Hotels in Durham

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Oct 10 - Oct 11
Tomorrow
Oct 11 - Oct 12
Next weekend
Oct 16 - Oct 18
In two weeks
Oct 23 - Oct 25

Where to stay in Durham?

Properties are selected based on real traveler reviews and popularity among guests who’ve booked a night in Durham on Hotels.com. These Durham hotels consistently deliver on quality, location and traveler experience. Last updated on .

1. Hotel Indigo Durham by IHG

Hotel Indigo Durham by IHG
Elvet
CA $149
CA $179 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 8 - Nov 9
Hotel Indigo Durham by IHG

2. Delta Hotels Durham Royal County

Delta Hotels Durham Royal County
Elvet
CA $127
CA $153 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 1 - Nov 2
Delta Hotels Durham Royal County

3. Radisson BLU Hotel Durham

Radisson BLU Hotel Durham
Durham
CA $140
CA $167 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 1 - Nov 2
Radisson BLU Hotel Durham

4. Premier Inn Durham City Centre - Walkergate

Premier Inn Durham City Centre - Walkergate
Durham Town Center
CA $85
CA $102 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 1 - Nov 2
Premier Inn Durham City Centre - Walkergate

5. 40 Winks

40 Winks
Durham
CA $265
CA $318 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 6 - Nov 7
40 Winks

6. Hotel Bannatyne Durham

Hotel Bannatyne Durham
Durham
CA $85
CA $102 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 25 - Oct 26
Hotel Bannatyne Durham

7. Ramside Hall Hotel, Golf and Spa

Ramside Hall Hotel, Golf and Spa
Durham
CA $184
CA $220 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 8 - Nov 9
Ramside Hall Hotel, Golf and Spa

8. Super 8 by Wyndham Durham

Super 8 by Wyndham Durham
Durham
CA $60
CA $72 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 1 - Nov 2
Super 8 by Wyndham Durham

9. The Kingslodge Inn - The Inn Collection Group

The Kingslodge Inn - The Inn Collection Group
Durham
CA $187
CA $225 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 8 - Nov 9
The Kingslodge Inn - The Inn Collection Group

10. Farnley Tower Guesthouse

Farnley Tower Guesthouse
Durham
CA $198
CA $238 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 11 - Oct 12
Farnley Tower Guesthouse

11. The Three Horseshoes

The Three Horseshoes
Durham
CA $134
CA $161 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 1 - Nov 2
The Three Horseshoes

12. Honest Lawyer Hotel

Honest Lawyer Hotel
Durham
CA $85
CA $102 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 8 - Nov 9
Honest Lawyer Hotel

13. The Old Mill

The Old Mill
Durham
CA $132
CA $158 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 1 - Nov 2
The Old Mill

14. 61 Durham

61 Durham
Durham
CA $99
CA $118 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 1 - Nov 2
61 Durham

15. The Queens Head

The Queens Head
Gilesgate
CA $122
CA $122 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 21 - Oct 22
The Queens Head

16. Premier Inn Durham North

Premier Inn Durham North
Pity Me
CA $77
CA $92 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 2 - Nov 3
Premier Inn Durham North

17. Bowburn Hall Hotel

Bowburn Hall Hotel
Durham
CA $140
CA $168 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 18 - Oct 19
Bowburn Hall Hotel

18. My Way Guest House

My Way Guest House
Durham
CA $142
CA $142 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 18 - Oct 19
My Way Guest House

19. OYO La Spada Boutique Hotel

OYO La Spada Boutique Hotel
Pity Me
CA $68
CA $87 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 15 - Oct 16
OYO La Spada Boutique Hotel

20. Hudson House

Hudson House
Durham
CA $661
CA $793 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 21 - Oct 22
Hudson House
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Hotel Indigo Durham by IHG

Hotel Indigo Durham by IHG
Elvet
Mobile Price CA $62 off
CA $279
per night
CA $671 total
includes taxes & fees
Hotel Indigo Durham by IHG

Delta Hotels Durham Royal County

Delta Hotels Durham Royal County
Elvet
CA $93 off
CA $263
per night
CA $630 total
includes taxes & fees
Delta Hotels Durham Royal County

Hotel Bannatyne Durham

Hotel Bannatyne Durham
Durham
CA $28 off
CA $124
per night
CA $297 total
includes taxes & fees
Hotel Bannatyne Durham

40 Winks

40 Winks
Durham
CA $204 off
CA $408
per night
CA $978 total
includes taxes & fees
40 Winks

Honest Lawyer Hotel

Honest Lawyer Hotel
Durham
CA $34 off
CA $154
per night
CA $370 total
includes taxes & fees
Honest Lawyer Hotel

61 Durham

61 Durham
Durham
CA $68 off
CA $145
per night
CA $348 total
includes taxes & fees
61 Durham

The Avenue

The Avenue
Durham
CA $37 off
CA $165
per night
CA $329 total
includes taxes & fees
The Avenue

Hotel Indigo Durham by IHG

Hotel Indigo Durham by IHG
Elvet
Mobile Price CA $17 off
CA $156
per night
CA $187 total
includes taxes & fees
Hotel Indigo Durham by IHG

40 Winks

40 Winks
Durham
CA $36 off
CA $266
per night
CA $319 total
includes taxes & fees
40 Winks

Ramside Hall Hotel, Golf and Spa

Ramside Hall Hotel, Golf and Spa
Durham
CA $44 off
CA $175
per night
CA $210 total
includes taxes & fees
Ramside Hall Hotel, Golf and Spa

Farnley Tower Guesthouse

Farnley Tower Guesthouse
Durham
CA $36 off
CA $202
per night
CA $242 total
includes taxes & fees
Farnley Tower Guesthouse

Hotel Bannatyne Durham

Hotel Bannatyne Durham
Durham
CA $24 off
CA $110
per night
CA $132 total
includes taxes & fees
Hotel Bannatyne Durham

Honest Lawyer Hotel

Honest Lawyer Hotel
Durham
CA $10 off
CA $92
per night
CA $110 total
includes taxes & fees
Honest Lawyer Hotel

61 Durham

61 Durham
Durham
CA $13 off
CA $117
per night
CA $141 total
includes taxes & fees
61 Durham

My Way Guest House

My Way Guest House
Durham
CA $18 off
CA $147
per night
CA $147 total
includes taxes & fees
My Way Guest House

The Avenue

The Avenue
Durham
Mobile Price CA $14 off
CA $126
per night
CA $126 total
includes taxes & fees
The Avenue

Bowburn Hall Hotel

Bowburn Hall Hotel
Durham
CA $18 off
CA $163
per night
CA $195 total
includes taxes & fees
Bowburn Hall Hotel

Check out pet-friendly hotels in Durham

Delta Hotels Durham Royal County

Delta Hotels Durham Royal County
Elvet
CA $127
CA $153 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 1 - Nov 2
Delta Hotels Durham Royal County

Ramside Hall Hotel, Golf and Spa

Ramside Hall Hotel, Golf and Spa
Durham
CA $184
CA $220 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 8 - Nov 9
Ramside Hall Hotel, Golf and Spa

Farnley Tower Guesthouse

Farnley Tower Guesthouse
Durham
CA $198
CA $238 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 11 - Oct 12
Farnley Tower Guesthouse

The Kingslodge Inn - The Inn Collection Group

The Kingslodge Inn - The Inn Collection Group
Durham
CA $187
CA $225 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 8 - Nov 9
The Kingslodge Inn - The Inn Collection Group

Super 8 by Wyndham Durham

Super 8 by Wyndham Durham
Durham
CA $60
CA $72 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 1 - Nov 2
Super 8 by Wyndham Durham

Honest Lawyer Hotel

Honest Lawyer Hotel
Durham
CA $85
CA $102 total
includes taxes & fees
Nov 8 - Nov 9
Honest Lawyer Hotel

My Way Guest House

My Way Guest House
Durham
CA $142
CA $142 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 18 - Oct 19
My Way Guest House

Durham City Cottages

Durham City Cottages
Durham
CA $141
CA $169 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 11 - Oct 12
Durham City Cottages

Orchard Cottage

Orchard Cottage
Durham
CA $1,131
CA $1,357 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 18 - Oct 19
Orchard Cottage

The Queens Head

The Queens Head
Gilesgate
CA $122
CA $122 total
includes taxes & fees
Oct 21 - Oct 22
The Queens Head
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
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Our prices for hotels in Durham are cheapest in January
Price trends for hotels in Durham
Pricing is based on two traveller single night rates
View properties in October
Typical weather for Durham
October
High 13°C / low 8°C. Cloudy most days.
View properties in October
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Monthly weather averages (˚C)

Top neighborhoods in Durham

Durham Town Center

The Durham Town Center neighborhood has lots to see including Gala Theatre Durham and Durham Indoor Market.

Pity Me

Pity Me offers a peaceful escape from Durham's city bustle with its charming residential streets and local pubs. This small village gives you an authentic slice of English suburban life, complete with friendly locals and well-kept gardens. The nearby Lambton Worm pub serves up hearty British meals and local ales after a day of exploring. Getting to Durham's attractions is a breeze with regular bus services making the 15-minute journey into the city centre. Accommodations here are budget-friendly B&Bs in converted family homes, offering cozy rooms and personal host interactions at prices much lower than downtown.

Brasside

Brasside feels like a secret hideaway just beyond the bustle of Durham city. This quiet residential suburb puts you close to nature with the Low Newton Reserve right there for peaceful walks through the woods. When you're ready to explore, Adventure Valley and historic Finchale Priory wait nearby while Durham Cathedral sits just a short drive away. Budget-friendly B&Bs in converted family homes make this area easy on your wallet. Most visitors grab a rental car for flexibility since bus service is limited. The local pub offers a taste of authentic British community life while Durham's varied dining scene is just 15 minutes away.

Top landmarks in Durham

A pitcher plant with a red rim and green leaves.
Photo by Mike Shorten

Durham University

9.0/10 (386 reviews)
If you'd like to get a taste of Durham student life, check out Durham University, located 0.9 mi (1.5 km) from central Durham. Our travelers also like this historical area for its riverfront setting.
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A historic castle, a calm lake, and surrounding trees.

Durham Cathedral

9.6/10 (652 reviews)
Durham Town Center is home to Durham Cathedral, so why not stop by during your stay in Durham. Our travelers also like this historical area for its riverfront setting.
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A historic stone building with a central tower, arched windows, and a cobblestone pathway leading to the entrance.
Photo by John Butler

Durham Castle

9.0/10 (364 reviews)
Durham Town Center is home to Durham Castle, so why not stop by during your stay in Durham. Our travelers also like this historical area for its riverfront setting.
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A nighttime scene with people walking on stairs, some holding umbrellas.
Photo by Mike Shorten

Gala Theatre Durham

7.6/10 (19 reviews)
If you want to see a show while you're in town, try and grab some tickets at Gala Theatre Durham in Durham Town Center. Our travelers also like this historical area for its riverfront setting. It's also full of great shops and restaurants, so you can spend the afternoon having a wander. If you want to experience more of the culture Durham has to offer, head to Durham Castle, Durham Cathedral, and Crook Hall and Gardens.
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Crook Hall and Gardens

8.0/10 (13 reviews)
Crook Hall and Gardens is 0.4 mi (0.6 km) from central Durham, why not stop by during your stay. Our travelers also like this historical area for its riverfront setting. Want to stretch your legs some more? Head to Palace Green and Durham Botanic Garden, both nearby.
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Brancepeth Castle Golf Club

8.0/10 (2 reviews)
You might want to practice your swing at Brancepeth Castle Golf Club, a golf course in the heart of Brancepeth. Why not take a stroll along the riverfront and watch the sunset while you're here? If Brancepeth Castle Golf Club doesn't quite scratch your golfing itch, Bishop Auckland Golf Club is also nearby.
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Durham Indoor Market

8.2/10 (68 reviews)
If you like strolling among the stalls, you might want to head out to Durham Indoor Market in Durham Town Center and take in the atmosphere. There are also lots of shops, restaurants, and bars in the area if you fancy a wander.
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Hall Hill Farm

8.8/10 (8 reviews)
It's feeding time at the zoo! If you want to be reminded of some of the great animals our world is home to, you might want to pay a trip to Hall Hill Farm, located 0.7 mi (1.1 km) from central Satley. If you have fun at Hall Hill Farm, you'll love Consett Leisure Centre and Jolly Drovers Maze, both located nearby.
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Learn more about Durham

Admired for its university life and cathedral, Durham features attractions such as Gala Theatre Durham and Crook Hall and Gardens. This welcoming city has something for everyone including its rich culture, restaurants, and sights like Adventure Valley and Diggerland.

See all hotels in Durham
A historic cathedral with a prominent tower, surrounded by lush greenery and set against a twilight sky.

Check out reviews of Durham hotels guests love

Village Hotel Newcastle

Village Hotel Newcastle

8/10 Good
"Room is spacious has good mattress. No air-con has fan, no fridge. Room is clean. Refilled complementary water and coffee pods every day. Breakfast is pretty much the same every day. I didn’t feel welcomed, staffs are present but can’t feel that they’re there. Massive pool and 3 jacuzzis, we only went once. Shower rooms have empty shower gel and shampoo bottles. A lot of people in and out of hotel mostly gym members if I’m not mistaken, would be nice if they have other entrance. Went there for our 15th wedding anniversary would be nice if the hotel put simple greeting card to make it special but yeah I guess it’s not the same for all the hotels."
Vanessa 4-night trip
Posted less than an hour ago
Village Hotel Newcastle
Maldron Hotel Newcastle

Maldron Hotel Newcastle

10/10 Excellent
"This hotel was the perfect location ,so central yet the noise level on a night was really good and managed to get a good sleep. Beds were comfortable,rooms were spacious and immaculate . Staff were helpful when we couldn’t check in online ."
Nicola 1-night trip
Posted 1 hour ago
Maldron Hotel Newcastle
Hotel Indigo Durham by IHG

Hotel Indigo Durham by IHG

8/10 Good
"The staff is absolutely 5 star! They go above and beyond and truly make you feel like a guest … they’re so helpful and kind ! My only con about this property is the lack of a traditional lobby with seating area etc, the cafe downstairs is dark and gloomy although the scones are delicious and the staff is super kind as well !"
Adrian 1-night trip
Posted 15 hours ago
Hotel Indigo Durham by IHG
Four Points Flex by Sheraton Newcastle

Four Points Flex by Sheraton Newcastle

8/10 Good
"mmmmmm mmmm mkkphhkkmjvkh kn"
John 3-night trip
Posted 1 day ago
Four Points Flex by Sheraton Newcastle
Honest Lawyer Hotel

Honest Lawyer Hotel

8/10 Good
"Good and reasonably priced Hotel with Great Food The check in was a quick and easy process. The room was a good size with a decent sized table to use my laptop on, good amount of power points, and with the decent speed free internet made it a very useful stop over. The shower and bathroom were good, but let down a bit by tatty worn painting work, along with the extractor fan not being hoovered out and quite dusty. The window opening and fascia above were tatty and quite dirty. Unfortunately the bed was squeaky when you moved, and wasn’t too comfortable. The food in the bar was very good, good portions, tasty and reasonably priced. The staff in the pub were friendly and efficient, and the service was quick, including bringing the food out to us. The room was quiet and had good views of woodland at the back, and was not affected by any light from the front of the Hotel car park. The parking right outside the rooms were great, peace of mind the car was visible and good lighting in the car park, making it a reassuring feeling parking the car. At the price point it was a reasonably priced stop over."
Stevan 1-night trip
Posted 3 days ago
Honest Lawyer Hotel
Ramside Hall Hotel, Golf and Spa

Ramside Hall Hotel, Golf and Spa

8/10 Good
"Such a lovely place even if a little dated"
Jeanette 1-night trip
Posted 3 days ago
Ramside Hall Hotel, Golf and Spa
Royal Station Hotel

Royal Station Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"Exactly as advertised convenient good value"
Julian 3-night trip
Posted 3 days ago
Royal Station Hotel
Delta Hotels Durham Royal County

Delta Hotels Durham Royal County

8/10 Good
"Great place to stay.Happy helpful staff. Clean and up to date room. Coffee the way I like it available in the lobby."
Allan 1-night trip
Posted 4 days ago
Delta Hotels Durham Royal County
Lumley Castle Hotel

Lumley Castle Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"Beautifully maintained Castle and grounds. Room was exceptional, makes you feel like a king or queen. Nice quiet bar to have a drink, great dining room and quality food. Great cooked to order English breakfast. Everything was great. It set a stand for us for the rest of our castle hotel search. I would stay here anytime. One suggestion though is to have soothing, calming music at breakfast, as background music, instead of 'hit parade'."
Willfried 1-night trip
Posted 4 days ago
Lumley Castle Hotel

Frequently asked questions

How much does a hotel room cost in Durham?
You can choose a great hotel in Durham from CA $72 with properties to suit all budgets and needs. To find an affordable hotel in Durham that meets all of your requirements, just apply filters on Hotels.com and sort hotels by "Price: low to high".
How can I find deals and earn rewards at Durham hotels?
Discover great deals on Durham hotel stays with Hotels.com. It's also a good idea to look at hotel prices mid-week or during the low season as you're likely to find off-peak deals. And make sure to check out our last-minute deals on Durham hotels.
Can I book Durham hotels with free cancellation?
In order to book a refundable Durham hotel, simply filter hotels by "Property cancellation options" and select "Fully refundable property". The majority of hotels offer free cancellation, so you can receive a refund if you need to cancel. Some hotels do require cancelling more than 24 hours before check-in, so double-check your booking beforehand.
What are some top pet-friendly hotels in Durham?
Our travelers' favorite pet-friendly hotels in Durham include:You can check "Pet friendly" on the Hotels.com "Amenities" filter in your search to find even more pet-friendly hotels in Durham.
What are some of the best hotels in Durham for couples?
Enjoy your couple's retreat with a stay at a top-rated Durham romantic hotel. Our travelers love Farnley Tower Guesthouse, a hotel with a garden-view restaurant and a bar/lounge. Another romantic hotel with top reviews is Delta Hotels Durham Royal County. This hotel offers an al fresco restaurant and a bar/lounge for a perfect stay. Use the "Traveler experience" filter in your search and select "Adults only" or "Romantic" to find even more hotels in Durham for couples on Hotels.com.
What are the top Durham hotels with a pool?
Discover some of the best Durham hotels with a pool for a little extra luxury on your trip. Radisson BLU Hotel Durham is a great hotel with an indoor pool and a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10. Plus, you can make the most of its hot tub and full-service spa. Ramside Hall Hotel, Golf and Spa is a popular hotel that features 2 outdoor pools and 3 indoor pools along with a children's pool and a full-service spa. To find more stays in Durham with a pool, use the "Amenities" filter on Hotels.com in your search and select "Pool".
What are some of the best Durham hotels with free parking?
If you're exploring by car, finding a great Durham hotel with free parking is a win. Our travelers' favorites include:
What are some popular hotels in central Durham?
If you're looking for hotels in central Durham, check out Delta Hotels Durham Royal County and Honest Lawyer Hotel. Travelers love Delta Hotels Durham Royal County for its location, as well as the restaurant, bar/lounge and 24-hour gym this hotel offers. Honest Lawyer Hotel is another popular central hotel with a restaurant, a bar/lounge and a terrace. When you stay at one of these central hotels, you'll be in easy reach of top sights including Durham University. Durham Town Center and Elvet are some of the most central neighborhoods for your Durham vacation.
Can I book refundable accommodations in Durham?
If you're looking for the flexibility to change your travel plans to Durham, most accommodations provide refundable* rates you can book. You can find these accommodations by searching our site and using the "fully refundable" filter to narrow down the results.
Where can I stay in Durham if I want a vacation home instead of a hotel?
If you want a good alternative to a hotel, browse our selection of 124 vacation homes. You can also consider one of the 76 apartments or 74 cottages.
What will the weather in Durham be like during my visit?
The warmest months in Durham are usually July and August with an average temp of 58°F. January and February are the chilliest months when the average temp is 40°F. The rainiest months are August and July.
Why should I book my Durham accommodation with Hotels.com?
There are plenty of reasons to book your Durham travel with us: our free cancellations on selected hotels gives you the flexibility you're looking for, and with One Key™, our rewards program, you will be able to earn and use OneKeyCash™* on all eligible bookings such as hotels, car rentals, flights, vacation rentals and more on Hotels.com, Expedia and Vrbo.

Find out more about Durham

Discover Durham: Where Historic Charm Meets Nature's Majesty

Discover the enchanting charm of Durham, England, a historic city that seamlessly blends academia and heritage. Home to the breathtaking Durham Cathedral and the majestic Durham Castle, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the city invites exploration of its cobblestone streets and stunning riverside views. Stroll through the picturesque Durham Botanic Garden or immerse yourself in the vibrant arts scene at local galleries. With a variety of cozy accommodations just minutes from the railway station, Durham is perfect for a romantic getaway or a cultural escape. Experience the rich tapestry of history and nature that makes Durham a hidden gem in the UK. For great hotel rates in Durham, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Discover great hotels near Durham

Durham offers a range of accommodations, from cozy B&Bs to modern hotels, catering to various preferences and budgets. Friendly hotels in the city often provide convenient amenities like on-site gyms and easy access to local attractions, making them ideal for both relaxation and exploration. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels near Durham:

  1. Plawsworth AparthotelOpens in a new window: This inviting 3.5-star hotel boasts an impressive guest rating of 9.8 out of 10, making it an exceptional choice for leisure travelers seeking a welcoming atmosphere. Enjoy a comfortable stay with well-appointed rooms and a vibrant bar experience featuring both local and Thai cuisine. The hotel fosters an inclusive environment, perfect for those seeking an LGBTQIA-friendly experience. With its attention to cleanliness and modern amenities, guests appreciate the friendly service and the inviting ambiance that enhances their stay.
  2. The Highfield HotelOpens in a new window: A cozy 3.0-star hotel with a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10, The Highfield Hotel is ideal for travelers seeking a charming and relaxed atmosphere. The hotel features spacious rooms and a delightful bar offering tasty meals, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring. Guests rave about the cleanliness and comfort of the accommodations, while the friendly and helpful staff ensure a pleasant stay. The delightful library bar and varied breakfast options make it a standout choice for a comfortable getaway.
  3. Lumley Castle HotelOpens in a new window: This distinguished 4.0-star hotel, with a commendable guest rating of 9.2 out of 10, offers a unique experience for travelers interested in history. Set in a national historic building, Lumley Castle Hotel combines luxurious accommodations with striking architectural design. Guests can enjoy a restful night in beautifully appointed rooms and experience delightful meals and drinks in the elegant library bar. The seamless check-in process and high-quality breakfast options enhance the overall experience, ensuring an unforgettable stay for leisure travelers.

Where to stay near Durham

Chester-le-Street, Bishop Auckland, and Stanley each offer unique experiences near Durham, England. Chester-le-Street boasts a rich historical charm with friendly locals and dining options. Bishop Auckland is perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers, featuring stunning parks and horseback riding. Stanley combines historical attractions with a relaxing atmosphere. For first-time visitors, Chester-le-Street is best suited for an engaging stay.

  1. Chester-le-StreetOpens in a new window: Chester-le-Street is a charming town that offers a delightful mix of history and hospitality. With its friendly atmosphere, it’s perfect for families and those seeking a welcoming community vibe. Notable attractions include the historic Lumley Castle and the beautiful local parks, ideal for leisurely strolls. The town also boasts a variety of dining options and cozy bars, making it a great place to unwind after a day of exploration. For those interested in literature, the town’s library is a hidden gem, providing a quiet spot to relax. Plus, its proximity to Durham city means you're never far from more urban adventures.
  2. Bishop AucklandOpens in a new window: Bishop Auckland is a fantastic destination for nature lovers and those wanting a peaceful retreat. Nestled in the countryside, it features stunning landscapes like the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and Hamsterley Forest, perfect for leisurely hikes or picnics. The historical Auckland Castle is a must-visit, offering insights into the area’s rich heritage. You can also enjoy horseback riding and relax at local coffee shops or spas. The friendly locals add to the charm, making it a great base for those looking to balance relaxation with outdoor activities.
  3. StanleyOpens in a new window: Stanley is a quaint town known for its friendly people and welcoming atmosphere. It’s rich in history and features several museums that highlight the area’s heritage, making it a delightful stop for culture enthusiasts. The surrounding countryside is perfect for peaceful walks, and you can enjoy a range of dining options and local beers. Golf enthusiasts will find several courses nearby to enjoy a round or two. Stanley offers a more relaxed pace, making it ideal for visitors who want to unwind while still having access to engaging activities.

Things to do in Durham

Durham enchants visitors with its stunning landscapes, from lush riverside parks to scenic walking trails. Enjoy leisurely boating along tranquil waterways, indulge in spa treatments for relaxation, or explore charming shops filled with local treasures. The rich history and vibrant community events add to its allure, making it a delightful getaway.

  • Beamish Open Air MuseumOpens in a new window – Step back in time at this historic village where you can wander through a recreated Edwardian town, explore a 1900s pit village, and ride on vintage trams. Each area showcases life in the past, making it a fun and educational experience for all ages.
  • Derwent ReservoirOpens in a new window – Visit this impressive dam surrounded by picturesque landscapes. Whether you're up for a leisurely walk along the water's edge or simply wish to soak in the natural beauty, Derwent Reservoir provides a peaceful escape perfect for enjoying a sunny day.
  • Whitworth Hall Country ParkOpens in a new window – Enjoy the serene atmosphere of this nature reserve, where you can stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens or have a picnic by the lake. It’s an ideal spot to connect with nature and appreciate the local wildlife.
  • North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural BeautyOpens in a new window – Discover the breathtaking scenery of rolling hills and rugged landscapes. This area invites you to hike, cycle, or simply take in the stunning views, providing a perfect backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
  • Angel of the NorthOpens in a new window – Marvel at this iconic piece of public art, known for its towering presence and striking silhouette against the sky. Take a moment to appreciate the craftsmanship and snap some memorable photos in front of this celebrated landmark.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Durham

  1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable time to visit Durham is during January, February, and December, when hotel prices are typically lower. For those on a budget, staying for at least 2 to 3 days allows you to fully immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture. You can explore notable landmarks such as the stunning cathedral, enjoy leisurely walks along the river, and take in the vibrant atmosphere created by friendly locals. With plenty of opportunities for shopping, dining, and experiencing the university's charm, a trip to Durham during these months offers great value for money. Plus, prices may drop further as you plan your visit, making it an even more budget-friendly option.
  2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute hotel deals in Durham, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted rates as your travel date approaches. By enabling email alerts or push notifications, you could stay informed about flash sales and exclusive last-minute promotions, helping you save on accommodations, even those with flexible cancellation fees. Additionally, the Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window tool available via the app allows travellers to compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you're among the first to know if prices drop or new rooms become available for your getaway.
  3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so having some flexibility with your travel dates could help you find a better deal for your stay in a Durham hotel. If you're interested in a unique experience, boutique hotels often provide a more personalised touch and may offer good value. When you book through Hotels.com, we’ll inform you if the rate for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price appears to be on the higher side, we may suggest alternative dates that could be more budget-friendly.
  4. Consider your location: Hotels near the city centre usually tend to be more expensive, but thanks to Durham's excellent public transportation, you might discover a more affordable independent hotel a bit further out that remains well connected. For those interested in exploring alternative, less crowded neighbourhoods or even lesser-known nearby cities, there is often great value for money to be found. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.

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 typically the wettest month. If you’re looking to soak up the lively atmosphere in Durham, June, July, and September are the peak months to visit, bustling with fellow travelers. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny to mostly cloudy, with light rainfall. However, if you prefer a more relaxed experience, May, November, and December are perfect for a quieter getaway, marked by light rainfall and mostly cloudy conditions.

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