Cathedral to Cobbles: Durham Weekender 2026

Overview

This weekend short break offers a perfect taster of the centuries-old city of Durham and a slice of living local history on top. We start by delving into the beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site of old Durham to witness its Romanesque Cathedral and soak up its other sights at our leisure. The next day, we travel to the award-winning Beamish Museum in County Durham, an immersive outdoor museum which brings the bygone days of the northeast back to life.

Itinerary

PACKAGED ITINERARY

Day 1 Arrival
We arrive at our hotel in time for dinner.

Day 2 Durham
We spend today in the small but grand city of Durham, beginning with a visit to beautiful Durham Cathedral where we admire its breath taking vaulted ceiling and distinctive carved pillars. The Cathedral is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site which also covers Durham Castle and the buildings located between them. We spend the rest of the day at leisure. The city is compact so we can easily explore, with highlights including the stunning Castle, Palace Green, the old marketplace and pleasant riverside walks. Please be  aware that Durham city has some steep streets.

Day 3 Beamish Museum
Today brings a treat for history buffs. We head to the award-winning Beamish Museum, dubbed the Living Museum of the North, to experience daily life in the north-east during the last two centuries. Occupying 300 acres of picturesque Durham countryside, this famous open-air museum recreates life from the 1820s and 1900s using costumed characters, reconstructed buildings and authentic vehicles. Here, we can stroll along cobbled streets, visit a 1940s farm and pit village, learn about the tribulations of Victorian life from the costumed volunteers, enjoy free rides on the old-fashioned street tram and more.

Day 4 Departure
After breakfast, we make our way home.

Map
Hotel

Radisson Blu Hotel Durham

Durham

AAAA

Overlooking the River Wear and conveniently located within walking distance of Durham’s historic city centre, the Radisson Blu Durham has a superb location. All 207 stylishly decorated rooms are spacious equipped with air-conditioning, TV and tea/coffee making facilities, as well as carafe for use at the water stations. There is a large, modern restaurant with views over the river. The hotel also has an open-plan bar with comfortable seating, which leads out to the riverside terrace. The hotel’s leisure facilities include indoor swimming pool, sauna, spa bath, steam room and gym.

BarLeisure FacilitiesLiftParking On Site & Free of ChargeRestaurantTea & Coffee making facilities
Pricing

Radisson Blu Hotel Durham

Durham

 

3 Nights Half Board
Twin from £304pp
Double for Sole Use Supplement from £95

Inclusions
• Entrance to Durham Cathedral
• Entrance to Beamish Museum

Please refer to your quote for hotel inclusions.