River walk from the boat tour
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Durham City Centre River Walk

4.3
·3k reviews·, United Kingdom

A scenic riverside promenade in Durham city centre, offering stunning Cathedral views, shops, and dining.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer students, more relaxed

CrowdLow
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River walk from the boat tour

Durham City Centre River Walk

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Fewer students, more relaxed

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A scenic riverside promenade in Durham city centre, offering stunning Cathedral views, shops, and dining.

4.3
(3k reviews)

"Lovely bars and restaurants sitting in sun watching world go by."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Comfortable Footwear

Wear comfy shoes for exploring the riverbanks and city centre. :athletic_shoe:

📸 Cathedral Views

Combine your walk with a visit to Durham Cathedral for stunning panoramic city views. :camerawithflash:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

River Wear Views

River Wear Views

Along the riverbanks

Stroll alongside the River Wear for iconic vistas of Durham Cathedral and the historic city skyline.

Cosy Club Experience

Cosy Club Experience

The Riverwalk area

Enjoy a drink or meal at The Cosy Club, a popular spot for its ambiance and special events like New Year's Eve celebrations.

Shopping & Dining Hub

Shopping & Dining Hub

City Centre Plaza

Discover a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes, with 'The Pit' noted as a favorite by visitors.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

While the Durham City Centre River Walk is lovely year-round, consider visiting during weekdays to avoid the student crowds, especially during term time. Evenings offer a magical ambiance with city lights reflecting on the water.

Embrace the Walk

The river walk is best explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a fair bit of strolling. Many visitors enjoy combining their walk with a visit to the nearby Durham Cathedral for breathtaking views.

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer students, more relaxed
Crowd
Low
When
Early evenings
Why
Magical city lights
Crowd
Medium
When
New Year's Eve
Why
Festive atmosphere
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Replying to @Peter THIS WAS AMAZING. Thank you all for the recommendations… WHATS NEXT? The creamy cheese is MAGICAL 👅👅👅 #parmo #kalanifood #england #uk #middlesbrough #unitedkingdom #foodtaste #foodreview #kalanismith #kalanismithfood #britain
@kalanighosthunter
71.1K likes • 1.4M views

👟 Comfortable Footwear

Wear comfy shoes for exploring the riverbanks and city centre. :athletic_shoe:

📸 Cathedral Views

Combine your walk with a visit to Durham Cathedral for stunning panoramic city views. :camerawithflash:

Visiting Middlesbrough, one of the most run down towns in the UK #travel #traveltok #middlesbrough #Vlog
@jevwd
7.1K likes • 125.7K views
Looking for the perfect city centre spot to stay in Durham? Radisson Blu Durham is right in the heart of this beautiful city, by the banks of the River Wear and with stunning cathedral views.⠀ Plus we’re just a 10-minute walk from the train station, or there’s plenty of on-site parking for guests.⠀ ⠀ Book your hotel stay, conference or special event on the website.⠀ ⠀ #durhamcathedral #durham #uk ...
radissonbludurham
6 likes • 182 views

🍽️ Dining Delights

Explore diverse eateries; 'The Pit' is a local favorite. :knifeforkplate:

✨ Evening Ambiance

The river walk is beautiful at night with city lights reflecting on the water. :city_sunset:

💕🏡 The Pink House 🏡💕 📍Gilesgate, Durham This stunning property is the perfect getaway for groups of up to 4 people. Located just a 20 minute walk to Durham City Centre and 5 minutes walk from the river this truly is the perfect property for a stay in Durham. Book your stay today! ☎️ 0191 384 0596 #durham2023 #toastlettings #thepinkhouse #durhamstaycation
toaststays
9 likes • 458 views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Comfortable Footwear

Wear comfy shoes for exploring the riverbanks and city centre. :athletic_shoe:

📸 Cathedral Views

Combine your walk with a visit to Durham Cathedral for stunning panoramic city views. :camerawithflash:

🍽️ Dining Delights

Explore diverse eateries; 'The Pit' is a local favorite. :knifeforkplate:

✨ Evening Ambiance

The river walk is beautiful at night with city lights reflecting on the water. :city_sunset:

📚 Student Hub

Be aware of student crowds during term time, especially at lunch. :books:

What Travellers Say

4.3
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Durham City Centre River Walk for its stunning views of the Cathedral and pleasant riverside strolls. The area is appreciated for its variety of shops and restaurants, with 'The Pit' and The Cosy Club being notable mentions. While generally positive, some note that it can get crowded, especially with students during term time.

"Lovely bars and restaurants sitting in sun watching world go by"

Keith Wellington

"Some great shops and places to eat, the pit was our favourite."

Marc Barber

"In the centre of the uni town. Several supermarkets n pharmacy stores for students daily necessities. Many restaurants with different cuisine to meet customer needs. Lunch time are usually packed."

* Woo Bai

What People Like

Beautiful Cathedral views
Pleasant riverside walks
Variety of shops & eateries

What People Dislike

Can be crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The River Walk is centrally located in Durham city. If arriving by train, it's about a 10-minute walk from Durham train station.Instagram Driving? There's on-site parking available.Instagram

Yes, on-site parking is available for visitors.Instagram Several city centre car parks are also within easy walking distance.

Absolutely! The river walk offers fantastic views of the Cathedral, and it's a pleasant walk between the two landmarks.

Walking is the best way to experience the River Walk and the surrounding city centre. Comfortable shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:

Durham has a well-connected bus network, and the train station provides easy access from major cities.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the River Walk itself is a public space and free to access. Enjoy the scenery without any admission fees.

The River Walk is accessible at all times, though individual shops and restaurants will have their own operating hours.

Entry to shops and restaurants is free; you only pay for purchases. Some venues, like The Cosy Club, may have ticketed events.Reddit

It's highly recommended to book tables, especially for popular spots like The Cosy Club or during peak times, to avoid disappointment.

The River Walk is integrated into the city centre, so you can access it from various points along the River Wear.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You'll find a mix of retailers, from high street brands to independent boutiques, catering to various needs and tastes.

Yes, there's a diverse range of restaurants and cafes offering different cuisines. 'The Pit' is a frequently mentioned favorite.Reddit

Besides shopping and dining, you can enjoy the scenic river views, visit the nearby cinema, or utilize the gym facilities.

Yes, it's a pleasant area for families to stroll, with plenty of dining options. Keep an eye on younger children near the river.

Evenings offer a lovely ambiance with city lights reflecting on the water, making it a popular spot for a relaxed stroll or a meal out.

📸 📸 Photography

The best spots are along the riverbanks offering views of Durham Cathedral and the historic bridges. Early morning or late afternoon light is ideal.

Absolutely! The River Walk provides some of the most iconic and picturesque viewpoints of Durham Cathedral.

It can get busy, especially on weekends and during events. Visiting on a weekday morning will offer fewer crowds for unobstructed shots.

Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) offers beautiful lighting. Evenings with city lights are also very photogenic.

Generally, personal photography is allowed. Be mindful of private businesses and any specific signage.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Durham City Centre River Walk is a great option for families. The paved paths are easy for strollers, and the open spaces provide room for children to move around. While the river is present, keeping a close eye on little ones is always advised. Many of the restaurants in the area are family-friendly, offering diverse menus that can cater to picky eaters. Consider a picnic by the river for a budget-friendly and enjoyable meal.

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Day-Trippers

For solo travelers and day-trippers, the River Walk offers a perfect blend of sightseeing, relaxation, and amenities. You can easily spend a few hours here, enjoying the views, grabbing lunch, and perhaps doing some light shopping. The proximity to the train station Instagram makes it an ideal stop for those arriving for a day trip. It's also a safe and pleasant area to explore independently, with plenty of cafes to stop for a coffee and people-watch.

couples

The Durham City Centre River Walk provides a romantic setting for couples. Enjoy a leisurely stroll hand-in-hand along the river, taking in the beautiful views of the Cathedral. Many of the restaurants offer intimate dining experiences, perfect for a date night. Consider visiting in the evening when the city lights create a magical atmosphere. A visit to The Cosy Club for drinks could also be a lovely addition to your outing.Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the River Wear

The Durham City Centre River Walk offers a delightful way to experience the charm of this historic city. As you stroll along the banks of the River Wear, you're treated to breathtaking views of the iconic Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle, both UNESCO World Heritage sites. The path is well-maintained, making it accessible for most visitors, and provides a peaceful escape from the bustling city centre.

Many visitors highlight the scenic beauty of the riverbanks, noting it as a perfect spot to relax and watch the world go by.Reddit The walk is particularly enchanting in the early morning or late afternoon when the light casts a warm glow on the ancient architecture. It's also a popular route for students and locals, offering a glimpse into daily life in Durham.

Beyond the natural beauty, the river walk is lined with various retailers, restaurants, and cafes.Reddit This makes it a convenient place to combine a leisurely stroll with shopping, dining, or enjoying a coffee. The proximity to the city centre means you can easily integrate the river walk into a broader exploration of Durham's attractions.

Dining and Entertainment Hub

The area around the Durham City Centre River Walk is a vibrant hub for dining and entertainment. You'll find a diverse array of restaurants and bars catering to various tastes and budgets. From casual cafes to more upscale dining experiences, there's something for everyone. Visitors have specifically praised 'The Pit' as a favorite dining spot.Reddit

For those looking for a special occasion or a lively evening, The Cosy Club is a standout venue. It's known for its unique ambiance and has hosted popular events, including New Year's Eve celebrations with live music.Reddit Booking in advance is highly recommended for these popular establishments, especially during weekends or special events, to ensure you get a table.

In addition to dining, the area often features a cinema and a gym, adding to its appeal as a comprehensive leisure destination. This makes the River Walk area a perfect spot for a day out, whether you're a local resident or a tourist exploring Durham.

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