Find the best Durham Hotels

Top reasons to visit Durham

• Historic Attractions: Explore the majestic Durham Cathedral and the iconic Durham Castle, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites that showcase stunning architecture and rich history.
• Scenic Countryside: Enjoy the picturesque landscapes surrounding Durham, perfect for outdoor activities like hiking and cycling.
• Cultural Experiences: Attend performances at the vibrant Gala Theatre and immerse yourself in local arts and culture.
• Charming City Centre: Discover the friendly atmosphere of Durham’s city centre, filled with quaint shops and cafés.
• Diverse Accommodation: Choose from a range of delightful places to stay, from cosy bed and breakfasts to family-friendly hotels.

Find great hotels in Durham

Discover a range of delightful accommodation options in Durham, perfect for every type of traveller. From charming bed and breakfasts to well-appointed hotels, you'll find pet-friendly and family-oriented facilities to enhance your stay. Whether you're seeking adventure or a relaxing getaway, Durham's hotels provide the ideal base for exploring this historic city. Enjoy a memorable holiday experience with a variety of choices tailored to your needs.

• Radisson BLU Hotel Durham: A sophisticated 4-star hotel, Radisson BLU Hotel Durham is perfect for both business and leisure travellers. This hotel boasts a sleek, contemporary design and offers a range of amenities tailored to professional needs, including multiple meeting rooms and a fully accessible business centre. Families will appreciate the child-friendly services such as free cribs. For relaxation, guests can indulge in an array of spa treatments or unwind in the indoor pool, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a rejuvenating stay.
• Delta Hotels Durham Royal County: An eco-conscious gem, Delta Hotels Durham Royal County is a 4-star establishment that prioritises sustainability without compromising comfort. This family-friendly hotel provides a welcoming atmosphere for eco-friendly travellers, with amenities designed for children, including free cribs. Its prime location allows easy access to Durham's rich history and natural beauty, offering a perfect base for exploring the city while being committed to environmental responsibility. Enjoy a guilt-free stay where comfort meets conscience.
• Ramside Hall Hotel, Golf and Spa: A splendid choice for those who appreciate a blend of luxury and leisure, Ramside Hall Hotel, Golf and Spa is a 4-star hotel known for its exceptional golf facilities and pet-friendly policy. Business travellers will find multiple meeting rooms and a dedicated business centre, while sports enthusiasts can indulge in a round of golf on-site. The hotel also welcomes pets, ensuring that your furry friends can accompany you on your travels. Guests can unwind in the spa after a day of activities, making it perfect for a well-rounded getaway.

Where to stay in Durham

Durham offers a captivating blend of history and natural beauty, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. Just minutes from the railway, explore the charming city centre with its friendly atmosphere and historic sites. Venture into the picturesque Durham countryside for serene landscapes and adventure. Whether you seek relaxation or vibrant experiences, Durham's welcoming vibe ensures a seamless travel experience that caters to all.

• Durham: Nestled in the heart of County Durham, this historic city is renowned for its stunning architecture and rich heritage. Visitors flock to Durham for its scenic outdoor experiences, with the picturesque River Wear winding through the landscape and the impressive Durham Cathedral standing sentinel over the city. The university town offers a blend of education, recreation, and relaxation, making it a perfect destination for those seeking cultural enrichment and natural beauty. Don’t miss the chance to explore the nearby national parks and historic university grounds, which provide ample opportunities for adventure and leisure alike.
• Stockton-on-Tees: Just a short journey from Durham, Stockton-on-Tees is a vibrant city that combines urban excitement with beautiful outdoor spaces. Known for its bustling town centre, visitors can enjoy a variety of recreational activities, including scenic walks along the River Tees and access to local parks. The city also features a delightful mix of spas and wellness centres, perfect for those looking to unwind. With landmarks such as the Tees Barrage and a lively stadium, Stockton-on-Tees offers an engaging experience for adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike.
• Barnard Castle: A charming market town located to the southwest of Durham, Barnard Castle is famed for its breathtaking landscapes and historic castle ruins that overlook the River Tees. The area is ideal for outdoor pursuits, with numerous walking trails and scenic viewpoints that showcase the natural beauty of the surrounding countryside. Visitors can explore local spas for some pampering or venture into the nearby national parks for a more adventurous experience. Barnard Castle presents a unique blend of history and nature, making it a perfect stop for those looking to immerse themselves in the tranquillity of the English countryside.

Things to do in Durham

Durham offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and scenic beauty, making it a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can explore its recreational areas, engage in educational activities, or indulge in a relaxing spa experience. With its rich heritage and picturesque landscapes, Durham promises an enjoyable getaway filled with various activities for all ages.

Shopping

For souvenirs, visit Sweet Greetings in central Durham for delightful gifts and treats. If you're up for a drive, head to the Metrocentre in Gateshead, offering a vast selection of shops, from high-street brands to unique boutiques.

Recreation

Witton Castle offers a tranquil setting with scenic walks and a relaxing atmosphere, perfect for unwinding amidst nature. The Garage Spa provides luxurious body treatments in a calming environment, while Spennymoor Leisure Centre features various wellness activities to rejuvenate your mind and body.

Adventure

At Beamish Wild, experience the thrill of soaring through the trees on a zipline ropes course amidst a lively outdoor atmosphere. For a different adventure, head to Massive Attack Paintball for an action-packed day filled with excitement. Finally, enjoy a scenic hike along the Waskerly Way Bike Path, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Nightlife

In Durham, Diggerland offers a unique arcade adventure experience perfect for families and thrill-seekers. The Gala Theatre provides a cultural escape with its diverse entertainment offerings, while the Empire Theatre is ideal for a romantic cinema night, ensuring a vibrant nightlife atmosphere for all.

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 is perfect for outdoor and adventure vacations, offering a rich tapestry of scenery and culture. Key attractions include the impressive Durham Castle, the stunning Durham Cathedral, and the vibrant Gala Theatre. Whether you're exploring historic villages or the renowned university, there's something for everyone—ideal for families and culture enthusiasts alike. Enjoy the blend of history and natural beauty that Durham has to offer.

• Beamish Open Air Museum: Experience life in the past at this immersive open-air museum, where you can wander through a recreated historic village. Enjoy traditional crafts, interact with costumed staff, and explore vintage trams, offering a unique glimpse into 19th and early 20th-century life.
• Durham University: Discover the stunning architecture and vibrant atmosphere of one of the UK's oldest universities. Wander through the picturesque college grounds, admire the historic buildings, and soak in the rich academic heritage that has shaped this esteemed institution.
• Durham Cathedral: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this magnificent Norman cathedral boasts stunning Romanesque architecture. Marvel at its intricate stonework, magnificent vaulted ceilings, and beautiful stained glass, while soaking in the serene atmosphere that has inspired countless visitors.

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.