You’re going to Durham: Here’s the ultimate guide to Durham City

So, you got into Durham. Congratulations! Small, historic, and full of more charm (and hills) than you might expect, Durham is a lovely city with loads going on despite its size. Whether you’re here for the first time or just finding your feet, this guide covers the essentials: where to eat, drink, walk, and explore during your first weeks in the city.

The basics:

The Castle: Your first proper “I’m in Durham” moment will probably be when you spot Durham Castle looming above Palace Green. Located in the centre of the city, the castle is both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to some of Durham’s luckiest students.

The Cathedral: The Cathedral is the jewel in Durham’s skyline. You can see it from pretty much anywhere, and it’s as beautiful inside as out. This is where matriculation will take place so you will definitely see it in your time at Durham.

Restaurants:

Rudy’s: Proper Neapolitan pizza with a chewy, bubbly crust. Rudy’s is literally always a hit – and it’s the perfect place for a dinner with friends in Fresher’s week.

The Rabbit Hole: Undoubtedly one of the best restaurants in Durham. This spot, with some of the best Cantonese food around, is the perfect place to go for a special event or occasion. While it’s a little on the pricier side, we would definitely recommend this for a meal out with parents when you arrive…

Zen: Same goes for Zen as for The Rabbit Hole. Zen serves divine Thai dishes in their beautiful (very Instagrammable) restaurant. Plus, their cocktails are sublime.

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Tango: I’m starting to realise a pattern here and that is that all three of these restaurants are part of the Zen Group. Safe to say I am a fan! Tango is definitely a more casual option – they serve incredible burgers and are located centrally in the city.

La Spaghettata: La Spaghettata, or Spags, is a Durham essential. You will find everyone and their mum in Spags – it’s affordable, popular, and centrally located. The perfect place for a friend (or romantic…) date.

Nando’s: Durham has a Nando’s. Hooray! This is a reliable, recognisable spot for some of your first meals out. This one never disappoints…

Little Sicily: This is a pretty underrated spot. It’s near the Travelodge, so it’s a convenient option for when you are moving in. Affordable and atmospheric, Little Sicily is a lovely place with the loveliest staff. They even have live music some of the time!

Bars:

Wetherspoons – The Bishops’ Mill: What can I say? Spoons is just the best. Cheap and cheerful, Durham Spoons is lively, central, and reliable. Perfect place for pres, a single pint, or even lunch.

College bars: Every college has their own bar, and it’s only responsible that you go to them all at some point during your time at Durham. What’s not to love about cheap pints, quiz nights, and your best bet for an impromptu social?

The Curious Mr Fox: Another underrated place. The drinks are brilliant and the building is beautifully furnished. Immaculate vibes to be honest.

The Library: Not to be confused with the actual library. This one serves drinks, not books. This bar is a Durham staple – and they have some really good student deals!

The Drunken Duck: Chill, fun, affordable, convenient to get to. Extremely lively on a Saturday night. And they have frozen cocktails, which is always such a bonus.

The Three Bridges: Located near North Road (perhaps not a positive), this is a great pub with good student deals and loads going on, with regular live music and pub quizzes. Essentially, just a great place to go for drinks – and not usually too crowded either as it’s really spacious.

MIXOLOGY: This bar is so under-hyped. The drinks are so, so, so good and it’s affordable too. Immaculate vibes. Great place to go before the club.

Cafes:

Pawsome: Durham’s cat café. Coffee plus cuddly cats. Why wouldn’t you love that? Such an underrated spot and the perfect place to go when you’re missing your pets from home.

Vennels: Historic tea room tucked down an alley, with great cake and an even better courtyard. Whilst unassuming from the outside, Vennels have an amazing food menu and the vibes are the best.

Flat White: Insta-famous and always buzzing. Some people swear by it, others swear at the queue. Iconic either way.

Cafédral: Cute café right next to the cathedral, great for a post-sightseeing coffee. And their hot chocolate is literally award-winning. You can’t argue with an award.

Chapters: Lovely cakes and coffee. Chapters is right in the centre of town, so is great for coffee dates and small socials – or people-watching if you’re not feeling as social.

Treats: A student staple for affordable lunches and sweet bakes. Treats also has the most gorgeous interior – and it’s so well priced. Smash.

Activities:

Paint and sips: Get artsy with a glass of wine in hand. Idyllic. Lots of societies host paint and sips so there will definitely be many to attend throughout the year. Though you could also host your own at home or by the river with home-mixed drinks!

Bar crawls: Self-explanatory. Durham is small, so you can do a “college bar crawl” without even changing postcode. Plus, it’s educational because you’re exploring the local area…

Lane7: Durham’s go-to spot for bowling, darts, beer pong, and casual nights out with friends. Perfect for a relaxed evening when you want something fun but low-key. Plus, it’s really close to Spoons.

Rent a rowing boat: Test your coordination (and your friendships) – and your arms, to be honest.

Museums: The Oriental Museum is a hidden gem.

Picnics: Palace Green, the Racecourse, and Observatory Hill are unbeatable spots in summer. Plus, it’s such a cute activity to do with your friends anytime the weather is suitable.

Walks:

Racecourse: One of the most scenic parts of Durham, this area is by old Hild Bede and boasts beautiful views of the river and gorgeous green space.

Along the whole river: Durham’s riverbanks are endlessly walkable, with gorgeous views at every turn. Walking around here is a really relaxing (and free) activity.

Observatory Hill: The best sunset view in the city. Perfect place for late night drinks / activities.

The Botanical Gardens: Lovely all year round, but especially in spring.

Nearby(ish) places to visit:

Newcastle: Bigger city energy, nightlife, and shopping. And it’s less than 15 minutes away by train. Perfect place to visit if you’re missing the goats like Wagamama and Primark.

Edinburgh: A longer trip but perfect for a whole day out. There are some benefits to practically being in Scotland after all.

Whether it’s a quick coffee, a night out, or a quiet walk by the river, Durham has plenty of ways to fill your time here. You’ll soon find the places that feel like yours!