Church adjacent to Town Hall from Market Place
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Durham Town Hall and Guildhall

4.6
·134 reviews·, United Kingdom

Discover Durham's civic heart: a free, historic gem showcasing beautiful architecture, art, and artifacts. A must-see for history and art lovers.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Saturday mornings

Open for visitors

CrowdLow
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Church adjacent to Town Hall from Market Place

Durham Town Hall and Guildhall

Best Time

Saturday mornings

Open for visitors

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover Durham's civic heart: a free, historic gem showcasing beautiful architecture, art, and artifacts. A must-see for history and art lovers.

4.6
(134 reviews)

"A beautiful building, well worth a look, especially as it's free! Plenty of history here."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Free Admission!

Entry is free, but donations are appreciated to help preserve this historical gem. :heart:

⏳ Allow 30 Minutes

A minimum of 30 minutes is recommended to explore the building and its exhibits. :stopwatch:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Grand Civic Rooms

Grand Civic Rooms

Inside the Guildhall

Explore beautifully decorated rooms showcasing local history and impressive artwork. Each space offers a unique feel and historical narrative.

Historical Artifacts Collection

Historical Artifacts Collection

Various rooms

Admire a decent collection of historical items, including weapons and large paintings, offering a tangible connection to Durham's past.

HMS Invincible Bell

HMS Invincible Bell

Display area

See the actual bell from the HMS Invincible (1980), a unique maritime artifact connecting Durham to naval history.

Stunning Window Glass Works

Stunning Window Glass Works

Display areas

Marvel at a wonderful collection of window glass works, some of which are quite large and intricately designed.

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Planning Your Visit

Unlock Durham's Civic Heart

Discover the rich civic history and stunning architecture of Durham Town Hall and Guildhall. This free attraction offers a glimpse into the town's past, with beautiful paintings and historical artifacts. Plan for a short, insightful visit.

A Free Glimpse into History

Don't miss this free opportunity to explore Durham's heritage. While information might be sparse in places, the beautiful rooms, impressive paintings, and unique artifacts like the HMS Invincible bell make it a worthwhile detour for history buffs and architecture admirers.

Best Times

When
Saturday mornings
Why
Open for visitors
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Is this “Public Transparency?” I think not. I went to a public town hall meeting in London, Ontario (Ward 4) that centred around the topic of the homelessness crisis. The meeting was hosted by city councillor Susan Stevenson and all were welcome. I set up a camera to record the discussion for people who couldn't be there. I have the equipment and I'm sitting there anyway, so it's what I typically...
@bendurham.ca
209K likes • 2.6M views

🎯 Free Admission!

Entry is free, but donations are appreciated to help preserve this historical gem. :heart:

⏳ Allow 30 Minutes

A minimum of 30 minutes is recommended to explore the building and its exhibits. :stopwatch:

City of Durham is racist and Mayor Williams don’t do nothing for the people #bullcity #hayti #blackhistory
@jerryt99
15.3K likes • 90.5K views
You don’t want to miss this. It’s our first Triangle young alumni event of the summer. Meet us for a fun mix and mingle tonight @thbbdurham. Also snag a complimentary #gdtbath tank top (first come, first served) View our website for more information. alumni.unc.edu/youngalumni
carolinaalumni
103 likes • 0 views

🖼️ Admire the Art

Don't miss the gorgeous paintings and window glass works adorning the walls. :frame_photo:

📜 Seek Out Info

While some areas could use more information, look for the TVs providing historical context. :tv:

I had the absolute pleasure photographing these beautiful memories at the THBB UNC Meet & Greet in support of Autism!! #unc #uncbasketball #photographer #eventphotography #autism #autismawareness #fundraiser #thbb #portraitphotography #explorepage
throughmylens23_
53 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Free Admission!

Entry is free, but donations are appreciated to help preserve this historical gem. :heart:

⏳ Allow 30 Minutes

A minimum of 30 minutes is recommended to explore the building and its exhibits. :stopwatch:

🖼️ Admire the Art

Don't miss the gorgeous paintings and window glass works adorning the walls. :frame_photo:

📜 Seek Out Info

While some areas could use more information, look for the TVs providing historical context. :tv:

⚓ Discover Naval History

Find the bell from the HMS Invincible (1980) for a unique piece of maritime history. :ship:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(134 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Durham Town Hall and Guildhall as a free, hidden gem offering a wealth of civic history and beautiful architecture. The impressive paintings, unique window glass works, and historical artifacts like the HMS Invincible bell are highlights. Some note that more detailed information could enhance the experience, but overall, it's considered a worthwhile and insightful visit.

"I’d say this beautiful building is a must see if you’re in Durham. A wealth of civic history and architecture awaits you behind the unassuming facade. Allow a minimum of 30 minutes to explore this hidden gem."

Steve Krawczyk

"The town hall doesn't cry out as a venue to visit, but it's well worth a look (especially as it's free!) Plenty of history here, it won't take you hours to go around or anything but there are multiple rooms to look at - each have their own sort of feel to them...!

It could perhaps do with a bit more information here and there, but it was a nice place to be sidetracked from what we were doing!"

Andrew Cartwright

"Omg amazing inside the rooms are beautiful done pics and so interesting its free to go in but they appreciate a donation really lovely building gorgeous paintings on the walls and so interesting they give information to you inside one of the rooms on telly worth watching"

Lisa Scarrott

What People Like

Free admission
Beautiful architecture
Historical artifacts

What People Dislike

Limited information

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Durham Town Hall and Guildhall are centrally located within Durham. Public transport options include local buses that stop near the town center. If driving, there are several car parks available nearby, though they can be busy. Check local transport websites for the most up-to-date routes and schedules.

Yes, there are several public car parks within walking distance of Durham Town Hall and Guildhall. Popular options include the Prince Bishops Shopping Centre car park and the Walkergate car park. Be aware that parking fees apply and can vary.

Durham Train Station is a short walk from the town center. It's approximately a 15-20 minute walk to Durham Town Hall and Guildhall, offering a pleasant stroll through the city.

The town center of Durham has some inclines. While the Town Hall itself is generally accessible, it's always a good idea to check with the venue directly for specific accessibility information regarding entrances and internal navigation.

For first-time visitors, approaching from the main city center is usually the easiest. Follow signs for the Market Place or the Cathedral, and the Guildhall is a prominent building in that vicinity. :round_pushpin:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to Durham Town Hall and Guildhall is free! It's a wonderful opportunity to explore historical civic spaces without any admission cost. :ticket:

The Guildhall is often open for visitors on Saturdays, and sometimes during weekday afternoons. It's best to check the official Durham County Council website or local listings for the most current opening times, as these can vary seasonally. :clock1:

While there aren't typically formal guided tours advertised, the staff inside are usually happy to provide information. You can also explore at your own pace and learn from the displays and information provided within the rooms. :scroll:

Yes, while entry is free, donations are greatly appreciated. These contributions help in the preservation and maintenance of this historic building and its collections. :moneybag:

Durham Town Hall and Guildhall can be used for various civic events and functions. Keep an eye on local event listings or the Durham County Council website for any public events that might be taking place during your visit.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Inside, you'll find beautifully decorated civic rooms, a collection of historical artifacts including weapons and paintings, impressive window glass works, and the bell from the HMS Invincible. It's a compact but rich display of local heritage. :gem:

Most visitors find that 30 minutes to an hour is sufficient to explore the main areas and appreciate the exhibits. It's a great spot for a quick yet insightful visit. :stopwatch:

Information about public Wi-Fi availability inside Durham Town Hall is not widely advertised. It's advisable to rely on your mobile data or download any necessary information beforehand. :iphone:

Photography is generally permitted for personal use inside Durham Town Hall and Guildhall, but it's always good practice to check for any specific signage or ask staff if you're unsure. Avoid flash photography that might damage exhibits. :camerawithflash:

Information is presented through displays, artifacts, and some televisions showing historical context. While some visitors suggest more detailed information could be beneficial, the existing content offers a good overview of Durham's civic history. :scroll:

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Durham Town Hall and Guildhall are primarily historical and civic buildings, and typically do not have on-site dining facilities. :knifeforkplate:

The Town Hall is located in the heart of Durham city center, which is packed with dining options. You'll find numerous cafes, pubs, and restaurants just a short walk away, catering to various tastes and budgets. :hamburger:

Yes, the surrounding city center offers many family-friendly restaurants. Look for chains or local eateries that advertise children's menus or have a relaxed atmosphere. :child:

While you can't eat inside the Town Hall, there are public spaces and benches in the city center where you could enjoy a picnic. The Market Place is a good area to consider. :bread:

Popular spots near the Guildhall often include traditional pubs offering hearty meals, as well as cafes for lighter bites and international cuisine restaurants. Exploring the streets around the Market Place will reveal many choices. :map:

📸 📸 Photography

The most photogenic spots inside include the grand civic rooms with their ornate decor, the large paintings on the walls, and the unique window glass works. The HMS Invincible bell also makes for an interesting shot. :camera:

Generally, yes, photography for personal use is allowed inside Durham Town Hall and Guildhall. However, always check for any posted signs or ask staff to confirm, especially regarding flash photography. :iphone:

This location is ideal for architectural photography, historical detail shots, and capturing the ambiance of civic spaces. The paintings and glass art offer opportunities for close-up, artistic shots. :art:

Drone photography is generally not permitted in urban areas like city centers due to privacy and safety regulations. It's highly unlikely you'd be able to fly a drone near Durham Town Hall. :noentrysign:

Since you're indoors, the time of day is less critical than ensuring good lighting. The natural light from windows can be lovely, but the internal lighting is usually sufficient. If natural light is a priority, visiting when it's open during daylight hours is best. :sunrise:

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Durham Town Hall and Guildhall can be a surprisingly engaging stop for families, especially given its free entry. The visual elements like the large paintings and the unique window glass works can capture children's attention. The collection of historical artifacts, such as weapons, might also spark their curiosity about the past. Reddit

Keep the visit relatively short, focusing on the most visually interesting parts. The HMS Invincible bell could be a fun talking point about ships and history. While there aren't specific children's activities, the novelty of exploring a historic building and the 'free' aspect make it a good option for a brief, educational outing without breaking the bank. Remember to check opening times as they can be limited.

🏛️ History Buffs & Architecture Enthusiasts

For those with a keen interest in history and architecture, Durham Town Hall and Guildhall is a must-visit. The building itself is a historical artifact, offering insights into civic life and architectural evolution. The 'wealth of civic history' is palpable, with each room telling a story. Reddit

Pay close attention to the 'gorgeous paintings' and the 'window glass works,' which showcase artistic talent from different periods. The collection of historical artifacts, including weapons and the HMS Invincible bell, provides concrete links to Durham's past. While some might wish for more detailed interpretive information, the sheer presence of these historical elements makes it a rewarding experience. Reddit

🚶 Day-Trippers

If you're visiting Durham for the day, the Town Hall and Guildhall is an excellent, easily accessible attraction that won't eat up too much of your time or budget. Its central location makes it convenient to pop in between visiting other major sights like the Cathedral or Castle. Reddit

Allow about 30 minutes for a quick exploration. It's a great way to get a feel for the city's civic heritage and admire some beautiful art and historical items without needing to book in advance or pay an entrance fee. It’s a perfect 'sidetrack' to enrich your day trip experience. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Journey Through Durham's Civic History

Durham Town Hall and Guildhall stand as testaments to the town's rich civic past. Stepping inside is like opening a history book, with each room offering a unique narrative. The building itself is a piece of history, showcasing architectural styles that reflect different eras of its development. Visitors often remark on the 'wealth of civic history' contained within its walls, making it a compelling stop for anyone interested in local heritage.

The collections housed within the Guildhall provide tangible links to Durham's past. From impressive paintings that adorn the walls to historical artifacts like weapons and the bell from the HMS Invincible, these items offer a glimpse into the lives and events that shaped the town. The 'social history' aspect is particularly noted by visitors, who appreciate the chance to connect with the everyday lives of those who came before. While some reviewers suggest more detailed information could enhance the experience, the existing displays are considered 'interesting' and 'worth watching.'Reddit

For those seeking a deeper understanding, the Guildhall serves as an excellent starting point. It's a place where the 'rich heritage of Durham' is preserved and presented. The unique window glass works, some of which are quite large, add another layer of artistic and historical appreciation. It's a 'little gem' that, despite its unassuming facade, offers a significant historical and cultural experience for free. Reddit

Architectural Charm and Artistic Treasures

The Durham Town Hall and Guildhall are not just repositories of history but also showcases of architectural beauty and artistic talent. Visitors consistently praise the 'beautiful rooms' and the 'gorgeous paintings on the walls,' highlighting the aesthetic appeal of the building. The interior design, with each room possessing its 'own sort of feel,' contributes to a varied and engaging exploration.

Beyond the paintings, the Guildhall features a 'wonderful collection of window glass works,' some of which are notably large. These intricate pieces add a unique visual dimension to the experience, demonstrating craftsmanship and artistic vision. The combination of architectural elements and decorative arts makes the building a delight for anyone with an appreciation for design and aesthetics. Reddit

While the building might not 'cry out as a venue to visit' from the outside, its interior rewards exploration. The 'wealth of civic history and architecture' is truly revealed once inside. It’s a place where you can 'admire and appreciate' the details, making it a worthwhile detour for its visual and historical richness. Reddit

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