So, you’ve accepted your place at Durham. Congratulations! Now comes the slightly confusing part. Before you’ve even put your suitcases down, you’ll hear people talking about the Viaduct, Crossgate and the Bailey as though you’ve lived here for years. Luckily, Durham is small enough that you’ll soon get your bearings. You can walk across the city in around half an hour. The great thing is that every neighbourhood has something different to offer.
Whether you’re deciding where to explore after Freshers’ Week, or wondering where to live in second year, here’s everything you need to know.
The Viaduct
If you ask a Durham student where they’re living, there’s a good chance they’ll say the Viaduct. Its prime location between the Science Site and the city centre makes it a favourite with students. You’ll find plenty of student housing nestled between the cosy pubs here.
For a classic Durham pub, head to The Colpitts Hotel, an 1856-coaching-house with a real fire. Alternatively, try The Station House if you’re meeting friends by the station. If you’re after somewhere a little quieter, The King’s Lodge Inn is just a short walk away.
When the weather’s good, make time for Wharton Park. It has one of the best views across Durham Cathedral and Castle, and it’s the perfect place to escape the library for an hour.
A must-visit is Redhills Durham, the ex-miner’s hall which now serves as a heritage centre and community hub; catch live music there, or simply go for the guided tour to discover Durham’s mining past.
- To the city centre: 10-15 minute walk
- To the Science Site: 20-25 minute walk
- To the train station: 5-10 minute walk
- Must visit: Redhills, Wharton Park, Colpitts Hotel.
Crossgate
Just a five minute walk from the Viaduct, and choc-full of cosy pubs and cafés, the neighbourhood of Crossgate is well worth exploring.
Start with The Angel, one of Durham’s oldest pubs, before making your way to Holy GrAle, a favourite for craft beer lovers and live-music enthusiasts. Their hugely popular open mic nights are held on the last Sunday of every month. If you’re looking for brunch, The Georgian Townhouse is famous amongst students for its pancakes. It’s the ideal place to catch up with friends over the weekend.
- To the city centre: 5 minute walk
- To the Science Site: 20 minute walk
- To the train station: 5-10 minute walk
- Must visit: The Angel, The Holy GrAle, The Georgian Townhouse.
Durham City Centre
Even if you’ve only visited Durham once, you’ll probably recognise the city centre.
This is where you’ll find Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle, two UNESCO World Heritage landmarks you’ll end up walking past almost every day. They’re worth revisiting even after Freshers’ Week. Whether you’re showing family around or simply reminding yourself how lucky you are to study here, they’re always impressive. Top tip: guided tours of Durham Castle are free for students of the university.
If you’re looking for somewhere to browse, the 175-year-old Market Hall is packed with independent traders. There, you’ll find everything from books and gifts, to vintage clothes.
For food, Isla is one of Durham’s standout restaurants, while Head of Steam remains a student favourite for its huge drinks selection.
If you’ve got an evening free, check what’s on at the Gala Theatre. From comedy nights to touring productions, there’s usually something worth seeing. If you’re looking for more from the performing arts, student productions are held year-round at the Assembly Rooms theatre. It’s just a few minutes walk from the Cathedral.
And if you only do one thing in Durham, make it the riverside walk. Whether you’re heading towards Prebends Bridge or simply wandering after lectures, it’s one of the city’s best ways to unwind.
- To the city centre: you’re already there!
- To the Science Site: 15 minute walk
- To the train station: 10 minute walk
- Must visit: Gala Theatre, Durham Cathedral, Durham Castle, Market Hall.
Claypath
Claypath might not get the same attention as some of Durham’s older streets, but it’s somewhere almost every student ends up visiting. It’s home to shops, cafés, takeaways and plenty of student housing, making it one of the city’s most practical neighbourhoods.
The perfect community hub, Claypath Deli is a cosy café and bakery that hosts a pizza night every Friday until 9pm, as well as regular live gigs. If you’re looking to try something new, they also host regular sourdough making workshops, and coffee tasting masterclasses – yum! The newly opened Irish pub, Mr Flynn’s, is popular with locals and students alike. The karaoke at the Woodman Inn is famous for a reason. If you’ve forgotten to buy milk at 10pm or need a quick lunch between lectures, chances are you’ll end up on Claypath.
- To the city centre: 2-5 minute walk
- To the Science Site: 10-15 minute walk
- To the train station: 15 minute walk
- Must visit: Mr Flynn’s, Claypath Deli, St. Cuthbert’s Hospice Charity Shop.
Gilesgate
Located just outside the city centre, Gilesgate is a popular choice for students looking for slightly more affordable housing.
Not to be missed is the Old Cinema Laundrette, a professional laundry/bar/café/live music venue that originally opened as a cinema in 1928 – that’s quite the multitasker if you ask me. Also in Gilesgate is Bell’s Fish and Chips, who have taken home top honours at the National Fish and Chip awards.
The nearby Dragonville and Durham City retail parks are home to large supermarkets, restaurants, and plenty of useful amenities, making it a convenient place to live during second and third year, with a much lower price tag than the city centre. Although it’s a little further from the Cathedral than the Viaduct or Crossgate, it’s still an easy walk into town.
- To the city centre: 10-40 minute walk
- To the Science Site: 20-60 minute walk
- To the train station: 20-60 minute walk
- Must visit: Old Cinema Laundrette, Bell’s Fish and Chips.
Neville’s Cross
If you’re looking for somewhere quieter, Neville’s Cross is worth considering.
The walk into town is a little longer, but you’ll often find larger student houses and a more residential atmosphere. It’s particularly popular with postgraduates and students who don’t mind swapping a few extra minutes’ walk for a bit more peace and quiet.
- To the city centre: 15-20 minute walk
- To the Science Site: 20-25 minute walk
- To the train station: 15 minute walk
Whinney Hill
Whinney Hill is one of Durham’s quieter neighbourhoods, but don’t let that fool you, as it’s home to two of the city’s best hidden gems. If you’re celebrating the end of exams, a birthday or simply fancy treating yourself, book a table at The Rabbit Hole. Tucked away on Hallgarth Street, it’s known for its Cantonese-fusion menu, creative cocktails, and stylish interiors, making it one of Durham’s go-to spots for a special occasion.
Directly opposite, you’ll find The Victoria, a proper traditional pub, an award-winning pub with real fires, set within a gorgeous Grade-II listed building. With its historic interior, cask ales and friendly atmosphere, it’s the kind of place where you’ll happily spend an evening chatting over a pint after a long week of lectures.
Whether you’re in the mood for a memorable meal or a classic pub, Hallgarth Street is well worth the walk.
- To the city centre: 10-15 minute walk
- To the Science Site: 10-15 minute walk
- To the train station: 20-25 minute walk
- Must visit: The Rabbit Hole, the Victoria Inn
One of the best things about Durham is that nowhere ever feels too far away. You can leave the Science Site, grab lunch in the Market Hall, stop for a coffee in Crossgate and still make it to the riverside before the afternoon is over.
So don’t worry if you can’t remember where everywhere is just yet. Give it a couple of weeks, and you’ll be telling the next batch of freshers exactly where to find the best pub, the best brunch and the best view in the city. Enjoy!
I’m a recent graduate of History at Durham University, and am currently studying my Master’s in History at the same uni. I love all things arts and culture, and I’m usually getting involved in music or drama in some way or other!
