There is a lot to love about living in Durham. From its historic city centre and independent businesses to the River Wear, surrounding countryside and vibrant food and drink scene, Durham offers a lifestyle that combines the character of a historic city with the pace and community feel of a smaller city.
For those considering moving to the area, the attractions go well beyond Durham Cathedral and Castle. From weekend walks and coffee stops to independent shopping, restaurants and cultural events, there is always something to discover.
As a property team based in the city, we know that lifestyle is an important part of what makes Durham City such an appealing place to live. Here’s our guide to spending a day in the city and some of the things that make it such a popular place to call home.
Start your day with coffee in Durham City
A weekend in Durham is best started slowly.
The city centre is home to a growing selection of independent cafés, coffee shops and places to enjoy breakfast, with plenty of options around the Market Place, Saddler Street, Elvet Bridge and the surrounding historic streets.
One of the benefits of living in Durham is the compact nature of the city centre. Many of the places you want to visit are within walking distance, making it easy to leave the car at home and explore on foot.
Whether you’re meeting friends for coffee, grabbing breakfast before a day of shopping or simply finding somewhere to sit and watch the city go by, Durham’s café culture is a big part of its appeal.
Explore Durham’s independent shops
After breakfast, take a wander through Durham’s independent shops.
The city has a strong independent retail scene, with boutiques, gift shops, food businesses and specialist retailers spread throughout the historic centre. Durham Market Hall is another destination worth exploring, with independent traders offering everything from food and drink to gifts and handmade products.
For residents, having independent businesses on the doorstep adds to the character of the city and gives the centre a strong sense of community.
It’s also a good reminder that living in Durham doesn’t necessarily mean travelling further afield for your weekend plans. There is plenty to discover locally.
Take in Durham Cathedral and Castle
It’s difficult to talk about Durham without mentioning its most recognisable landmarks.
Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle dominate the city’s skyline and sit at the heart of the historic peninsula. Both are part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and are central to the city’s identity.
Even if you’ve lived in Durham for years, the view of the Cathedral from the city’s bridges and riverside paths never really gets old.
For anyone considering buying a property in Durham, the historic character of the city is one of its biggest attractions. Period properties, historic streets and views across the peninsula give the city a character that is difficult to replicate elsewhere.
Walk along the River Wear
One of the best things about living in Durham City is having access to green space without being far from the centre.
The River Wear winds around the historic peninsula, with riverside paths offering scenic walking routes through and around the city.
A riverside walk is an easy way to spend an afternoon, whether you’re walking the dog, meeting friends, getting some exercise or simply taking a break from the city centre.
The surrounding countryside also provides plenty of opportunities to explore further, making Durham an appealing option for people who want access to both city amenities and outdoor space.
Discover Durham’s food and drink scene
When it comes to eating and drinking in Durham, there is plenty of choice.
The city centre has everything from independent restaurants and traditional pubs to cafés, bars and newer food and drink businesses.
For residents, the ability to walk into the city centre for dinner or drinks is another part of the appeal. Durham’s relatively compact layout means that you can enjoy a meal, visit a bar or meet friends without needing to travel far.
The food and drink scene also continues to evolve, with new businesses adding to the city’s offering alongside long-established favourites.
Enjoy Durham’s events and culture
There is more to Durham’s cultural scene than its historic buildings.
Throughout the year, the city hosts events, exhibitions, performances, markets and festivals, while Durham University’s presence contributes to a lively atmosphere, particularly during term time.
The Gala Theatre and other local venues provide opportunities to see live performances, while museums and galleries offer ways to explore the city’s history and culture.
For families, couples, professionals and students alike, this variety contributes to the sense that there is always something happening in Durham.
What makes Durham a popular place to live?
Ultimately, it is the combination of different lifestyles that makes Durham so appealing.
You can live close to a historic city centre while having easy access to the river and countryside. You can spend a Saturday exploring independent shops and cafés or head further afield to explore the wider county.
Durham also benefits from strong transport connections, with the city’s railway station providing direct services to Newcastle, York, Leeds, London and other major UK destinations.
For homeowners, this combination of location, amenities, character and lifestyle is an important part of Durham’s property appeal.
Finding your next home in Durham
The lifestyle on offer is one of the reasons Durham continues to attract people looking to move to the area.
The residential property market includes everything from city-centre apartments and period homes to larger family properties and houses in surrounding villages and suburbs, meaning there are options for a wide range of buyers.
For anyone considering buying or selling property in Durham, understanding the local market and individual neighbourhoods is an important part of the process.
At Bradley Hall Durham, our residential team combines local knowledge with the wider expertise of a full-service property consultancy, helping buyers and sellers navigate the local market.
Whether you’re already living in Durham and considering your next move or looking to relocate to the city, our team can provide advice on the local property market and help you understand what your options could look like.
Thinking about moving to Durham?
From its historic architecture and independent businesses to its riverside walks and vibrant city centre, Durham offers a lifestyle that combines the best of city and countryside living.
If you’re considering buying or selling a property in Durham, speak to the Bradley Hall Durham team for advice on the local residential property market. Contact the team on 0191 383 9999 or email durham@bradleyhall.co.uk
