Hotels in Durham

Durham: Where History Meets Nature Along the Enchanting Riverbanks

Discover the magnificent city of Durham, England, where history and natural beauty intertwine. Nestled along the banks of the River Wear, this charming destination boasts the breathtaking Durham Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the imposing Durham Castle, both steeped in rich heritage. Stroll through the cobblestone streets of the historic city centre, enjoy the lush Durham countryside, or relax in one of its scenic parks. With a vibrant university atmosphere and an array of cultural experiences, Durham promises an enchanting getaway for those seeking both adventure and tranquility. For great hotel rates in Durham, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Durham

Some of the best places to stay in Durham are Brasside, Pity Me and Chester-le-Street. Brasside, Pity Me, and Chester-le-Street each offer unique experiences for travellers exploring Durham, England. Brasside is a quaint village close to the city, while Pity Me provides easy access to local attractions. Chester-le-Street boasts historical sites and a vibrant community. Accommodations in these areas range from charming inns to modern hotels, catering to various budgets. For first-time visitors, Chester-le-Street is ideal due to its rich history and proximity to Durham city centre, including attractions like Durham Castle. Here are some of the most popular hotels with our guests in Durham:

1. BrassideOpens in a new window: Brasside is a charming location for those interested in culture, with significant landmarks nearby such as Durham University, Durham Cathedral, and Durham Castle, all steeped in history. This area is perfect for cultural enthusiasts and offers a romantic atmosphere. In Brasside, you can find hotels like Lumley Castle HotelOpens in a new window, a 4-star hotel situated in a national historic building, ideal for travellers seeking a historic vacation experience. Moor End House Bed & BreakfastOpens in a new window, a guesthouse offering free breakfast options, is perfect for those looking to enjoy entertainment options like television. For business and pet-friendly amenities, Ramside Hall HotelOpens in a new window has multiple meeting rooms and allows certain pets, making it suitable for both business and leisure travellers.
2. Pity MeOpens in a new window: Pity Me is another culturally rich area close to significant attractions like Durham University and Durham Cathedral. It's an excellent choice for families and business travellers alike. Notable accommodations include Castle View Guest HouseOpens in a new window, a guesthouse with free breakfast and nearby bicycling options, making it great for active travellers. Delta Hotels Durham Royal CountyOpens in a new window is a family-friendly hotel with amenities for children, ensuring a comfortable stay for families. For a more luxurious experience, Radisson BLU Hotel DurhamOpens in a new window offers a full spa and business facilities, catering to both family and corporate needs.
3. Chester-le-StreetOpens in a new window: Chester-le-Street, known for its cultural significance with attractions like the Beamish Open Air Museum, is an ideal base for exploring the region. This area is particularly well-suited for business travellers. Copthorne Hotel NewcastleOpens in a new window is a 4-star hotel with multiple meeting rooms, perfect for corporate events. Hilton Newcastle GatesheadOpens in a new window, located in the city centre, offers accessible business amenities and family-friendly services, making it versatile for different types of visitors. INNSiDE by Meliá NewcastleOpens in a new window allows pets, catering to those travelling with furry friends while providing essential business facilities.

Things to do in Durham for first times

Three days in Durham offer a delightful escape, blending historic charm with stunning natural landscapes. Explore lush parks and meandering rivers, perfect for leisurely walks or boating. Indulge in rejuvenating spa treatments and enjoy vibrant shopping experiences, making it a memorable destination for all types of travellers. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Durham:

• Day 1: Begin your adventure at the magnificent Durham Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that showcases stunning Norman architecture. Take your time to explore its impressive interior and learn about its historical significance. Next, wander over to Crook Hall and Gardens, where you can enjoy the tranquil gardens and perhaps indulge in a delightful afternoon tea. To wrap up your day, visit the Oriental Museum, which houses an intriguing collection of artifacts and art from Asia, providing a perfect cultural experience.
• Day 2: Start your day by exploring the impressive Durham Castle, a historic fortress that offers guided tours revealing its fascinating past. After soaking in the history, make your way to Finchale Priory, a peaceful site along the river that invites you to stroll through its scenic grounds. Conclude your day at the Durham Botanic Garden, where you can immerse yourself in diverse botanical displays and relax amidst nature’s beauty.
• Day 3: Kick off with a trip to the Beamish Open Air Museum, an immersive experience where you can step back in time and explore life in the 1820s, 1900s, and 1940s. After an engaging morning, head to the iconic Angel of the North, where you can marvel at this monumental sculpture and capture some memorable photos. Finish your day at Palace Green, where you can enjoy the beautiful surroundings and perhaps visit the nearby libraries and galleries that celebrate Durham’s rich cultural heritage.

4 tips to find a great Durham hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: For those looking to travel on a budget, the best time to visit Durham is during January, February, and December, when hotel rates are more affordable. Domestic travellers should aim to book their flights at least one month in advance for the best prices, while international travellers can save more by booking at least three months ahead. To fully appreciate Durham's highlights, including its stunning university and iconic cathedral, a stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended. This way, you can enjoy a great value for money while exploring this charming destination.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: If you're looking for last-minute deals in Durham, Hotels.com is an excellent resource to consider. You could find great prices on cheap hotels by checking the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section. It’s also a good idea to enable email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, as this way you’re more likely to stay informed about flash sales and exclusive promotions, allowing you the chance to compare room rates and book a budget-friendly stay.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate due to factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. Thus, being flexible with your travel dates could mean you may save on hotel expenses in Durham.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your holiday, take your location into account. Staying closer to major attractions or city centres may offer convenience, but it often tends to come with a higher price tag. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighbourhoods, finding a balance between cost and the ease of accessing the sites you wish to explore.

Best time to go to Durham

Durham experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 38.8°F (3.8°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 59.7°F (15.4°C). August is usually the wettest month. June, July, and September are the peak travel months in Durham, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, with light rainfall. On the other hand, May, November, and December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.