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Camping in Durham

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All About Camping in and around the City of Durham

Are you on the search for a destination for your next camping holiday? The city of Durham could be just the right thing for you. The charming city in Northern England is just waiting to be discovered by you!

Durham is not only known for historic sights, but also a wide range of activities that make campers' hearts beat faster. Whether you want to go on a hike, sit by the campfire or just enjoy nature - here you'll find all that and a lot more. We introduce you to popular activites and the most beautiful destination when camping in and around the city of Durham)!

  1. Popular Activities in the City of Durham
  2. The Most Beautiful Destinations in the City of Durham
  3. Find Campsites in and around the City of Durham and Book Online

Popular Activities in the City of Durham

Durham Dales, Durham, Camping in Durham, Camping
Durham Dales

Hiking: Discover the Beauty of Nature

You think hiking at camping around Durham is only for mountain goats and extreme athletes? Far from it! In the Durham Dales, a great rolling landscape just a 30-40 minutes drive away from the city of Durham, you'll find routes for every fitness level.

From family-friendly walkways to challenging climbs for experienced mountaineers - the selection is as diverse as the flora and fauna you'll discover on your way. And hey, have you ever heard of the Pennine Way? It's one of the oldest and longest long-distance paths in England and runs directly through the Durham Dales!

But no worries, you don't have to walk the entire path. You can also only pick a section for a day trip and enjoy the breathtaking view. From lush green meadows, to rivers, to the impressive moors - the landscape here is a real feast for the eyes.

River Wear, Durham, Camping in Durham, Camping
River Wear in Durham

Fishing: Relax by the Water

For all anglers the city of Durham is a particularly great destination on a camping holiday.

The River Wear surrounds the city centre and is known for its rich diversity of fish - from carps to trouts.

There are suitable fishing spots in the area for both beginners and advanced anglers, and local fishing shops often offer day passes. So grab your fishing rod, relax at the river and with a bit of luck you'll reel in a big fish.

Durham, Camping in Durham, Camping
City of Durham

Adventure Sports: Rush of Adrenaline

The city of Durham is exactly the right place for all adventurous campers. The River War is a hotspot for kayak and canoe tours and even beginners can practice their paddle strokes in the moderate flow.

For all climbers among you there are special indoor climbing gyms here. In the Durham Dales there are also natural rock formations for climbing and mountain bike trails, ranging from easy to extreme.

So get ready for a dose of adrenaline when camping around the city of Durham.

Experience History: Trip to the Past

You can go on on a real journey through time while spending your camping holiday in the city of Durham! Bring out your curiosity and visit two impressive historical sites: Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle. Both have the status of UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site.

Durham Cathedral is not only a feast for the eyes with its Gothic architecture, but also a spiritual place that has existed since the 11th century. And the best thing? There are special tours where you can discover the secret corners of this centuries-old cathedral. Sometimes there are even night tours for the true adventurers among us!

But now on to Durham Castle. Originally built in the 11th century as a defensive structure, it later served as a palace, and today it is part of the University of Durham. Can a building be any more versatile? Here too, there are guided tours that take you deep into medieval history and architecture.

So combine your camping holiday around Durham with a decent dose of history and culture. You won't regret it!

The Most Beautiful Destinations in the City of Durham

Derwent Park Caravan and Camping Site, Durham, Camping Durham, Camping
Derwent Park Caravan and Camping Site near Durham

Durham Market Hall: Shopping and Feasting

Are you ready for a shopping experience of the extra class while camping? Then Durham Market Hall is exactly your thing! Although the market hall is over 150 years old, it's still the pulsating heart of the city of Durham where old and young come together.

Now don't think that this is just any food market. No, here you'll find a great mix of tradition and modernity. Whether fresh fruit and vegetables for your next barbecue evening, exotic spices for the camping cook or handmade souvenirs to remember your trip - the selection is gigantic!

And for all foodies among you: There are also many stands offering local specialties. Ever heard of Ever heard of "Pease Pudding"? This pea puree is a traditional dish from the region and is served as a side to many different meals - you definitely have to try it when you're in the area.

So grab a few coins and dive into the hustle and bustle of Durham Market Hall. Then, back at your campsite, you can cook up something great with your haul from the market. You can find recipes for camping on our theme page.

High Force Waterfall, Durham, Camping Durham, Camping
High Force Waterfall near Durham

High Force Waterfall: Natural Spectacle

Definitely don't miss visiting the High Force Waterfall if you want a real wow moment during your camping trip around Durham.

At 21 metres high, the waterfall, which is part of the River Tees, is one of the largest in England and is located in the middle of the Durham Dales - not far from the city of Durham.

You'll hear the thunder of the water before you even get there - a real natural spectacle! Get your camera out, because the setting is made for holiday photos.

Beamish Museum: Journey to Another Time

If you're looking for a bit of a change of pace in Durham and want to delve deep into history at the same time, then the Beamish Museum is a real hit for you - especially if you're travelling with kids.

Here you'll stroll through an authentic recreation of a village from the time of the Industrial Revolution! Not just a few old buildings, no, we're talking about a living museum. You can ride in real trams from the era, try your hand at being a "schoolboy of yesteryear" in an old school and even enjoy a cold ale in historic pubs.

And that's not all: you can look over the shoulders of craftsmen who practise their art exactly as it was done over a hundred years ago. So Beamish is not only a place for history buffs, but also for anyone who wants to experience what life in Northern England was really like. A real must-see that will open up new perspectives for you!

University of Durham, river, Durham, Camping Durham, Camping
University of Durham on the river

Botanical Garden: Oasis of Peace

The Botanical Garden of the University of Durham is basically the secret star of the city of Durham and definitely offers more than a few pretty flowers.

On an area of 10 hectares you will find a colourful mixture of exotic plants that will amaze all amateur botanists. You will also find majestic trees and ponds full of water lilies.

Imagine sitting by one of these ponds and enjoying the green oasis with all your senses, unpacking a picnic or relax while reading a book.

Find Campsites in and around the City of Durham and Book Online

Of course, after all those interesting activities and destinations in the city of Durham you need a place where you can unwind after a long day.

You're in luck, because on camping.info you can find a selection of different campsites around Durham! With our filter function it's also really easy to find campsites that suit your wishes - whether dog-friendly, with a playground or near a river.

So what are you waiting for? Pack your things and experience Durham in all its glory. See you around the campfire!

Finde und book an available campsite in the city of Durham now

Finchale Abbey Touring Park, Durham, Camping Durham, Camping
Finchale Abbey Touring Park in Durham

3 Things Campers in Durham Should Know

Is wild camping allowed in the city of Durham?

Unfortunately, we have to disappoint you: Wild camping is generally not allowed in Northern England, and therefore also in the area around the city of Durham. There are special plots and areas called "Common Land", but even there, wild camping is generally not allowed. And believe me, the last thing you want is to be woken up by an angry landowner or even the police.

The good news is that there are many campsites in and around Durham where you can legally pitch your tent. Many of them are beautifully situated in the countryside and still offer all amenities.

Finde und book an available campsite in the city of Durham now

What is the best time to go camping in the city of Durham?

If you like sun and warmth and are active outdoors during the day, then the period from May to September is right up your street. Temperatures are mild to warm, and the chance of sunshine is rather high. Also, the days are long, which means you have more time to enjoy the beautiful nature and the many activities around Durham. In autumn you will need a waterproof jacket and good boots because of the cool temperatures, but you can enjoy the autumn colours of the forests and fields.

If you are a real hardcore camper and don't mind a bit of snow and cold, you can of course also go camping in winter. On camping.info you can use the filter search to find campsites in the area that are also open in winter.

In short, the "best" time to go camping in the city of Durham depends on your personal preferences. But no matter when you come, Durham has its own charm in every season.

Finde und book an available campsite in the city of Durham now

What can I do when camping with a dog in the city of Durham?

It's understandable that you want to have your beloved four-legged friend with you on your camping holiday around Durham. Luckily, that's no problem at all! We have put together the Top 3 activities for camping with a dog in the city of Durham. Grab your leash and let's go!

  1. Hiking in the Durham Dales What could be better than a long walk with your furry friend? The Durham Dales offer countless trails where you and your dog can enjoy the freedom of nature. Not only will you encounter spectacular viewpoints, but there's also plenty of space for your dog to let off steam. Don't forget your camera - the scenery here is amazing for vacation pictures!
  2. A Day at River Wear Fancy a bit of water action? The River Wear is not only ideal for fishing, but also a paradise for water lovers on four paws. In some places the river is shallow enough that your dog can splash around without worrying. And for you? Pack a good book or try stand-up paddling while your dog enjoys the cool water.
  3. Explore the City Park If you're not up for a long drive, the city park in Durham is a great option. Most parks are dog-friendly and offer plenty of space for a game of fetch or a relaxing lunch break. Some even have special dog areas where your four-legged friend can romp with other dogs to their heart's content.

Finde und book an available campsite in the city of Durham now

Tips for Campers

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Camping for Anglers
Tips and Spots for Fishing
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Camping by the River
Pitches directly by the Water
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Frequently asked questions

Which is the best campsite in Durham?

The best rated campsites in Durham are:

  1. Finchale Abbey Touring Park, 2
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How expensive is camping in Durham?

An overnight stay at a campsite in Durham costs on average €24.00. Prices vary depending on the season and the facilities and location of the campsite.
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Which campsites are available in Durham?

The occupancy rate of campsites in the Durham is very much dependent on the travel period. During holidays and public holidays, campsites are often fully booked well in advance. The location and popularity of a campsite as well as the weather are further factors. We therefore recommend looking for availability early and booking directly online. For short-term camping holidays in the Durham, we offer you the option of searching for currently available campsites in real time.
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