Beautiful architecture
1 / 10

Owengate

4.6
·491k reviews·, United Kingdom

A picturesque cobblestone street in Durham, leading to breathtaking views of the magnificent Durham Cathedral.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Serene atmosphere, perfect light

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Beautiful architecture

Owengate

Best Time

Early mornings

Serene atmosphere, perfect light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A picturesque cobblestone street in Durham, leading to breathtaking views of the magnificent Durham Cathedral.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Owengate offers a truly spectacular view of Durham Cathedral, making it one of England's prettiest streets."

Vertical photo
TIP

👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential

Cobblestones can be uneven; wear comfy shoes for exploring Owengate and surrounding areas. :athletic_shoe:

📸 Golden Hour Magic

Visit during sunrise or sunset for the most magical light and fewer crowds. :camerawithflash:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Owengate's Cathedral View

Owengate's Cathedral View

Upper end of Owengate

The breathtaking vista of Durham Cathedral as you ascend Owengate is unforgettable.

Cobblestone Charm

Cobblestone Charm

Entire street

Wander the historic cobblestone street, soaking in the timeless atmosphere and architectural beauty.

University College Entrance

University College Entrance

Near the top of Owengate

See the historic entrance to University College, a picturesque part of the street's heritage.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Cobblestones

Owengate is a charming, historic street in Durham, known for its picturesque cobblestones and proximity to the cathedral. Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain can be uneven. Many visitors find it a delightful place for a stroll and photos.

Timing is Key for Photos

To capture Owengate's beauty without crowds, aim for early mornings or late afternoons. This is when the light is softest and the street is most serene, perfect for those iconic shots seen on Instagram.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Serene atmosphere, perfect light
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour glow
Crowd
Medium
When
Autumn
Why
Beautiful fall foliage
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Have you been to Durham? 💨🍃 #durham #england #northengland #visitengland #visitdurham
@flyingscotsgirl
3.1K likes • 79.9K views

👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential

Cobblestones can be uneven; wear comfy shoes for exploring Owengate and surrounding areas. :athletic_shoe:

📸 Golden Hour Magic

Visit during sunrise or sunset for the most magical light and fewer crowds. :camerawithflash:

Gilesgate deserves no hate 😤😤 #unistudent #uni #university #durhamuni #student #studentlife #durham #ucas
@elysia_sanders
2.4K likes • 40.4K views
Name your favourite street in England 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿❤️ By: @cat_thomson ⬅️ follow for more !😍👏 1. The Shambles, York, Yorkshire 2. Owengate, Durham, County Durham 3. Butchery Lane, Canterbury, Kent 4. Arlington Row, Bibury, Gloucestershire Follow us & use #unitedkingdomdaily to be featured. 💯 Tag someone who needs see this !😍 #unitedkingdomdaily
unitedkingdom_daily
86.9K likes • 1.2M views

☕ Cafe Stop Nearby

Enjoy a coffee at @cafedraldurham on Owengate for great views and treats. :coffee:

🚶‍♀️ Explore Beyond

Owengate leads to the magnificent Durham Cathedral and other historic sites. :world_map:

Look inside University College Accommodation 🏠 This is Owengate, a catered block.
universitycollegedurham
52 likes • 5.6K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👟 Comfortable Footwear Essential

Cobblestones can be uneven; wear comfy shoes for exploring Owengate and surrounding areas. :athletic_shoe:

📸 Golden Hour Magic

Visit during sunrise or sunset for the most magical light and fewer crowds. :camerawithflash:

☕ Cafe Stop Nearby

Enjoy a coffee at @cafedraldurham on Owengate for great views and treats. :coffee:

🚶‍♀️ Explore Beyond

Owengate leads to the magnificent Durham Cathedral and other historic sites. :world_map:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Owengate is widely praised for its stunning beauty and picturesque views, particularly the iconic sight of Durham Cathedral. Visitors love its historic cobblestone charm and its recognition as one of England's prettiest streets. Some find the cobblestones challenging for footwear, and crowds can be an issue during peak times.

What People Like

Stunning Cathedral views
Historic cobblestone charm
Picturesque streetscape

What People Dislike

Uneven cobblestones
Can get crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Owengate is centrally located in Durham city, easily accessible on foot from the city center. If arriving by car, parking is available in nearby city car parks. It's a short walk from Durham train station.

Yes, Owengate is a pedestrian-friendly street. Its charm lies in being explored on foot, allowing you to appreciate the historic cobblestones and architecture.

From Durham train station, it's about a 15-20 minute walk to Owengate. You can follow signs towards the city center and then towards Durham Cathedral.

Numerous bus routes serve Durham city center, with stops a short walk from Owengate. Check local bus timetables for the most convenient options.

Owengate is a historic cobblestone street, which can be challenging for wheelchairs and strollers. While navigable, proceed with caution and consider the uneven surfaces.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Owengate is a public street and is free to access and walk along. There are no tickets required for simply strolling down the street.

Owengate is a public street and is accessible 24/7. However, shops and cafes along the street will have their own operating hours.

There is no entrance fee for Owengate. It's a historic street that forms part of the fabric of Durham city.

Yes, Owengate is accessible at night. It can be particularly atmospheric when lit up, though some businesses may be closed.

Many guided tours of Durham city include Owengate as part of their route, often highlighting its connection to the Cathedral and University College. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The most iconic photo spot is looking up towards Durham Cathedral from the lower end of Owengate. The cobblestones and historic buildings also make for great shots. Instagram

Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best light for photography, with fewer crowds. Golden hour can create a magical atmosphere. Instagram

Drone usage is generally restricted in historic city centers and near sensitive landmarks like cathedrals. Check local regulations before flying a drone.

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the street's expanse and the Cathedral view. A standard lens works well for architectural details. Instagram

Generally, photography is permitted on public streets like Owengate. However, be mindful of private property and any specific signage.

🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining

Yes, @cafedraldurham is located on Owengate, offering meals and sweet treats with views of the Cathedral. Instagram

The area around Owengate offers a range of dining options, from casual cafes to traditional pubs and restaurants, serving British cuisine and more.

The @cafedraldurham on Owengate is a popular spot for coffee and refreshments. Instagram

While Owengate itself has a cafe, the wider Durham city center offers various budget-friendly options, including sandwich shops and pubs.

The cafe on Owengate may offer takeaway options. For a wider selection, explore the surrounding streets of Durham.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Owengate offers a visually engaging experience for families, with its unique cobblestone streets sparking imagination. While the uneven surface requires supervision for younger children, the walk up towards the magnificent Durham Cathedral provides a clear destination and a sense of adventure. Consider bringing a stroller with sturdy wheels or a carrier for very young children. The nearby @cafedraldurham is a good spot for a family-friendly snack break. Instagram

Make the walk up Owengate a treasure hunt, looking for interesting architectural details or imagining life in historic times. The grandeur of the Cathedral at the top is sure to impress, offering a rewarding end to the stroll. Remember to wear comfortable shoes for everyone, as the cobblestones can be tiring for little feet over longer distances.

📸 Photographers & Instagrammers

Owengate is a dream for photographers, consistently ranked among England's prettiest streets. Instagram+3 The iconic view of Durham Cathedral as you ascend the street is the prime subject, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset for that perfect, atmospheric shot. Instagram+1 The historic cobblestones and charming architecture provide excellent foreground and detail. Instagram

To capture the best shots, aim for early mornings to avoid crowds and enjoy softer light. TikTok A wide-angle lens is recommended to encompass the full grandeur of the Cathedral and the streetscape. Be mindful of the uneven terrain when setting up shots. While Owengate itself is free to access, consider visiting the Cathedral for interior photography opportunities (check their specific rules).

🚶‍♀️ History Buffs & Culture Seekers

Owengate is steeped in history, serving as a vital artery connecting Durham's city center to its most significant landmarks. As you walk its cobblestone path, you're treading ground that has been significant for centuries, likely linked to the early days of Durham Cathedral and University College. Instagram+1 The street's architecture reflects various periods, offering a glimpse into Durham's past. Instagram

Consider joining a guided walking tour of Durham that includes Owengate to gain deeper insights into its historical context and significance. Reddit The proximity to the Cathedral means you can easily combine a stroll down Owengate with a visit to this UNESCO World Heritage site, further enriching your understanding of Durham's rich cultural heritage.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Historic Charm of Owengate

Owengate is more than just a street; it's a gateway to some of Durham's most iconic landmarks. Its name likely derives from 'owen,' meaning 'sheep,' hinting at its historical use. The street is characterized by its beautiful cobblestones and the imposing presence of Durham Cathedral at its upper end. This picturesque setting has earned it recognition as one of England's prettiest streets. Instagram+2

Walking up Owengate offers a progressively stunning view of the Cathedral, culminating in a truly spectacular vista. Instagram The street also borders University College, one of Durham's historic colleges, adding to its academic and architectural significance. Instagram The combination of historic architecture, the proximity to the Cathedral, and the charming cobblestone surface makes Owengate a must-visit for anyone exploring Durham. TikTok

Many visitors enjoy simply strolling along Owengate, taking in the atmosphere and capturing photographs. The street's unique character is amplified during different seasons, with autumn foliage adding an extra layer of beauty. Instagram It’s a place where history feels palpable, inviting you to step back in time and appreciate the enduring charm of this northern English gem.

Experiencing Owengate: Tips from Travelers

Travelers consistently highlight the importance of comfortable footwear when visiting Owengate due to its uneven cobblestone surface. Reddit This is crucial advice for anyone planning to explore the street and its surroundings, especially if you intend to walk extensively. The visual appeal of Owengate is a major draw, and many recommend visiting during the 'golden hour' – shortly after sunrise or before sunset – for the most dramatic and flattering light for photographs. Instagram This timing also helps avoid the peak crowds, allowing for a more peaceful experience. TikTok

For those looking for a break or a refreshment, the @cafedraldurham located directly on Owengate is a popular choice. It offers meals and sweet treats with the added bonus of views towards the magnificent Cathedral. Instagram This makes it an ideal spot to pause, refuel, and soak in the surroundings. Beyond the street itself, Owengate serves as a perfect starting point for exploring other key Durham attractions, including the Cathedral and the historic Bailey area. Instagram

Many social media posts and traveler discussions emphasize the photogenic nature of Owengate, often featuring it in lists of England's most beautiful streets. Instagram+3 The combination of historic architecture and the iconic Cathedral view makes it a prime location for capturing memorable images of Durham. Planning your visit around optimal light and comfortable attire will significantly enhance your experience of this charming street.

You may also like