Trains to Durham

Save money when you travel to Durham by train

Railcards offer great value for money if you travel by train, saving you up to 1/3 on most rail fares. You can find out more about our range of Railcards on the Railcard website(external link, opens in a new tab).

If you plan ahead and buy Advance tickets you can also get great deals on rail fares.

Find out more ways to save money on your train ticket.

Plan your trip to Durham

Blending ancient history with modern charm in the north east of England, Durham is a UNESCO World Heritage site for its magnificent cathedral, castle and university – the third-oldest in England.

Special events and celebrations take place throughout the year, including the Durham Miners’ Gala, Europe’s largest celebration of trade union and working-class culture, and the magical Lumiere Festival, which transforms the city with dazzling light installations every 2 years.

Durham for kids and families

Durham offers plenty to do for families, from hands-on learning experiences to outdoor fun.

• Durham Castle: first built in 1072, this historical wonder is part of Durham University, which offers guided tours of the site

• Wharton Park: overlooking the city, this beautifully landscaped park has a play area, miniature car track, and regular family events

• Durham Walking Tour: A fun and educational way to explore the city’s cobbled streets and hidden corners, ideal for older children. Get 2FOR1 tickets for the Durham Walking Tour(external link, opens in a new tab) with National Rail’s Days Out Guide when you go by train

• Durham University Botanic Garden: explore beautiful plant collections from around the world in a tranquil setting, offering educational and engaging experiences for all ages. Children under 16 get in free

Free things to do in Durham

Travelling on a budget? Durham’s rich heritage means there’s lots to enjoy without shelling out.

• Durham Cathedral: marvel at this architectural masterpiece and UNESCO World Heritage site, home to the Shrine of St Cuthbert. It was a filming location for some of the Harry Potter films, as well as Avengers: Endgame

• Riverside walks: take a stroll along the River Wear, with scenic views of the cathedral and castle from Prebends Bridge

• Durham University’s Oriental Museum: a treasure trove of artefacts from ancient Egypt, China, and beyond

Durham, city of culture

The Gala Theatre in the heart of the city hosts a packed programme of drama, comedy, music, and film, with a strong focus on local talent. Durham Cathedral regularly transforms into a spectacular concert venue for choral works and classical performances. The Old Cinema Launderette is a quirky venue where you can clean your clothes by day and catch an intimate gig by night.

The Sir Thomas Allen Assembly Rooms Theatre, run by Durham University, showcases student productions and touring performances in a historic setting. Every year, the Durham Fringe Festival brings experimental and alternative performances to unexpected locations across the city.

Shop till you drop in Durham

• Durham Market Hall: this historic Victorian market is home to a variety of traders

• Prince Bishops Place: an open-air shopping centre featuring high-street brands, independent stores and place to eat

• Fowlers Yard: a creative hub of artisan studios and boutiques tucked away near the riverside

• Silver Street: Durham’s main shopping street

• The Riverwalk: a modern riverside complex with shops, restaurants, and a cinema

Durham’s food hotspots

• Saddler Street: this historic street houses numerous restaurants and cafés, from authentic Italian trattorias to contemporary bistros, all within walking distance of the cathedral

• The Riverside: find everything from casual pub meals to fine dining with stunning views of the cathedral, along the River Wear

• North Road area: known as Durham’s ‘curry mile, it’s where you can find the region's best Indian and Pakistani restaurants