A thriving university town with forest, beaches and a shopping centre

Durham is an enchanting city with a dense forest to the west, a dramatic coastline to the east and the River Wear running from the north past the town. There are so many interesting sights in this Norman city, that a short break might not be enough. Follow the footpath to the Durham Indoor Market; peruse the stalls for treasures or a keepsake. Dalton Park is a popular shopping outlet in the North of England; browse the stores and pick up a bargain. Durham is also home to Durham university, plus many museums and galleries; explore the Oriental Museum and Durham Heritage Centre. View an outstanding collection of European paintings, housed in The Bowes Museum, or tour the stately rooms of Whitworth Hall and discover the artefacts of Binchester Roman Fort. Hike through Hamsterley Forest, stroll the moors and dales of the North Pennines and take in sweeping views of Durham’s Heritage Coast.

Why Go?
Durham is a large city with a delightful landscape; beaches, cliffs, coastline and a vibrant city centre of high-street shopping and contemporary pubs and restaurants appeal to visitors. Durham’s market place is a picturesque point where local attractions, activities and sights can be accessed.

When to Go?
Durham has a temperate climate and four distinct seasons. Rainfall, as in the rest of the UK, can occur at any time so pack a brolly. Its coastal location means that the city is prone to high winds in the autumn months and temperatures dip to freezing in December and January. July and August are considered the best times to visit the city with bright sunshine and an average temperature of around 25°C.

How to Get There?
Durham is served by Durham Tees Valley Airport located 8km (5 miles) from the city centre. Direct flights are available throughout Europe including Bourgas, Amsterdam and Alicante. Domestic flight routes to Aberdeen, Dublin and Southampton run daily. A rail service to Durham is unreliable and infrequent. Instead a bus service operates outside the terminal building, taking passengers into the city centre.

Must See
Get to know the history of Durham and visit the five castles of the county- open daily. Guided walks of the grounds are available. Feast your eyes on the regal décor of Durham and Raby Castle, stroll through the manicured gardens at Bowes and Barnard Castle and visit Auckland Castle, home to the Bishop of Durham. At night take in a show at the Empire Theatre or The Lamplights Art Centre offering contemporary performances of dance and musical theatre.