle was built the city was regularly besieged by the Scots.
In medieval times the city's strategic position near the border meant that it developed as a major centre of political and ecclesiastical power.
County Durham was a palatine ruled by prince bishops who had secular power and enjoyed considerable automony from Westminster. The prince bishops acted as absolute rulers of the northern province on behalf of the king and in return for their power they were expected to levy an army, especially if there was any threat from the Scots.
The city's prosperity developed around the cathedral and the shrine of St Cuthbert. One of the richest shrines in England, it attracted pilgrims from all over the world.
Durham became a flourishing market town. The prince bishops began to decline in importance after Henry VIII had St Cuthbert's shrine smashed in 1538 and they finally lost their powers following the Great Reform Act of 1832. The last of the prince bishops, Bishop van Mildert, relinquished his rights and also his castle in 1836.
When University College was established in Durham Castle in 1837 the Bishop of Durham's sole residence became nearby Auckland Castle.
In the 19th century County Durham, at the heart of the vital coal fields, developed as an important mining centre. Although the mines have now all closed, the Miners' Gala, held on the second Saturday in July, is still Durham's major social event. The event for ex-miners, their families and friends includes a special service at Durham Cathedral. Processions are lead by colliery bands and mining villages' banners are proudly displayed in the streets.
The compact city is easy for visitors explore on foot. Downhill from the castle and cathedral the medieval layout of the city can still be made out in its narrow winding streets.
Durham has a long association with markets that dates back to Saxon and Norman times. For hundreds of years the cobbled Market Place was the focal point for traders but by the beginning of the 19th century it had become overcrowded , so in 1851 a new Market Hall was established on part of the site of the medieval palace of New Place. Weekly markets were held here until 1996 when the Victorian building was refurbished.
Now the indoor Victorian Market, housing over 80 stalls, is open from Monday to Saturday, with additional stalls in the Market Place on Saturdays. Outdoor markets are also held in the Market Place, including a popular monthly Farmers' Market.
Shopping centres in the city include the Prince Bishops Shopping Centre in the High Street and the Gates Shopping Centre in Framwellgate Bridge on the north side of the River Wear.
The wooded banks of the River Wear give Durham a picturesque beauty - a haven from the hustle and bustle of the city. Enjoy a peaceful stroll or take a trip on the river when you are visiting.
Durham has a Tourist Information CentreWhat to see - Durham Tourist Attractions To Visit
The Sacred Journey, Durham
The Sacred Journey, a spectacular, specially commissioned film relating the life and death of St Cuthbert and the foundation of the city of Durham, The Sacred Journey information
Diggerland Riverside Industrial Estate, Langley Park, Durham DH7 9TT
This unique adventure park gives children (and adults if they wish!) the chance to ride in, and drive, many types of construction vehicles. Diggerland information
Durham Regatta, Durham
The Durham Regatta is the second oldest regatta in the UK. Durham Regatta information
River trips Prince Bishop River Cruiser, Browns Boat House, Elvet Bridge, Durham DH1 3AF
The Prince Bishop River Cruiser offers one hour sight-seeing trips along the river, with stunning views of the city. River trips information
Durham Racecourse, Durham
This attractive open area backing on to the River Wear is home to some of Durham University's playing fields. Horse races have not been held here since the 19th century and today it is a popular place for walkers. Durham Racecourse information
Durham Castle Palace Green, Durham DH1 3RW
A Norman castle, 1072. The Bishop had the responsibility of the cathedral and fortress. Only the chapel and part of the Great Hall survive. The last addition was made after the Civil War, remaining as a episcipal palace until 1832. In the 1930s a rescue o Durham Castle information
Durham Cathedral, Durham DH1 3EH
Durham Cathedral has the most majestic setting of all the English cathedrals. The cathedral dominates the skyline of the city and is the finest of England's Norman churches.The shrine of St Cuthbert, Galilee Chapel,tester, designed by Sir Ninian Comper. Durham Cathedral information
University of Durham Botanical Garden Hollingside Lane, South Road, Durham DH1 3TN
18 acre botanical garden set in mature woodland, with exotic trees from the Himalayas and America. Highlights include the Prince Bishops Garden, bamboo grove, woodland garden, alpine garden, tropical house and cactus house, with butterflies and insects. University of Durham Botanical Garden information
Old Durham Gardens Shincliffe, Durham
These terraced riverside gardens once belonged to a 17th century mansion. Although the house was demolished the following century the gardens have survived. Old Durham Gardens information
Houghall College Gardens Stockton Road, Houghall, Durham
Just outside the centre of Durham, this 25 acre garden is used as training grounds for horticulture students from the College. The gardens boast a range of gardening styles including formal beds, rock, water, heather and woodland gardens. Houghall College Gardens information
Fowlers Yard Creative Workspaces Back Silver Street, Durham
Located in old stables on the banks of the River Wear, Fowlers Yard is a complex of nine workspaces for artists, craftsmen and creative businesses. The complex is open to the public, Fowlers Yard Creative Workspaces information
Croxdale Hall Croxdale, Durham DH6 5JP
Set above the River Wear, this Grade 1 listed building has been home to the Salvin family since 1402. The earlier Tudor house was recased in the 18th century and its comfortably-furnished mid-Georgian rooms boast fine Rococo ceilings. Croxdale Hall information
Monks Dormitory The Chapter Office, The College, Durham DH1 3EH
The Monks Dormintory surmounts the north-west corner of the cloisters of Durham Cathedral. In the 13th century around 40 monks slept in cubicles in this building. Monks Dormitory information
Finchale Priory Brasside, Durham DH1 5SH
The remains of Finchale Priory lie on the banks of the River Wear. Established in the 13th century the small Benedictine communitywas dependant on nearby Durham Cathedral. The Priory was later used as a holiday retreat for monks of Durham Cathedral. Finchale Priory information
Durham University, Durham
Durham University is the third oldest in England, after Oxford and Cambridge, founded in 1832. The University has buildings on the Durham Peninsular and on Elvet Hill, on the other side of the river. Durham University information
Crook Hall & Gardens Frankland Lane, Sidegate, Durham DH1 5SZ
In 4 acres of gardens, Crook Hall is a medieval manor house dating back to the 13th century. Banquetting hall with a minstrels' gallery and a 17th century Jacobean drawing room, said to be haunted by the "White Lady". Crook Hall & Gardens information
The Treasures of St Cuthbert The College, Durham Cathedral, Durham DH1 3EH
Important Anglo Saxon and Medieval relics are housed at the Cathedral. These include the original coffin in which the body of St Cuthbert lay. St Cuthbert (643 - 87 AD) was buried on the Holy Island of Lindisfarne but following Viking raids in 875 AD the The Treasures of St Cuthbert information
Durham Heritage Centre and Museum Saint Mary-le-Bow, North Bailey, Durham DH1 3ET
Housed in the medieval church of St Mary-le-Bow, this museum tells the history of Durham from the Middle Ages to today. Durham Heritage Centre and Museum information
Durham Light Infantry Museum & Durham Art Gallery Aykley Heads, Durham DH1 5TU
Reopened in 2000 after redevelopment, this museum traces the story of the Durham Light Infantry from 1758 until it became part of the Light Infantry in 1968. World War I and World War II history and the story of the home front. Durham Light Infantry Museum & Durham Art Gallery information
Durham University Oriental Museum Elvet Hill, (off South Road), Durham DH1 3TH
Opened in 1960, the Oriental Museum is the only musuem in the UK devoted entirely to oriental art and antiques. Durham University Oriental Museum information
Museum of Archaeology The Old Fulling Mill, The Banks, Durham DH1 3EB
Set below Durham Cathedral, the Museum is one of the most photographed buildings in the North-East. The Old Fulling Mill became the home of the Durham University's archaeological collections in the 1970s. Museum of Archaeology information
Wharton Park, Durham
This city centre park offers spectacular views of Durham. Highlights include impressive floral displays and a Victorian-style conservatory. There are also lots of activities for children and sports facilities. Wharton Park information
Gala Theatre and Cinema Millenium Place, Durham DH1 1WA
In a beautiful location beside the River Wear, this purpose-built venue has a state-of-the-art theatre, 2 cinema screens, conference facilities and a cafe. The venue attracts the best in live entertainment including theatre companies, comedians, musician Gala Theatre and Cinema information
Where to stay in Durham
Hotels
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34 Old Elvet Durham DH1 3HN MAP Gadds Town House is set in a Grade II-Listed Georgian town house, offering individually themed rooms in Durham's charming Old Elvet area. Durham Cathedral and the 11th-century castle are within 10 minutes' walk. More Information and Book ... |
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Old Elvet Durham DH1 3JN MAP Set within a beautiful 18th century building, this luxurious hotel boasts a central location in the historic cathedral city of Durham, with views over the River Wear. Guests get 1 hour of free Wi-Fi in public areas. More Information and Book ... |
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Framwellgate Waterside Durham DH1 5TA MAP Just 1 mile from Durham Rail Station and city centre, the Radisson BLU Durham has fantastic views of Durham Cathedral. It offers stylish rooms, free Wi-Fi, a restaurant, bar and modern health club. More Information and Book ... |
Guest Houses, Bed and Breakfasts, Inns and other Hotels
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Running Waters/Sherburn House Durham DH1 2SR MAP The Three Horseshoes is situated within 10 minutes' drive of the beautiful city of Durham. With parts of the building over 300 years old, it still retains some quirky, original features. More Information and Book ... |
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Hett Hills Chester-le-Street Durham DH2 3JU MAP Overlooking the West Durham Hills, The Moorings Hotel is just 5 minutes' drive from Chester-le-Street. With a stylish bistro and cosy bar, the hotel offers modern rooms with free Wi-Fi. More Information and Book ... |
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Durham DH1 5RA MAP This 18th-century house is just 2 miles from the historic centre of Durham, and boasts free Wi-Fi and free parking on site. More Information and Book ... |
Holiday Cottages
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Little White Farm Brancepeth near Durham DH7 8DR MAP Surrounded by peaceful countryside yet only 15 minutes from Durham city this converted barn is finished to a good standard with spacious interiors and two ensuite bathrooms and a well equipped kitchen. Set on a 450 acre working farm with footpaths and cyc Sleeps 4 More Information and Book ... |
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Old Durham Farmhouse Bent House Lane near Durham DH1 2RY MAP Tucked away down a country lane and surrounded by rolling countryside this converted dairy is renovated to a good standard with well equipped kitchen and beautiful bathrooms spacious sitting room with double height beamed ceiling and minstrel balcony. Set Sleeps 6 More Information and Book ... |
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Plawsworth near Durham DH3 4EQ MAP The Old Powerhouse is a cosy detached conversion in the owners' three-acres of landscaped grounds. Sleeps: 4 Bedrooms: 2 Bathrooms: 1 Changeover Day: Sat Price Guide: £259 - £575 a week. More Information and Book ... |
Days Out Near Durham
Towns Near Durham To Visit - straight line distance:
Chester-le-Street (5.72 miles) Ferryhill (6.54 miles) Crook (7.91 miles) Stanley (8.21 miles)
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