{"id":29885,"date":"2018-02-14T16:01:28","date_gmt":"2018-02-14T16:01:28","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.travelodge.co.uk\/blog\/?p=29885"},"modified":"2024-06-20T13:01:46","modified_gmt":"2024-06-20T12:01:46","slug":"10-free-things-durham","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.travelodge.co.uk\/blog\/things-to-do\/10-free-things-durham\/","title":{"rendered":"10 free things to do in Durham"},"content":{"rendered":"

The picturesque city of Durham is blessed with historical charm and a whole host of exciting free things to discover!<\/h2>\n

Durham is a popular destination for families looking for a great day out. But what can you get up to without a trip costing the earth? Whether you fancy a wander in the great outdoors, discovering some fascinating facts or marvelling at magnificent lights, check out our top 10 free things to do in Durham on your budget staycation.<\/h4>\n
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1. Durham Cathedral & Palace Green<\/span><\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n

\"DurhamAttracting over 700,000 visitors every year, no trip to Durham is complete without taking in its stunning cathedral. Discover previously hidden spaces and artefacts, enjoy make-and-take craft sessions with the kids and learn all about the produce within the herb garden, to name just a few of the activities within this UNESCO World Heritage Site.<\/h4>\n

Outside, the lush green grass of Palace Green is the perfect spot to enjoy the Durham Castle’s historical architecture. <\/span>You might even recognise this gorgeous outdoor space and its outstanding gothic architecture from the Harry Potter franchise!\u00a0
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2. Enjoy a riverside stroll<\/span><\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n

\"Durham\"<\/h4>\n

If you\u2019re a fan of peaceful walks away from the buzz of the city, why not check out Durham\u2019s riverside walk? <\/span>Follow the meandering path of the River Wear as you pass the beautiful local scenery such as Prebends Bridge, St Oswald’s Church and, of course, Durham Cathedral on this 3-mile walk. While the city centre is still within easy walking distance, you\u2019ll feel worlds away within the natural surroundings.<\/span><\/h4>\n
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3. Durham Market Hall<\/span><\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n

\"DurhamWe all know that the Great British weather can sometimes be unpredictable, but don\u2019t let it rain on your parade. Why not take shelter in Durham Market Hall? Built in 1851, this Victorian venue is home to 40 independent traders, some of which have traded here for decades.<\/span><\/h4>\n

A warm and friendly welcome from all stallholders will soon warm your extremities as you browse the interesting items on offer. Grab a hot drink, a bite to eat or even some handmade gifts for your loved ones. By the time you\u2019ve finished perusing, it may be nice enough to venture back outside and visit the nearby Marquess of Londonderry statue.<\/h4>\n
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4.\u00a0Wharton Park<\/span><\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n

\"WhartonTake a leisurely wander through the foliage at Wharton Park. Handily located adjacent to Durham Railway Station, it\u2019s the ideal spot for everyone to stretch their legs before or after a long journey. Study the array of sculptures and statues, test your mettle on the putting green or take a well-deserved rest as the kids let off some steam in the nearby play areas. There\u2019s plenty of parking on-site and a caf\u00e9 for those in need of a refreshing beverage.<\/b><\/h4>\n
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5. Durham University Oriental Museum<\/span><\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n

\"DurhamLooking to explore the world without leaving Durham? Take a journey across continents and cultures at The Oriental Museum, a hidden gem in the heart of Durham University. This museum boasts a collection of over 36,000 artefacts, from ancient Egyptian mummies to delicate Chinese porcelain. Wander through endless galleries brimming with treasures from across North Africa and Asia, including Japan, Korea and India.<\/h4>\n

Whether you’re a history buff or simply curious about other ways of life, the Oriental Museum has something to spark your imagination, all for the price of nothing!<\/h4>\n
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Stay nearby<\/h4>\n
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6. Historic Libraries & Archives at Palace Green Library<\/span><\/a><\/strong><\/h3>\n
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A post shared by Durham University Things To Do (@duthingstodo)<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n