Dreamy Durham: A 2-Day Romantic Escape

Discover romance in the charming streets of Durham.

24 May 2023

A romantic trip to Durham, United Kingdom is a perfect getaway for couples. The city is home to a beautiful castle, charming historic streets and the breathtaking Durham Cathedral. Walks along the River Wear and indulging in delicious local cuisine are a must.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

A Glimpse of Durham

  • Hotel: Durham Marriott Hotel Royal County
  • Check-in to your romantic room with views of the River Wear and Durham Castle.
  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Cafe Cenno within the hotel. Their pancakes are legendary.
  • Visit Durham Cathedral and marvel at its magnificent architecture. Don't miss the intricate rose window.
  • Take a leisurely stroll along the tree-lined banks of River Wear and cross the historic Prebends Bridge.
  • Explore the 13th-century Durham Castle, now home to the prestigious Durham University.
  • End your day by watching a movie at the plush Gala Theatre, or catch a performance at the historic Empire Theatre.
Day 2

A Taste of Durham

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Vennels Cafe, famous for its scrumptious Full English breakfast.
  • Take a short train ride to Lanchester and visit the romantic Lanchester Garden Centre. Stroll through their garden-inspired shops and find something unique to bring back home.
  • Enjoy a leisurely afternoon tea at the quaint Crook Hall & Gardens, set in a beautiful medieval courtyard.
  • Visit the Prince Bishops Shopping Centre and indulge in retail therapy. Their Christmas market is a must-visit.
  • End your day with dinner at the romantic The Cellar Door restaurant. Specializing in British cuisine, indulge in their signature dish the locally-sourced Durham beef.
  • With so much to see and do, Durham is the perfect destination for a romantic weekend getaway.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Durham, United Kingdom by plane is to fly to Newcastle International Airport and take a 20-minute taxi or metro ride to Durham.

Car

The most convenient way to get to Durham by car is to take the A1(M) motorway and exit at Junction 62. Durham is approximately 260 miles from London and 125 miles from Edinburgh.

Train

Durham is accessible by train from major UK cities such as London Kings Cross, Glasgow, and Edinburgh. The nearest train station is Durham Station located in the city center.

Boat

Although Durham is not accessible by boat due to its inland location, it is possible to take a ferry from continental Europe to Newcastle and then take a taxi or metro to Durham.

Bus

National Express buses provide transportation to Durham from major UK cities such as London, Manchester, and Liverpool. The bus station is located just a few minutes walk from the train station.

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Experience the vibrant 12th century architecture of Durham Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore the surrounding cobbled streets filled with local shops and restaurants. Take a stroll through the picturesque Durham University Botanic Garden, featuring thousands of plants from around the world, or visit the Bowes Museum, renowned for its art and fashion collections. End the day with a scenic riverside walk along the River Wear, taking in stunning views of the city's famous castle and rolling hills.

Durham Delights: A Fun-Filled Family Adventure on a Budget

Durham, United Kingdom offers a captivating family-friendly trip with its rich history, stunning architecture, and natural beauty. Explore the iconic Durham Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, which provides an awe-inspiring experience for both kids and adults. Take a leisurely walk along the banks of the River Wear and enjoy family-friendly activities such as boating or picnicking in the scenic parks, making Durham an ideal destination for a memorable family vacation.

Dive into Durham: A 2-Day Adventure

Durham, UK boasts a magnificent medieval cathedral, UNESCO World Heritage Site, and one of the oldest universities in England. A tourist can stroll around the picturesque town, visit Palace Green Library, and take in the stunning views of the River Wear. The city offers a unique blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty, making it a perfect destination for a memorable vacation.

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Durham offers plenty of affordable options for travelers on a budget. Explore stunning historic sites such as the Durham Cathedral and Castle, both featuring student-friendly admission rates. Enjoy budget-friendly eats from local cafes and pubs, and take advantage of free walking tours to fully immerse yourself in the city's rich history and culture.