Find the best Durham Hotels

Top reasons to visit Durham

• Iconic Architecture: Marvel at the stunning Durham Cathedral and historic Durham Castle, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
• Scenic River Wear: Enjoy picturesque walks along the River Wear, surrounded by beautiful landscapes.
• Rich Cultural Experience: Immerse yourself in local heritage through guided tours and festive events.
• Charming Villages: Explore quaint nearby villages, offering a taste of traditional English culture.
• Diverse Accommodation: Choose from a range of cosy B&Bs to modern hotels, perfect for every traveller.

Find great hotels in Durham

Discover the charm of Durham with a variety of accommodation options that cater to every traveller's needs. From cosy bed and breakfasts to modern hotels, you'll find the perfect place to unwind. Pet-friendly options and adventure-focused stays are plentiful, ensuring a memorable family vacation experience. Explore holiday cottages and vacation rentals throughout the area, making your visit to Durham both comfortable and enjoyable.

• Radisson BLU Hotel Durham: This 4-star hotel offers a unique blend of business and relaxation, making it ideal for eco-conscious travellers. Set in the heart of Durham, the Radisson BLU features a full-service spa and pool, providing rejuvenating treatments such as deep tissue massages and body wraps. Business guests can take advantage of multiple meeting rooms and an accessible business centre, ensuring a productive stay. With its eco-certification, this hotel prioritises sustainability, making it perfect for those looking to balance work and wellness in an environmentally friendly setting.
• Delta Hotels Durham Royal County: A charming 4-star accommodation, Delta Hotels Durham Royal County is an excellent choice for families and eco-minded visitors. Nestled in Durham, this hotel is designed with family-friendly amenities, including complimentary cribs for younger guests. The eco-certified property offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, ensuring a comfortable stay for all. With its focus on sustainability, families can enjoy their vacation knowing they are supporting an environmentally responsible establishment while exploring the beautiful surroundings of Durham.
• Ramside Hall Hotel, Golf and Spa: This luxurious 4-star hotel caters to business travellers and leisure seekers alike, with a distinct emphasis on golf and spa experiences. Located in picturesque Durham, Ramside Hall boasts multiple meeting rooms and a well-equipped business centre for corporate guests. Golf enthusiasts can indulge in the on-site golf course, while those seeking relaxation will appreciate the extensive spa services, including Swedish and Thai massages. The outdoor pool and sauna provide an idyllic setting for unwinding after a busy day, making this hotel a versatile choice for your stay.

Where to stay in Durham

Durham offers an enchanting blend of historical charm and natural beauty, perfect for a weekend break. Explore the iconic Durham Cathedral and the picturesque River Wear, or enjoy family-friendly adventures in the surrounding countryside. For those seeking relaxation, the tranquil landscapes and friendly atmosphere make it an ideal destination for short breaks. Don't miss the quaint villages nearby, where you can immerse yourself in local culture and enjoy the warmth of friendly people.

• Durham: Nestled in the heart of County Durham, this charming city is renowned for its historic cathedral and castle, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Durham offers a blend of rich history and stunning natural scenery, making it a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and culture lovers alike. The city boasts numerous parks and riverside walks, ideal for leisurely strolls. With a vibrant student population from Durham University, the city has a youthful energy complemented by a variety of cafes, restaurants, and cultural events throughout the year, especially peaking in June and September.
• Stockton-on-Tees: Just a short drive from Durham, Stockton-on-Tees is an up-and-coming city offering a variety of recreational activities. Known for its picturesque riverside setting, visitors can enjoy scenic walks along the Tees and explore local parks. The city hosts a range of events and festivals, particularly in the warmer months of April and July. With its wellness centres and spas, Stockton-on-Tees is also a great spot for relaxation after a day of adventure. Don't miss the opportunity to visit local attractions such as the national parks and the iconic stadium, which hosts various sporting events.
• Barnard Castle: A delightful market town, Barnard Castle is famed for its stunning castle ruins that overlook the River Tees. This area is a haven for those seeking outdoor activities, with nearby national parks offering trails for walking and cycling. The town itself has a quaint charm, featuring independent shops and cafes. Peak visiting months from July to September see tourists flocking to enjoy the scenery and local events. Barnard Castle is also known for its spa facilities, making it an ideal spot for rejuvenation after exploring the captivating landscapes surrounding it.

Things to do in Durham

Durham offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and scenic beauty, perfect for a memorable getaway. Visitors can explore the charming recreational areas, indulge in spa treatments, and immerse themselves in educational experiences. Highlighted activities include the festive Christmas festival, exciting guided tours, and a refreshing city break, ensuring there's something for everyone to enjoy in this historic city.

Shopping

In the heart of Durham, Sweet Greetings offers delightful gifts and souvenirs. For a broader shopping experience, if you're up for a drive, explore the Elvet Bridge area with its charming boutiques and cafés that cater to all your shopping needs.

Recreation

At Witton Castle, immerse yourself in nature with serene walks and tranquil surroundings, perfect for relaxation. The Garage Spa offers rejuvenating body treatments that will refresh your mind and body. Spennymoor Leisure Centre provides various fitness activities, ensuring a balanced approach to wellness and recreation.

Adventure

Experience the thrill of Beamish Wild's zipline ropes course, where you can soar through the trees and embrace the outdoor adventure vibes. For an action-packed day, try Massive Attack Paintball, offering an exhilarating experience. Alternatively, cycle or hike along the scenic Waskerly Way Bike Path, surrounded by stunning views.

Nightlife

In Durham, Diggerland offers a unique family-friendly arcade adventure, perfect for thrill-seekers. For a taste of culture and romance, the Gala Theatre presents captivating performances, while the Empire Theatre provides a cosy cinema experience, ideal for a romantic night out with loved ones.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Durham

To save money on your trip to Durham, consider visiting during the off-peak months of January to February or October, when accommodation prices are lower. Staying from Monday to Thursday can also help you avoid the weekend price hikes. Use Expedia to compare room rates and find great deals on hotels, and consider booking a package that combines your stay with flights and activities for additional savings. Finally, explore free attractions and use Durham's efficient public transport system to get around economically.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Durham are January to February and October, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to July and September, where prices are slightly higher.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Durham is Monday. The most expensive day to stay in Durham is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and additional preferences. You can arrange your results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring that the most affordable hotels appear first. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially save money by combining your hotel booking in Durham with your flights and activities by opting for an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in Durham

Durham offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and rich history, making it an ideal destination for travellers seeking culture and family experiences. Key attractions include the magnificent Durham Cathedral and the historic Durham Castle, alongside charming villages and the prestigious University. Whether you're exploring scenic landscapes or immersing yourself in local heritage, Durham promises a memorable getaway filled with diverse activities.

• Beamish Open Air Museum: Step back in time at this immersive open-air museum, where you can explore a historic village that brings the past to life. Experience Victorian, Edwardian, and 1940s life through authentic buildings, costumed staff, and interactive exhibits.
• Durham University: Renowned for its stunning architecture and rich heritage, Durham University offers a picturesque campus that combines historic charm with vibrant student life. Wander through its beautiful grounds and visit the impressive colleges that have educated generations.
• Durham Cathedral: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this magnificent Norman cathedral boasts breathtaking architecture and stunning stained glass. Explore its tranquil cloisters and learn about its significant role in English history.

Best time to go to Durham

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The nearest major airports for your trip to Durham

Durham is conveniently accessible via several major airports. Newcastle International Airport (NCL) is approximately 11.8km away, with nearby hotel options like the 4.5-star Hemples Lodge, only 1.2km from the airport, and the 4-star County Hotel and County Aparthotel, both situated 3.7km away. Leeds Bradford Airport (LBA) is located about 39.1km from Durham, with excellent hotels such as the 5-star Timble Inn and The Grafton, both within a short drive. Alternatively, Teesside International Airport (MME) is also around 11.8km away, featuring hotels like the 4.5-star Rockliffe Hall and the 4-star Mercure Darlington Kings Hotel, both within 3.1km of the airport.