Pity Me offers a peaceful retreat just outside Durham city. This affordable residential village provides an authentic glimpse into everyday British suburban life. Regular bus services connect you to Durham's historic attractions within 20 minutes. Enjoy the quiet streets lined with red brick homes and well-kept gardens. The village has a few local pubs serving traditional British fare and ales. While Pity Me itself has limited amenities, it serves as an excellent base for exploring nearby highlights like Durham Cathedral and Lumley Castle. The countryside setting provides clean air and tranquil evenings away from tourist crowds.
Brasside offers peaceful suburban living just outside the bustling centre of Durham. This quiet residential area borders Low Newton Nature Reserve, giving visitors easy access to countryside walks and natural beauty. The area provides a genuine glimpse into everyday British life away from tourist crowds. Adventure Valley and Finchale Priory make excellent day trips from this budget-friendly base. Most travellers appreciate having a car to explore Durham's cathedral and castle. The local pub provides a taste of authentic community life where you can chat with friendly residents.
Discover the most popular places to visit in Durham
Photo by Mike Shorten
Open Photo by Mike Shorten
Durham University
9.0/10 (386 reviews)
Explore a UNESCO World Heritage Site where medieval Durham Castle meets academic excellence. Wander through historic quads and experience centuries of scholarly tradition in this remarkable setting.
Durham Cathedral
9.6/10 (652 reviews)
This Norman masterpiece showcases breathtaking vaulted ceilings and houses the relics of St. Cuthbert. Climb the central tower for panoramic countryside views or attend one of the cathedral's atmospheric concerts.
Photo by Mike Shorten
Open Photo by Mike Shorten
Durham Castle
9.0/10 (364 reviews)
This Norman fortress from 1072 now houses part of Durham University while preserving its medieval grandeur. Take a guided tour to discover the Great Hall, Norman Chapel, and historic Black Staircase.
Photo by Mike Shorten
Open Photo by Mike Shorten
Gala Theatre Durham
7.6/10 (19 reviews)
The Gala Theatre features a 510-seat auditorium with perfect sightlines for theatre, comedy, and film in Durham's heart. Book ahead for the annual Christmas pantomime, a quintessential British cultural experience.
Crook Hall and Gardens
8.0/10 (13 reviews)
This 13th-century medieval hall showcases a tapestry of themed gardens, from Shakespeare to Secret Walled spaces. Wander through colourful blooms with Durham Cathedral views before enjoying a traditional cream tea.
Palace Green
8.6/10 (29 reviews)
Explore the great outdoors at Palace Green, a lovely green space in Durham. Stroll along the riverfront or visit the stunning cathedral in this culturally rich area.
Palace Green Library
Find out about the history of Durham when you take a trip to Palace Green Library. Visit the stunning cathedral and top-notch restaurants in this family-friendly area.
Durham Heritage Centre and Museum
8.0/10 (1 review)
You can study the exhibits at Durham Heritage Centre and Museum, a museum with a storied past, during your trip to Durham. Stroll along the riverfront in this culturally rich area or visit its top-notch restaurants.
What to do in Durham
Guided Walking Tour of Durham & its Infamous Characters
"We had an excellent stay, on entry the reception where having trouble with their Internet connection. We received a room upgrade for the inconvenience."
"An extremely great night stay. The staff were so helpful and friendly. The room was very clean and spacious. Would highly recommend for a stay and would certainly use again when passing Durham again."
"Our room had everything we needed. The bed was very comfortable & shower hot & powerfull. We ate on two nights - the food was very good & service quick. The only thing we didn't like was the peas which we both left. Breakfast was also very good with plenty of choice. We had eggs florentine & the full cooked breakfast. The breakfast manager was very friendly & very good at his job. We wouldn't hesitate to book again & will hopefully return someday soon. Extremely handy having the bus stop right...
"What a beautiful inn. It’s quiet and the staff are all very friendly. I stayed there one night and chose it because of its proximity to Kynren. It was about a 15 minute drive from their car park. So convenient! Especially when you’re getting out of the show at 11 o’clock at night. Their breakfast in the morning had lots of options, both hot and cold. I wish I could’ve stayed longer in the area."
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.
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.
You can pick up a holiday package to this popular destination on Expedia. However, how much your holiday to Durham costs will depend on factors like your hotel choice, season and length of stay.
What are the cheapest months to go to Durham?
If you're hoping to score a cheap Durham holiday package, consider visiting in February, November and December. You'll typically find lower prices on airfares and hotels during these months — perfect for travellers wishing to save money.
How many days is enough for Durham?
Durham holidays come in all shapes and sizes, but to really get a feel for this place, we think 2 days is a good ballpark. In this timeframe, you can visit headline attractions like Diggerland and Gala Theatre Durham and seek out some lesser-known spots. Don't skip cool neighbourhoods such as Carrville and Broompark either. If you're smart with your time, you can even schedule a day trip from Durham too.
Is it worth booking a holiday package to Durham?
Whether you'd like to explore top sights like Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle on your Durham holiday, or coming for its excellent nature, views and walking trails, there's something for everyone here. With so much to experience, you'll soon discover why so many travellers think Durham is a good holiday destination.
How to find the best Durham package deals?
Use Expedia's filters to find some tempting Durham package deals. When you start your search, just set your maximum budget and then sort the results by "Price: low to high." If you're looking to save, plan your adventure for midweek, or browse for Durham package deals in the off-peak season. Play around with your travel dates and you may score even better discounts. As a rule of thumb, it's usually best to lock in your holiday package well in advance.
Is it cheaper to book a Durham holiday as a package?
An Expedia holiday package could save you hundreds of dollars when compared to booking accommodation and flights separately. Better still, you can tailor your Durham trip to match your exact needs. Pick your preferred flight time, select the hotel type and add a car rental. Browse our great deals to see how much you can save.
When to book a holiday package to Durham?
Secure incredible discounts by reserving your flights ahead of time with Expedia. If spontaneity is more your style, take advantage of our last-minute deals for an impromptu Durham adventure.
How to plan a trip to Durham?
Pick your travel dates: What you'd like to do in Durham and your preferred season can help you decide when to travel.
Budget wisely: In addition to the cost of your stay, you should factor in other expenses. These include food, flights and transportation. Also, put aside some extra funds for unexpected expenses that may arise during your trip to Durham.
Decide your trip length: Consider how long you'd like to spend discovering Durham. Plan your itinerary so you can get to all the activities and attractions you're interested in without rushing.
Bundle your airfare and accommodation: After you've settled on your dates and duration, lock in the right Durham holiday package for you.
Durham offers a delightful mix of outdoor adventures and scenic beauty, making it an ideal destination for short breaks. Visitors can enjoy picturesque riverside walks and leisurely strolls along various walking trails, while also exploring the area's educational and recreational attractions, as well as indulging in relaxing spa experiences. Whether you're seeking adventure or a tranquil escape, Durham has something for everyone.
Shopping
For a delightful shopping experience in Durham, visit Newgate Shopping Centre, just 14.5km away, offering a bustling atmosphere. If you're up for a drive, the Metrocentre is 20.9km from Durham, featuring a wide range of shops and entertainment options, perfect for a family outing.
Recreation
The Gala Theatre Durham offers an enriching cultural experience with captivating performances, perfect for an entertaining evening. For relaxation, visit Spennymoor Leisure Centre, where you can unwind with various wellness activities. If you enjoy the outdoors, South Moor Golf Club provides a scenic setting for a round of golf.
Adventure
Diggerland offers an exciting experience where you can operate real diggers and construction machinery, perfect for all ages. For a thrilling race, head to Karting North East, located 12.9km from Durham, where you can enjoy high-speed karting on a professional track. Battlezone, 4.8km away, provides a family-friendly arcade experience filled with fun games.
Nightlife
Durham's nightlife is vibrant and inviting. Start your evening at the popular Klute for a lively club experience, then enjoy a relaxed drink at The Dun Cow, known for its charming atmosphere. For a unique twist, visit The Cellar Door, famous for its live music and cosy vibe.
Find the best attractions in and around Durham
Durham, in England, is a charming destination perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and culture seekers alike. Visitors can explore iconic attractions such as Durham Castle, the magnificent Durham Cathedral, and the picturesque city itself. With its blend of urban parks and historic university settings, Durham offers a variety of experiences for families and adventurers, making it an ideal spot for a memorable holiday.
Beamish Open Air Museum: Experience life in a 19th-century town at Beamish Open Air Museum, where you can stroll through a historic village, interact with costumed staff, and enjoy authentic period shops and transport. This immersive journey into the past is just 12.9km from Durham.
Palace Green: Nestled within Durham, Palace Green is a serene urban park perfect for families. Enjoy leisurely walks, picnics, and stunning views of the historic cathedral and castle, all while soaking in the vibrant city atmosphere.
Angel of the North: Standing 20 metres tall, the Angel of the North is a striking piece of public art located 14.5km from Durham. Marvel at this iconic sculpture, which embodies the region's rich cultural heritage and artistic spirit.
Best time to go to Durham
The best time to visit Durham is dependent 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.
Tips to save on your trip to Durham
Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
Consider traveling to Durham during the low season (January to March) for more affordable options.
Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.