Durham Hotels

A hotel in Durham will allow you properly explore and experience the beautiful English settlement, which, over one thousand years old, has been the historic and cultural hub of Northern England over the course of many periods in history. Book a Durham hotel with Best Western to enjoy the influence that the city's past has had on its architecture and culture.

Durham neighbourhoods

The past of this wonderful city can be seen in its striking architecture and its beautiful structures as you stroll through the cobbled and buzzing streets after a morning latte in your Durham hotel. Durham University, the third-oldest in the country after Oxbridge and one of the only remaining collegiate campuses, lends a touch of class, an array of impressive facilities and a friendly buzz to the surrounding areas. From your hotel in Durham, take a trip to the Norman-built cathedral and castle. They are a testament to the area's historical importance, both having been designated UNESCO world heritage sites. The castle, used as a stronghold to stamp Norman authority on the rebellious Northerners, is the only castle to not have been breached in the United Kingdom.

Shopping in Durham

The Marquess of Londonderry statue presides over Market Place in the cobbled city centre. From here, the Bailey's winding lanes lead to the luxurious Palace Green and the aforementioned castle and cathedral. When looking for a hotel in Durham, consider being near the bustling, Victorian Indoor Market in the city centre. It offers a wide range of bargains and knick-knacks to satisfy the most dedicated of bargain hunters. Throughout the city, off-the-wall craft shops and stylish boutiques nestle in between top-name brands. The higgledy-piggledy streets are dripping with atmosphere. To people-watch in one of the many coffee shops at the end of a day's browsing is a surprisingly memorable experience. Leave your Durham hotel and head across Framwellgate Bridge where you'll find modern shops and bars along North Road, or perhaps rummage through knick-knacks and bargains at the bustling Victorian Indoor Market. Fowlers Yard is also worth a look as it now acts as creative space for craftsmen selling one-of-a-kind prints, photos and tapestries.

Eating and drinking in Durham

Argued to be the birthplace of mustard, Durham is home to a host of fine restaurants and eateries as well as pubs and bars. If you're a keen foodie, think about booking a Best Western hotel in Durham near the Market Place where most of the city's restaurants and tearooms are located. A wide selection of soups, sandwiches and snacks are served in the cosy central cafés for the tired tourist. Vennels, overlooking a beautiful 16th-century courtyard, or The Almshouses on Palace Green, deserve a special mention. The place for a gorgeous Italian meal has to be San Marcos at North Bailey, where platters of pasta and pizzas are carted between the tables and the only thing more agreeable than the staff is the portions. For the region's best Indian cuisine, head to Shaheen's in North Bailey for great flavour, value and an impressive selection; you'll be spoilt for choice!

Attractions in Durham

When booking a Best Western hotel, in Durham consider the many attractions and things to do. The historic city, as you might expect, has a unique collection of museums. The Oriental Museum, attached to the University is the country's only museum that is devoted solely to oriental art and antiques. Here you can see an impressive display of Chinese and Egyptian artefacts. Step back in time at the Durham Heritage Centre and Museum which houses local history, telling the story of Durham's growth from the Tenth Century to present day using displays, models and artefacts - a must for any history buff! Head to the Walkergate Development for an evening out of clubbing, drinking and socialising, or perhaps some theatre or comedy at the Gala Theatre. Book a Best Western hotel in Durham to experience this ancient and atmospheric settlement first hand. You'll have a UK city break like no other!

View Durham Attractions