Hotels in Durham

Durham: Where Academia Meets Majesty by the Riverside

Nestled along the meandering River Wear, Durham captivates visitors with its enchanting blend of history and academia. The city’s world-renowned Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle, both steeped in centuries of heritage, stand as timeless symbols of its illustrious past. Wander through the quaint streets of Durham City Centre, where the spirit of the university breathes life into charming cafes and boutique shops. This compact city is a treasure trove of cultural delights, offering an idyllic escape for history enthusiasts and romantics alike.

Discover great hotels near Durham

Durham offers a fine selection of hotels ranging from cosy bed and breakfasts to stylish boutique options. Expect friendly service and charming historical settings that reflect the city's rich heritage, making it a delightful base for exploring Durham. These are some of the hotels preferred by our travelers near Durham:

1. Plawsworth AparthotelOpens in a new window: This charming 3.5-star hotel offers a welcoming atmosphere for LGBTQIA travellers, boasting a remarkable guest rating of 9.8 out of 10. With a focus on comfort, it features clean and tidy rooms, friendly staff, and a vibrant bar area serving delightful meals, including Thai dishes. The hotel ensures a pleasant stay, perfect for those seeking a relaxed holiday experience with a touch of local flair.
2. The Highfield HotelOpens in a new window: A 3.0-star hotel with a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10, this property caters to business travellers with its spacious rooms and convenient amenities. Guests appreciate the cleanliness of the facilities and the friendly staff. The on-site bar provides a cosy atmosphere for unwinding after a day of work, and the hotel’s location allows for easy access to local attractions, making it a comfortable choice for those on business trips.
3. Lumley Castle HotelOpens in a new window: This exquisite 4.0-star hotel, situated in a national historic building, has a guest rating of 9.2 out of 10. Ideal for leisure travellers seeking a unique historic experience, it features elegant rooms, a library bar offering a delightful dining experience, and a variety of breakfast options. The friendly staff ensures a memorable stay, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the charm and character of the hotel while enjoying high-quality service.

Where to stay near Durham

Chester-le-Street, Seaham, and Hetton are excellent options for staying near Durham. Chester-le-Street offers a rich historical atmosphere, friendly locals, and dining options, making it great for families and adventurers. Seaham features luxurious spas, beautiful gardens, and romantic settings, perfect for relaxation. However, for first-time visitors, Chester-le-Street is best suited due to its diverse attractions and welcoming vibe.

1. Chester-le-StreetOpens in a new window: Chester-le-Street is a charming town steeped in history, making it a fantastic base for exploring the region. Its friendly atmosphere is perfect for families and business travellers alike. You can visit the stunning Finchale Priory to soak in the historical ambiance or enjoy the lively atmosphere at Pelaw Grange Greyhound Stadium. For a unique experience, Beamish Open Air Museum showcases life in the past with interactive exhibits. If you’re after some adventure, check out Beamish Wild and Croft Circuit, both offering fun outdoor activities. This town strikes a balance of historical significance and modern conveniences, making it an ideal spot for your stay.
2. SeahamOpens in a new window: Seaham is a picturesque coastal town that offers a relaxing escape with its stunning beaches and serene gardens. It's a great choice for couples looking for a romantic getaway or anyone wanting to unwind. The beautiful Blast Beach is perfect for leisurely strolls, while the nearby Durham Cathedral and Castle provide a beautiful backdrop for exploring the region's rich heritage. For those seeking a touch of luxury, the local spa facilities offer pampering experiences. Don’t forget to enjoy a cup of coffee at one of the charming cafés while soaking in the stunning seaside views. Seaham truly combines relaxation with scenic beauty.
3. HettonOpens in a new window: Hetton is a quaint, lesser-known gem that offers a peaceful retreat away from the busier tourist areas. Known for its friendly community, it’s an excellent spot for those looking to experience local life. While smaller, it features lovely parks and green spaces perfect for a leisurely walk or picnic. The area is also close to some larger attractions in the region, making it convenient for day trips. Hetton's charm lies in its simplicity and the welcoming vibe of its locals, making it a lovely place to stay if you prefer a quieter experience.

Things to do near Durham

Durham offers a mix of academic charm and historic splendour, highlighted by its iconic cathedral and castle. Enjoy leisurely walks along the river, relaxing spa sessions, and quaint shopping while exploring surrounding parks, forests, and gentle hills.

• Durham Indoor MarketOpens in a new window – Discover a vibrant historic place bustling with local vendors. You can browse a variety of stalls offering fresh produce, handmade crafts, and unique food items. It’s a delightful spot to experience local life and perhaps pick up some souvenirs.
• Durham CastleOpens in a new window – Step into history at this impressive castle, which stands as a testament to Norman architecture. Explore its grand halls and learn about its role in the university and the region’s past. The views of the surrounding landscape are equally captivating.
• Newcastle-upon-Tyne Arts CentreOpens in a new window – Visit this arts hub to appreciate a range of creative exhibitions and performances. The centre showcases works from local artists and hosts various events, making it a great place to engage with the thriving arts scene.
• BALTIC Centre for Contemporary ArtOpens in a new window – Make your way to this renowned gallery situated on the Gateshead QuaysideOpens in a new window. Here, you can explore innovative contemporary art installations and exhibitions, often featuring thought-provoking pieces that challenge traditional perceptions.
• Quayside – Stroll along the picturesque Quayside, where the river meets a lively atmosphere. Enjoy the scenic views, grab a bite at one of the many eateries, or simply relax by the water. The area is perfect for enjoying a leisurely walk, especially as the sun sets over the bridges.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Durham

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Durham is in January, February, and December, when hotel prices are generally lower. To fully appreciate the city's historical landmarks, cultural sites, and natural beauty, a stay of at least 2 to 3 days is recommended. During this time, visitors can explore the stunning cathedral, enjoy leisurely walks along the river, and experience the vibrant local culture, all while benefiting from great value for money. With the right timing, hotel prices may drop, making it an ideal opportunity for those looking to enjoy Durham on a budget.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: Discover discounted rates to Durham with Hotels.com by exploring the DealsOpens in a new window section, where you may uncover attractive hotel options. If you’re planning a spontaneous trip, head to the Last-Minute Deals area, as you could find reduced rates on hotels near your travel date. Stay informed through email alerts or push notifications, so if prices drop or rooms become available, you’re among the first to know. Additionally, the Smart Shopping tool on the app allows travellers to compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you’re more likely to spot a great hotel deal.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may vary depending on factors such as the hotel's location, star rating, and time of year, so being flexible with your dates might help you save on your stay at a hotel in Durham. For those seeking a distinctive experience, boutique hotels can offer a more personalised stay and occasionally better value. When you book with Hotels.com, we will inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average, and if it is on the higher side, we may suggest more affordable dates to assist you in potentially finding a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels situated near the city centre usually tend to be more expensive, but thanks to Durham's excellent public transport connections, you may discover a more affordable independent hotel a bit further out that remains well linked. For those keen to explore alternative, less crowded neighbourhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there is often great value for money to be found. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more genuine 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 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, accompanied by 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.