A millenial's guide to historic Durham City

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For those looking to understand Durham’s dark and mysterious past, head to Palace Green Library, where the Bodies of Evidence exhibition will tell you all about the gruesome remains of a mass grave of Scottish Soldiers was found under your feet!

Cobbled streets are part of Durham’s DNA and so is the student culture. Why not grab a coffee and check out the city’s most trendy youth hangout Flat White Kitchen? Don’t forget to try their famous smashed avocado on sourdough house breakfast and make your followers jealous! 

The jewel in Durham’s crown is the magnificent Durham Cathedral, but did you know you can explore previously unseen parts of the world heritage site? Download the England’s Historic Cities augmented reality app and take a tour of the Cathedral to hear the stories of everyday people from years gone by and uncover behind the scenes of hidden/locked rooms!

If venturing into the great outdoors is your thing, why not hire a rowing boat along the River Wear. The peaceful stretch of river which winds around the historic peninsula of the city is a perfect antidote to enjoy a summer’s day in the city. If the weather isn’t on your side, don’t panic - hop on the Prince Bishops River Cruise down on Old Elvet and relax at your leisure.

By night, you can find lots of activities to keep you entertained. Durham City has a quirky bar scene, none more so than the reputed world’s smallest gin bar ‘Tin of Sardines’. Their bartenders will mix a gin exact to your liking in this quaint intimate gem on the approach to Elvet Bridge.

If live entertainment is more your thing, check out the Old Cinema Launderette on Gilesgate. Still a fully functioning launderette and coffee shop, this unique venue proves popular with folk singers, live poetry and local bands. It’s definitely worth checking out what’s on at Durham Gala Theatre – which always has something on (be it world-famous comedy, musicals and cinema showings) for all tastes.

Stay: Hotel Indigo - With the magnificent university, castle and world renowned Durham Cathedral just a short stroll from the doors, you’ll be spoilt for choice. The stage for Hotel Indigo is the former Grade 1 listed Durham University building ‘Old Shire Hall’, where you’ll find Victorian façade spills out into our ancient and romantic neighbourhood laden with historic pubs, cosy cafes and spellbinding churches.