How to ‘do’ Durham: The complete guide to everywhere you have to go in the city

If you’re wondering where the best bars, charity shops, nail salons, supermarkets are, this one’s for you.

2 weeks ago

From bars to charity shops, you’re likely about to navigate a whole new city, so here’s exactly where to go for everything that you may need in your time at Durham. It’s a small city so it is easy to get around, but it never hurts to know a bit more about the city you call home for three years. Durham is likely a completely new city for you, so consider this your guide on where to go for the best of everything. There are some hidden gems around the city!

The best non-college bars

Mixology – This bar on Elvet Bridge has good cocktail deals on weekdays and is nice and near Jimmy Allen’s and Osbournes. The bartenders and owners are friendly and fun so you may find yourself granted even more of a bargain.
The Swan – Also occupying the great location of Elvet Bridge, nothing beats the vibes of a busy night at the Swan. The outside seating area is a plus when the sun decides to make a rare appearance.
The Library – Tucked away on the Bailey, near the cathedral, the lively Library is not to be confused with the Billy B. Some great pints and weekday deals attracts lots of students, and it’s near your accommodation if you’re in a Bailey college.

Charity shops

British Heart Foundation – A familiar favourite, BHF rounds up some great fashion and jewellery staples. North Road also houses a BHF furniture store too.
St Cuthbert’s Hospice – Despite being slightly on the more expensive side, this charity shop is dedicated to a local charity. You’ll find some great formal wear and shoes!
The Charity Shop I can’t remember the name of in Bishops Place where Paperchase used to be (I so discovered) – Unfortunately my memory has failed me however this is ironically my favourite charity shop, you’ll find yourself plenty of big brands for small prices.

There are so many charity shops around Durham, and if you ever make a trip to big Tesco or McDonald’s in Gilesgate, make sure to also visit the huge Barnardo’s Charity Shop!

Nail salons

Durham Nails – Located on North Road, expect to pay around £22 for Gels and £30 for a full set of plain acrylics.
Durham Nails Express – The similarly named but entirely different salon is located near the Leazes underpass and hidden Tesco Express just past The Gala. Expect to pay around £20 for gels and £30 for plain acrylics.

Due to demand, waiting times in the salons are long even despite appointment bookings since there are a high number of walk-ins and little staff. Don’t go if you haven’t got the time or patience to sit around!

Walking and views

As well as gorgeous cobbled streets, Durham has a lot of equally beautiful greenery despite being a city. The streets can also get busy as people trek to and from lectures, so here are my favourite places to go for a more quiet walk…

The paths around the river – Surrounded entirely by greenery, follow new routes around the river and discover beautiful views! You may be familiar with Prebends Bridge, connecting the hill colleges to the Bailey colleges, but surrounding it are lots of walking routes perfect for a refresh and to perhaps get places you never realised were connected. Surrounding Maiden Castle are also some good river walks that can lead you (rather confusingly) into the centre of town. In the Autumn these get covered with all different coloured leaves.
Observatory Hill – Observatory Hill is famous for its view and is classed as all-nighter or firework-watching territory. However, once you’re actually over the top, there are lots of fields and even more views for you to find.
The Botanical Gardens – For once, the really far hill colleges are actually near something. Snow, Mildert, Butler and Stevo this one’s for you. A lovely place to walk but also a place to quite literally touch some grass (or any of the plant variety there) and reconnect with nature. Unfortunately restricted by structured opening times, so make sure to check before you go.

Newcastle nightlife

Although Durham nightlife can be great, don’t be afraid to commit to a night out in Newcastle. You can get the N21 bus up until 5am from outside the clubs all the way back to your Hill college for just £1!! Even if you decide to go on the day, trains to Newcastle are less than £5 and go very frequently. Friday night is probably your best bet, and here are my favourite places.

Dog and Parrot for pre’s – Three triples for £9! How can anyone say no to that? With more of an indie music scene, two floors of bars and music and an outdoor terrace really bring the vibes.
The Mile Castle for pre’s – An amazing disco spoons with all your familiar spoons traits and drinks just a short walk from the station.
The Social Club – Multiple rooms of different music and an amazing house scene, don’t miss Friday night “CASA”. Far from DJ Dave B at Jimmy Allen’s, you’ll hear a lot less Olivia Rodrigo and Neil Diamond and more Sammy Virji and FISHER. Make sure to bag yourself a ticket as entry on door is expensive, not guaranteed and only after 1am.

Non-drinking activities and other random spots…

YuMe World – The Arcade on Riverwalk – this new addition to Riverwalk arrived just before the summer and is great fun.
Lane7 – If you ever fancy some bowling in a very picturesque neon setting for no more than £8, head down to its convenient location, sharing the same building complex of the Gala and Wetherspoons.
Films at The Gala – Chain cinemas are often quite expensive for a student budget, but the Gala shows new and old films for really cheap for just £5! Check out their website.