When is the best time to visit Durham?

Durham is known for its mesmerising cathedral, intriguing castle, vibrant culture, and captivating natural beauty. While there's never a 'wrong' time to visit Durham, the experience can vary significantly depending on the season. This guide will help you understand what each season in Durham has to offer, assisting you in choosing the perfect time for your visit.

Durham weather: what’s it like?

In a nutshell, Durham boasts a pretty temperate maritime climate. That means you'll get to experience all four seasons - spring's bloom, summer's warmth, autumn's vibrant colours, and the cosy chill of winter. The weather could be your personal tour guide, showing you what's best to enjoy each season.

It does snow from time to time - but that only adds to Durham’s magic!

What can I do in Durham in Spring?

Ah, spring (March to May), when Durham shakes off winter's chill and everything starts to bloom. The average temperature bounces between 9°C and 15°C (although they can be as low as 2°C at night). It's a fab time for walking tours around the city, which you can find out more about on our Walks page, or for smelling the flowers at one of Durham’s numerous public gardens or parks. Plus, there’s the Durham Pride Festival in late Spring which always draws big crowds into the city.

How can I enjoy Durham in the summer?

Summer in Durham (June to August) is a sunny delight, with temperatures averaging between 15°C and 20°C. Time to set sail on a river cruise, have a picnic at Wharton Park, or explore Durham’s outdoor markets. You’ll find plenty of options on our Things to Do pages. If you're around in July, you can't miss the Durham Miners' Gala - it's an amazing peek into Durham's cultural past.

What's special about Durham in the autumn?

Durham puts on quite a show during autumn (September to November), with autumnal foliage painting the city in vibrant hues. Temperatures cool down to between 9°C and 15°C - perfect for exploring Durham's iconic Cathedral or Castle without jostling through summer crowds. And if you're a book lover, you've got the Durham Book Festival in October - in the past this has featured writers such as Bill Bryson, Phillip Pullman, Jung Chang and Simon Armitage.

What can I do in Durham in winter?

Winter in Durham (December to February) might be the coldest season with temperatures between 1°C and 6°C, but it's got a charm all its own. Indoor attractions like the Durham World Heritage Site Visitor Centre become the hot spots, festive markets open for business at the Durham Festival, and Durham's traditional pubs are just perfect for a cozy warm-up. Once again, you’ll find plenty of options for Things to Do, no matter the weather, across our site.

With blue skies and tree-lined riverbanks, you can explore the natural environment even in the heart of the city

What are the Must-See Annual Events in Durham?

Apart from the seasonal fun, Durham's calendar is filled with annual events that add to its allure. There's the Fire and Ice Festival in February, the Durham Regatta in June, and the Durham Brass Festival in July. Trust us, these events are a must-visit, offering a perfect blend of local culture and community spirit that'll make your Durham experience even more special. We also maintain an annual calendar of events that you can download here in a handy A4 format.

So, When is the Best Time to Visit Durham?

The answer? Anytime, really! Each season in Durham spins its own unique tale, be it the fresh blossoms of spring, the outdoor concerts in summer, the vibrant hues of autumn, or the cozy, festive winter. If you’re visiting in the next few weeks, do check out our weekly calendar of events, which we regularly update throughout the season.