Find hotels in Durham from £36

Top reasons to visit Durham

• Iconic Landmarks: Visit the magnificent Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites that showcase the city's rich history.
• Scenic Riverbanks: Enjoy leisurely walks along the picturesque riverbanks, perfect for relaxing and taking in the natural beauty.
• Charming Parks: Explore the lovely parks throughout the city, ideal for family outings and tranquil strolls.
• Vibrant City Centre: Experience the lively atmosphere of the city centre, filled with friendly locals and family-friendly attractions.
• Diverse Accommodation: Choose from a range of comfortable hotels and guesthouses, catering to every traveller's needs.

Find great hotels near Durham

Discover a range of accommodation options in Durham, from charming guesthouses to well-equipped hotels, perfect for every type of traveller. Whether you seek a family-friendly environment, a pet-friendly retreat, or a business-focused stay, Durham's hotels provide a blend of comfort and convenience. Explore the best Durham hotels, including budget-friendly choices like Travelodge, ensuring a memorable visit to this historic city.

• Leonardo Hotel Newcastle: Nestled 8.1km from Durham, the Leonardo Hotel Newcastle is a 4-star haven tailored for adventurous souls and eco-conscious travellers. With its eco-certification, the property prioritises sustainability while offering modern business amenities such as multiple meeting rooms and conference space. Guests can indulge in a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, sailing, windsurfing, mountain biking, and kayaking, all available nearby. This hotel perfectly combines a business-friendly atmosphere with the thrill of adventure, making it an excellent choice for those seeking both relaxation and excitement.
• Copthorne Hotel Newcastle: Situated 8.1km from Durham, the Copthorne Hotel Newcastle is a welcoming 4-star accommodation that embraces eco-friendliness and inclusivity. This hotel is ideal for LGBTQIA travellers and those seeking a business-centric environment, featuring multiple meeting rooms and conference space for corporate needs. Its eco-certification reflects the hotel’s commitment to sustainability, ensuring a responsible stay. The Copthorne Hotel combines professionalism with a warm atmosphere, making it a perfect choice for those who value both business efficiency and social inclusivity.
• Crowne Plaza Newcastle - Stephenson Quarter by IHG: Located 8.1km from Durham, the Crowne Plaza Newcastle - Stephenson Quarter by IHG is a luxurious 4-star property that caters to business travellers while offering a serene spa experience. This hotel is LGBTQIA-friendly and features extensive business amenities, including a conference centre, multiple meeting rooms, and a fully equipped business centre. Guests can unwind in the full-service spa, complete with a sauna, steam room, and a range of body treatments, ensuring a perfect balance of work and relaxation for a truly rejuvenating stay.

Where to stay in and around Durham

Durham offers a captivating blend of history and culture, perfect for an adventurous getaway. Explore the stunning Durham Cathedral and the picturesque riverbanks, all just minutes from the railway station. Venture to the nearby Durham Coast for breathtaking scenery and relaxing walks. The city centre buzzes with friendly locals and family-friendly attractions, making it an ideal base for discovering the charm of this beautiful region.

• Chester-le-Street: Situated 3.1km from Durham, Chester-le-Street is a vibrant city that blends rich history with modern amenities. Visitors flock here for its cultural experiences and outdoor adventures. The city boasts a range of attractions, including historic sites and monuments that narrate its past. The town is home to a variety of recreational areas and a shopping mall, making it perfect for both relaxation and retail therapy. Peak travel seasons occur between June to July and September, so plan accordingly to enjoy its bustling atmosphere.
• Shincliffe: Nestled close to Durham, Shincliffe is a charming village that offers a serene escape from urban life. Known for its cultural and outdoor pursuits, visitors can explore historic college buildings and castles that dot the landscape. The village's attractions cater to both sports enthusiasts and those seeking a leisurely spa day. Popular travel times are in March to April and September, ensuring a great experience without the overwhelming crowds. Its tranquil setting makes it an ideal spot for a peaceful retreat.
• Bowburn: Located in the vicinity of Durham, Bowburn is a picturesque village that promises stunning scenery and outdoor adventures. This village is perfect for nature lovers, with easy access to national parks and recreational areas. The best time to visit is typically between February to March and September, when the village is alive with activity. Whether you're hiking through lush landscapes or enjoying the local parks, Bowburn offers a refreshing blend of tranquillity and adventure for every traveller.

Things to do in and around Durham

Durham offers a delightful blend of outdoor and adventure activities, making it an ideal destination for scenic vacations. Visitors can explore educational attractions, unwind in recreational areas, and indulge in relaxing spa experiences. Whether you're keen on soaking up the natural beauty or seeking engaging activities, Durham has something to suit every taste.

Shopping

In Durham, you can enjoy shopping at Sweet Greetings, located 6.2km away, offering unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, visit Intu, 8.1km away, for a vibrant shopping experience with a mix of entertainment and family-friendly options. Grainger Market, 8.7km away, boasts local produce and artisanal goods.

Recreation

At Brancepeth Castle Golf Club, enjoy a round of golf amid stunning landscapes, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Spennymoor Leisure Centre offers a serene environment for wellness activities, including relaxation sessions. Houghton le Spring Golf Club provides an invigorating golfing experience, surrounded by beautiful scenery just a short drive from Durham.

Adventure

Karting North East, located 5.0km from Durham, offers thrilling go-kart racing on an exciting track. Massive Attack Paintball, also 5.0km away, provides an adrenaline-pumping paintball experience. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Waskerly Way Bike Path, situated 5.0km from Durham, boasts breathtaking scenery along its adventurous route.

Nightlife

In Durham, Diggerland offers a unique arcadeAdventureZone experience, perfect for families seeking adventure. For a touch of culture, Gala Theatre presents captivating performances in a romantic setting. Adventure Valley also provides thrilling activities in a vibrant atmosphere, ideal for family fun and excitement.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Durham

To save money on your visit to Durham, consider travelling during the off-peak months of December to February when prices are lower. Enjoy free attractions like Durham Cathedral and the Angel of the North. Utilize public transport, such as buses and trains, for cost-effective travel within the city. Booking your accommodation through platforms like Expedia can help you find great deals; be sure to compare room rates, book in advance, and consider package deals that combine flights and activities for additional savings. Lastly, aim to stay on a Thursday for the best hotel rates.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Durham are December to February, 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 Thursday. The most expensive day to stay in Durham is Saturday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to define your budget, choose your desired location, and much more. You can arrange your search results by price, from lowest to highest, allowing you to view the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the filter for Eco-certified hotels will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly accommodations that are available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Durham with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.

Find the best attractions in Durham

Durham offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and cultural experiences, making it an ideal destination for tourists. You can explore the historic Durham Castle and the stunning Durham Cathedral, both of which showcase the city's rich heritage. Additionally, the picturesque parks and university settings provide perfect opportunities for family outings and scenic strolls, ensuring a memorable visit to this charming English city.

• Durham University: This historic institution offers a blend of academic excellence and beautiful architecture. Stroll through its picturesque campus, where you'll experience a vibrant cultural atmosphere, and admire the stunning buildings that have stood for centuries.
• Durham Cathedral: A masterpiece of Norman architecture, this UNESCO World Heritage site captivates visitors with its grandeur and intricate stonework. The cathedral's serene interior and stunning stained glass windows create a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for reflection and appreciation of its rich history.
• Durham Castle: A striking medieval fortress, Durham Castle combines history with romance. Explore its opulent rooms and ancient corridors, and enjoy breathtaking views of the city and river from its ramparts, making it a perfect spot for history enthusiasts and couples alike.

Best time to go to Durham

The best time to visit Durham is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	38.8°F (3.8°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
February	39.9°F (4.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Slightly Low
March	42.3°F (5.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
April	45.7°F (7.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	50.7°F (10.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly High
June	56.3°F (13.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Slightly High
July	59.7°F (15.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly High	Average
August	59.4°F (15.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
September	55.9°F (13.3°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
October	50.7°F (10.4°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Average	Average
November	44.6°F (7.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Average
December	40.5°F (4.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Cloudy	Slightly Low	Slightly Low

The nearest major airports for your trip to Durham

When visiting Durham, you can conveniently fly into two major airports. Newcastle International Airport (NCL) is situated 11.8km away and offers excellent hotel options such as Hemples Lodge, a 4.5-star bed and breakfast only 1.2km from the airport, as well as the 4-star County Hotel and County Aparthotel, both 3.7km away. Alternatively, Teesside International Airport (MME), also 11.8km from Durham, features hotels like Rockliffe Hall, a 4.5-star establishment 3.1km away, and the 4-star Mercure Darlington Kings Hotel, also 3.1km distant. For those considering Carlisle Airport (CAX), located 31.1km away, nearby hotels include the 4-star Carlisle Station Hotel, just 3.7km from the airport.