North East · England
Top 10 places in Durham
Ranked from Google ratings and review counts, not VacationGuide reviews. Sights and landmarks are weighted above restaurants and stays so the list shows you what makes Durham worth visiting.
- 1Attraction
Durham Cathedral
Photo from Google Maps · Michelle Slater
Google rating 4.8(12,459 Google reviews)
Dating back roughly 900 years, this UNESCO-listed Norman Church of England cathedral serves as the seat of the Bishop of Durham. Inside, visitors can discover St Cuthbert's shrine and a treasury museum, as well as take in expansive countryside views from the top of the tower. General admission to the historic building is free, though separate charges apply for the museum, guided tours, and tower climbs.
Durham DH1 3EH, UK
Official website - 2Attraction
Durham Heritage Coast
Photo from Google Maps · John Bailes
Google rating 4.7(3,193 Google reviews)
Situated around Seaham in County Durham, this designated historic shoreline features dramatic cliffs, dunes, and walking paths that follow the rugged coast. Visitors can stroll along cliff-top trails, spend time at sandy bays, or search for sea glass along the pebble beaches and local marina. With benches positioned along the routes, it offers a scenic and tranquil setting to admire the open sea views at any time of year.
Seaham SR7, UK
Official website - 3Restaurant
Turtle Bay Durham
Photo from Google Maps · Turtle Bay Durham
Google rating 4.9(5,421 Google reviews)
Turtle Bay Durham is a Caribbean restaurant and bar located in the heart of Durham, situated at The Riverwalk by Framwellgate Bridge with views overlooking the River Wear. It offers a vibrant atmosphere where visitors can enjoy bold, fresh dishes inspired by the islands, alongside rum and cocktails.
Unit R07 The Riverwalk, Durham DH1 4SL, UK
Official website - 4Attraction
Durham Castle
Photo from Google Maps · Kathrin W.
Google rating 4.6(2,163 Google reviews)
Commissioned in 1072 on the orders of William the Conqueror, this striking eleventh-century fortress served as a stronghold for the historic Prince-Bishops of Durham. Today, the ancient site functions as a university college that also operates as a bed and breakfast, offering seasonal rooms alongside two plush suites.
Durham DH1 3RW, UK
Official website - 5Attraction
Adventure Valley
Photo from Google Maps · Adventure Valley
Google rating 4.4(2,086 Google reviews)
Situated at Union Hall Farm in Durham, Adventure Valley is a family attraction offering extensive indoor and outdoor play zones for children. Guests can encounter farm animals, tackle a round of crazy golf, take a spin at the roller disco, or explore various play frames. The site also caters to day-trippers with both an indoor café and designated picnic spots.
Union Hall Farm, Durham DH1 5SG, UK
Official website - 6Café
Raby Castle
Photo from Google Maps · Pauline Brighton
Google rating 4.6(4,143 Google reviews)
Set within a scenic 200-acre deer park in Staindrop, Raby Castle is an imposing 14th-century fortress featuring grand stone towers, a moat, and interiors filled with art treasures and tapestries. The beautifully tended grounds encompass walled gardens, a maze, and an adventure playground complete with boats and a narrow-gauge railway. Guests can also browse the on-site shop or pause for refreshments at the well-staffed café and restaurant.
Staindrop, Darlington DL2 3AH, UK
Official website - 7Restaurant
Ramside Hall Hotel
Photo from Google Maps · Ramside Hall Hotel
Google rating 4.3(3,461 Google reviews)
Set in Carrville, Durham, Ramside Hall Hotel is an imposing grand house featuring plush guest accommodation alongside two championship golf courses. The property offers varied dining options, including a dedicated steakhouse and grill, in addition to extensive spa and leisure facilities.
Ramside Hall, Carrville, Durham DH1 1TD, UK
Official website - 8Restaurant
Hotel Indigo Durham by IHG
Photo from Google Maps · Hotel Indigo Durham by IHG
Google rating 4.6(1,334 Google reviews)
Hotel Indigo Durham is an upmarket boutique hotel housed within a grand 19th-century former university building. It offers individually designed rooms, some with cathedral views, and features an on-site restaurant and a bar. Located moments from the historic city centre, it provides convenient access to Durham's notable attractions.
9 Old Elvet, Durham DH1 3HL, UK
Official website - 9Restaurant
Zen
Photo from Google Maps · L H
Google rating 4.5(1,565 Google reviews)
Zen is a contemporary Thai and Pan-Asian restaurant and bar located in Durham, offering a unique dining experience. Guests can enjoy a heated 'urban jungle' area, complete with palms, for a distinctive atmosphere. This popular spot is known for its central location, making it a convenient choice for various occasions.
Court Ln, Durham DH1 3JS, UK
Official website - 10Café
National Trust - Crook Hall Gardens
Photo from Google Maps · Ian Knox
Google rating 4.6(1,721 Google reviews)
Nestled on the edge of Durham city, Crook Hall Gardens features a Grade I listed medieval hall dating back to the 13th century. Visitors can explore a series of picturesque English-style gardens, including colourful borders and a maze, set against this historic backdrop. The site also offers a cafe, with admission to it being free.
Frankland Ln, Sidegate, Durham DH1 5SZ, UK
Official website