Day out in Durham

[Northernlurker]

Any tips? Taking our German exchange students on Saturday. Where is good to eat too?

Thanks!

I’d pop into the cathedral because it was used in Harry Potter, wander around the market hall, a river cruise (or you can hire rowing boats by Elvet Bridge), treasure hunt (www.treasuretrails.co.uk/collections/durham) and a show at The Magic Corner www.tomboltonmagic.com/themagiccorner
Riverview Kitchen is brilliant for lunch and hot chocolate. For an evening meal, I’d suggest La Spaghettata or Tango. Alternatively, for something very British, Bell’s Fish Shop (Market Place) does the best fish and chips and the best afternoon tea is at Treat’s.

I think it’s Durham University open day on Saturday so it’ll be really busy and I think there are also Road closures for a service at the cathedral! No tips but it’s beautiful there 🙂

Definitely the cathedral. They also have a museum there where you can see St Cuthberts treasures (although not sure if that is open all the time). And there is a nice little cafe there too.

The botanic gardens is lovely. Have a walk along the river too if you can. I'd second the Riverview or Vennels is nice too for lunch. Hope you have a lovely time.

Fab tips! Aargh re open day. Thanks all

Sorry another question- best to park and ride?

La spaghettata can be very studenty. Fat hippo is nice nearby - burger joint, also students but better food. Or Lebaneat, pricier still.

To do, Cathedral obviously, there's a museum and heritage centre on the Bailey which is cheap and OK, don't miss Fowlers Yard if you are passing but don't make a special trip, Market Hall is good, Palace Green library is free for a quick nose in, walk round the riverbanks (once parkrun has finished), maybe Crook Hall Gardens for something v English.

Beware open day chaos and consider going by train or park and ride.

Think I would. There's not a huge amount of parking in the city and the park and rides are good

Yes Saturday and Sunday are both open days

Lovely thanks!

Rio steakhouse is lovely but is a chain. The curious mr fox has a good rep for food but would I need booking. The Cosy Club is great but again definitely would need booking.
Cathedral and castle for certain. The indoor market hall is interesting.
A walk along the river towards the university boat house is pleasant. If you fancy an uphill walk you can head up to Durham School which is like a mini Hogwarts (ignore the 60's add on block!)
And if it's your thing a walk past the county hotel towards the prison is interesting!

Just back. Pretty successful! We went in to the cathedral , did some shopping (enjoyed the vintage shops) and market then walked along the North Bailey as they found the uni interesting. One of our visitors loves England so much she's aspiring for uni here. Then walked along the river. Food we just did pizza express as allergies are an issue and their guidance was nice and clear. Park and ride very good.
Thanks again.