Durham Hotels

Best places to stay in Durham

Durham city centre is compact and divided in two by the River Wear. West of the river, we find Crossgate and Allergate, popular areas that are at the heart of the city’s nightlife, with bars, pubs, restaurants and shops all within an easy walk. The railway station is also just 10 minutes away, so it’s a great spot if you’re making a flying visit by train. To the east lies Elvet, which borders the river and offers easy access via footbridge to the city’s two knockout attractions, the cathedral and the castle. Nearby Claypath is a buzzing student hub, while Gilesgate is a little further out – still close enough to be part of the city, but with a distinct community feel of its own. If you’d prefer a bit more peace and quiet, numerous smaller villages are home to inns and country house hotels within a short drive.

Where to stay to be near the popular attractions in Durham

The stars of the show in Durham are undoubtedly the castle and cathedral, handily situated alongside one another in the heart of the city. The former, a Norman fortress, offers guided tours, while the latter is open to visitors for a peek free of charge (£5 donation encouraged). A lot of the buildings directly surrounding these imposing constructions are owned by the university, so finding a hotel right next door might be tricky – try nearby Crossgate or Elvet for more options. You’ll also be just a stone’s throw from Durham’s charming Market Hall, where over 40 independent traders ply their wares.

Where to stay with your family in Durham

A visit to a National Trust property is always a winner for families, and Crook Hall & Gardens ticks all the boxes for kids and adults, with a maze, a secret garden and an orchard, plus a café and outdoor terrace. The Radisson Blu is perfectly located nearby, slightly removed from the hubbub of the city centre but still within easy walking distance. Naturally, you won’t want to miss a visit to the cathedral given its starring role in multiple scenes from Marvel’s Avengers: Endgame as well as the Harry Potter films – what could be more magical?

Where to stay as a solo traveller

If you’re heading to Durham for a solo visit, why not treat yourself to the ultimate in comfort at Durham Riverside Apartments? These luxury apartments come with all the trimmings, from complimentary Nespresso coffee to a stunning terrace with a river view. The location on the banks of the Wear in Elvet is perfect for a stroll around the university, cathedral and castle, all less than half a mile away. If you fancy joining a group activity, book onto the Prince Bishop River Cruiser for a perspective you just can’t get as a landlubber.

Where to find cheap hotels in Durham

The Gilesgate area is top of the list for those in search of hotels in Durham on a budget. Travelodge Durham (double rooms from £44) is an ever-reliable choice, with comfy king-size beds in every room and plenty of dining options within easy reach. If you prefer something a bit more traditional, try the nearby Queen’s Head, a late-Victorian pub with bedrooms to suit all budgets, starting at just £35 a night. You won’t have to go far for a drink and a bite to eat, with the restaurant open from 12-9 pm Wednesday to Saturday and 12-4 pm Sundays. A little further out of town is the quaint OYO Seven Stars (doubles from £69). This small inn boasts excellent reviews, has a restaurant and bar and is situated in a quiet village just a 5-minute drive from central Durham. A great self-catering option is Durham Serviced Properties, located 10 minutes from the city centre by car, which offers spacious apartments with fully equipped kitchens for as little as £88/night.

The cathedral

Completed in 1093, Durham Cathedral was originally a monastery and is one of the best-preserved former monastic sites in the country. In the English Civil War of the mid-17th century, the building was used as a prison for thousands of Scots and was partly remodelled in the following centuries. In more recent years, however, refurbishment efforts have been centred on restoring the building in its traditional medieval style, like many of Durham's historic landmarks.

The castle

Although the current Durham Castle dates back to the Norman period, it is likely that a defence existed here in the Anglo-Saxon period. The building, which was designed in the motte and bailey style, was a bishop's palace for many years, and became the home of University College, Durham, in 1840. The castle and the cathedral were built in just four decades, which, for the Norman period, was particularly fast, and are probably best viewed from nearby Millburngate Bridge.

Other points of interest:

Visit the DLI Museum and Durham Art Gallery and learn about the history of the Durham Light Infantry over the last two centuries, or head to the Durham Museum and Heritage Centre to find out about the city's medieval origins.

If you're interested in discovering the ancient history of the local area, see The Wolfson Gallery: Living on the Hills, which exhibits archaeological artefacts from the last 10,000 years. The Oriental Museum, meanwhile, showcases many fascinating artworks and archaeological items from Asia, and is the only venue of its kind in Northern England.

Another popular, family-friendly attraction is Adventure Valley, which has a crazy golf course, indoor and outdoor play areas, and several other play zones for the kids. A little further afield, you can also witness the striking ruins of Finchale Priory, a Grade I-listed landmark that is more than 700 years old.

Dining suggestions

Treat yourself to some delightful local dishes at the Cross Keys Inn, or enjoy some excellent fine dining at the Restaurant DH1. The Bistro Fifty 3 and the Bella Mamma restaurants also provide other superb Italian-inspired recipes, while the Namastè restaurant is the place to be if you're a big fan of vibrant Indian cuisine.

Hotels with gourmet restaurants

Nestled in the lush grounds of its very own golf course just a 10-minute drive from central Durham, Ramside Hall Hotel is a foodie paradise with no less than four restaurants. The Clubhouse serves up traditional grub and drinks, and Pemberton’s Carvery is great for families, while Fusion offers a unique take on pan-Asian cuisine. The gourmet jewel in the crown is the Rib Room, a warm and welcoming space with walls covered in eye-catching artwork. This AA award-winning steakhouse and grill uses ultra-local Durham beef – take a look in the meat locker and see for yourself!

Spa hotels

Hotel Bannatyne is perfectly located just beyond Gilesgate, close to the historic city centre. The hotel’s well-equipped spa features hot tubs, a sauna, and five therapy rooms with treatments developed in partnership with Elemis. An enticing range of spa break packages are on offer, including Relax & Refresh and Indulge & Unwind. What’s more, guests get full, complimentary access to the gym and pool, so you’re sure to go home feeling like a million dollars.

Exceptional hotels

Why not stay in one instead of visiting a historic house on your Durham holiday? Built in 1808 as a Catholic seminary, Ushaw House was later expanded and reworked with fine examples of Gothic Revival architecture. Book a room in one of the many listed buildings and explore the wonderful grounds, which include perfectly manicured gardens, rolling fields and woodland trails.