Hotels in Durham

Discover Durham: Where Academia, Heritage and the River Converge

Nestled in the heart of County Durham, the enchanting city of Durham is a cultural haven, renowned for its stunning medieval architecture and vibrant university atmosphere. Dominating the skyline is the magnificent Durham Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, alongside the historic Durham Castle, both reflecting the city’s rich heritage. Stroll along the scenic banks of the River Wear, where picturesque views and lush greenery create a tranquil escape. With its charming cobbled streets, delightful cafés, and a thriving arts scene, Durham invites travellers to immerse themselves in its unique blend of history and contemporary charm.

Discover great hotels near Durham

Durham offers a variety of friendly hotel accommodations, ranging from quaint guesthouses to modern hotels. Many establishments provide comfortable amenities, local charm, and easy access to the historic city centre. Enjoy warm hospitality while exploring the stunning architecture and rich heritage that Durham has to offer. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels near Durham:

1. Plawsworth AparthotelOpens in a new window: This charming 3.5-star hotel boasts a remarkable guest rating of 9.8, making it a top choice for leisure travellers seeking a welcoming and inclusive environment. Guests can indulge in a delightful stay featuring a cozy bar that offers an array of meals, including enticing Thai dishes. The property prides itself on its immaculate cleanliness and spacious accommodations, ensuring a comfortable retreat. The attentive staff contribute to a warm atmosphere, making this hotel a fantastic option for those looking to relax and unwind.
2. The Highfield HotelOpens in a new window: A functional 3.0-star hotel with a guest rating of 8.8, this property is ideal for business travellers. It features clean, spacious rooms equipped with essential amenities, including free WiFi and a decent television. Guests appreciate the quality of the on-site dining options, which are both friendly and affordable. With easy access to local attractions and a welcoming atmosphere, this hotel provides a reliable base for productive stays in Durham.
3. Lumley Castle HotelOpens in a new window: This elegant 4.0-star hotel achieves a superb guest rating of 9.2 and is perfect for those seeking a historic-themed experience. Nestled within a national historic building, it offers luxurious accommodations that blend charm and comfort. Guests can enjoy a delightful library bar, featuring a varied menu of meals and drinks, alongside a hearty breakfast with both continental options and hot dishes. With an emphasis on quality service and a captivating atmosphere, this hotel is an exceptional choice for leisure travellers wanting to immerse themselves in Durham's rich history.

Where to stay near Durham

Chester-le-Street, Bishop Auckland, and Stanley are excellent areas to stay when visiting Durham, England. Chester-le-Street offers a rich historical backdrop and family-friendly dining options. Bishop Auckland provides beautiful countryside and adventure opportunities, while Stanley boasts charming museums and relaxing pubs. For first-time visitors, Bishop Auckland’s scenic beauty and budget-friendly options make it the ideal choice.

1. Chester-le-StreetOpens in a new window: This charming town combines a rich historical vibe with a friendly community atmosphere. It’s a great spot for those who appreciate castles and a family-friendly environment. You can explore must-see places like Finchale Priory and Beamish Open Air Museum, both offering a unique glimpse into local history. The town’s dining scene and cosy bars add an inviting touch for visitors, especially if you’re travelling for business or leisure. A visit to Pelaw Grange Greyhound Stadium offers an extra dash of excitement, making Chester-le-Street a well-rounded destination.
2. Bishop AucklandOpens in a new window: Nestled in the countryside, Bishop Auckland boasts a relaxed, friendly ambience ideal for travellers on a budget. It offers a mix of natural and historical attractions, including the picturesque North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the impressive Auckland Castle. For those looking to enjoy the outdoors, Hamsterley Forest provides a lovely backdrop for a countryside escape. With its cosy coffee spots and spa options, Bishop Auckland perfectly blends relaxation with local charm.
3. StanleyOpens in a new window: Stanley is a delightful choice for those seeking a balanced mix of history and relaxation. The town is known for its historical allure and friendly locals, making it ideal if you’re interested in exploring local museums and enjoying a quiet countryside retreat. Its inviting dining scene, complemented by local bars and a welcoming atmosphere, ensures you’ll have a pleasant stay. Stanley’s friendly vibe and intriguing historical roots make it a memorable place to visit.

Things to do in Durham

Durham’s scenic charm blends a storied university and majestic cathedral with lush parks and meandering riverfronts. Enjoy leisurely walks, boutique shopping, and rejuvenating spas in a locale where history meets natural beauty, making it a delightful destination for all.

• Beamish Open Air MuseumOpens in a new window – Step into the past at the Beamish Open Air Museum, a historic village that brings local history to life. Wander through authentic streets and explore traditional crafts and architecture that reflect the region’s heritage. Alongside its rich history, the museum’s proximity to the university, cathedral, and river offers a unique combination of culture and natural beauty that sets it apart.
• Derwent ReservoirOpens in a new window – Discover the serene beauty of Derwent Reservoir, a dam that provides a tranquil escape into nature. Enjoy a leisurely walk along its banks or simply take in the calming views of the water and surrounding landscapes. Its location near the university, cathedral, and river adds an interesting layer of cultural context to your visit.
• Whitworth Hall Country ParkOpens in a new window – Explore Whitworth Hall Country Park, a reserve preserve that offers plenty of space for outdoor activities and quiet reflection. The park’s blend of natural scenery with nearby attractions such as the university, cathedral, and river enriches your experience with a touch of regional charm.
• North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural BeautyOpens in a new window – Take in the expansive vistas at the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, a reserve preserve that invites you to enjoy the rugged outdoors. Its proximity to the university, cathedral, and river provides a delightful contrast between natural splendour and historical landmarks.
• Angel of the NorthOpens in a new window – Marvel at the iconic Angel of the North, a striking piece of public art that stands as a modern symbol in the region. The impressive structure, set against a backdrop of the university, cathedral, and river, offers a contemporary counterpoint to the historic and natural sites nearby.

4 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Durham

1. Book for the cheapest times: Visiting Durham in January, February, or December is a wise choice for those travelling on a budget, as hotels typically offer lower prices during these months. A stay of at least 2 to 3 days is recommended to explore the city's rich landmarks and cultural heritage, including its historical sites, friendly people, spa, dining options, university, cathedral, and vibrant culture. Strolling along the river, enjoying a leisurely walk, and indulging in shopping are also excellent ways to experience the affordable charm and great value for money that Durham provides.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals to Durham, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute Deals section on Hotels.com, where you may find reduced rates on hotels as your travel date approaches. To stay updated on flash sales and special promotions, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com. This way, you'll be informed about opportunities to save on your ideal accommodation. Additionally, utilise the Smart Shopping feature within the app to compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you're well-informed when booking your last-minute getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may differ due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and time of year, so being flexible with your dates could help you save on your stay at a Durham hotel. For those in search of distinctive accommodations, boutique hotels might offer a more personalised experience and occasionally better value. When you book with Hotels.com, we'll inform you if the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average; if it appears to be on the higher side, we may suggest more affordable dates to assist you in finding a potential 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 links, you may discover a more affordable independent hotel a bit further out that still offers good connectivity. 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 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 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.