Durham, England, United Kingdom: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Durham, England, United Kingdom? If you're planning to go to Durham, I've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Durham, England, United Kingdom

Based on the climate and weather in Durham, England, United Kingdom, the best time to go is August. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Durham, England, United Kingdom

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Durham, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Durham, England, United Kingdom by month

January

January in Durham can be brisk and somewhat rainy. The rain/snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Durham. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Make sure to choose the necessary kind. The majority of adapters available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

If you are intending to check out the majestic Durham Cathedral, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanic Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

February

If you vacation in Durham during February, you might see that it can be very chilly and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 40s F (single digits C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 30s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about a third of the time and snow sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Durham. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Make sure to find the necessary type. Most adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you are intending to check out the majestic Durham Cathedral, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanic Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

March

March in Durham is brisk and somewhat rainy. The rain/snow can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Durham. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Check that you get the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters available are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you are intending to check out the majestic Durham Cathedral, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanic Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

April

In April, Durham is pretty cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 50s F (low 10s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Durham, with several of the days of the month having rain. In April, humidity reaches as high as 70%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Durham. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. It's important that you pick the correct kind. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you are intending to check out the majestic Durham Cathedral, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanic Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

May

If you visit Durham during May, you may notice that it is chilly, somewhat rainy and somewhat hazy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 50s F (mid 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 40s F (single digits C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about a third of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Durham. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be careful to pick the right type. The majority of adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you are intending to check out the majestic Durham Cathedral, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanic Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

June

If you go to Durham in June, you will notice that it is crisp, somewhat rainy and somewhat hazy. Expect it to rain 5-10 days this month. Daytime temperatures are in the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Durham. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Make sure to pick the necessary type. The majority of adapters available are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you are intending to check out the majestic Durham Cathedral, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanic Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

July

In July, Durham is mild. Temperatures routinely are in the high 60s F (low 20s C) and regularly jump into the low 70s F (low 20s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 50s F (low 10s C). This is also a rainy time for Durham, with a few of the days of the month having rain. In July, humidity reaches as high as 70%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Durham. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be careful to choose the correct type. A lot of adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you are intending to check out the majestic Durham Cathedral, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanic Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

August

If you visit Durham during August, you will probably notice that it is mild and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 60s F (low 10s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (low 10s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Durham. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Make sure to get the correct kind. Most adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

If you are intending to check out the majestic Durham Cathedral, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanic Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

September

Traveling to Durham in September, you will notice that it is relatively cool and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain regularly. Daytime temperatures are in the low 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Durham. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Take care to choose the right kind. A lot of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

If you are intending to check out the majestic Durham Cathedral, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanic Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

October

October in Durham is relatively cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures average in the 50s F (low 10s C) during the day. It rains a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Durham. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Take care to get the necessary kind. Most adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

If you are intending to check out the majestic Durham Cathedral, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanic Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

November

In November, Durham is pretty cool and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the high 40s F (single digits C) range. At night, lows are in the high 30s F (single digits C). This is also a rainy time for Durham, with several of the days of the month having rain. In November, humidity reaches as high as 80%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Durham. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Ensure that you get the necessary type. Many adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

If you are intending to check out the majestic Durham Cathedral, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanic Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

December

If you are traveling to Durham in December, you will notice that it is pretty cool and somewhat rainy. Expect it to rain about a third of the time and snow sometimes. Daytime temperatures are in the 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, United Kingdom has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Durham. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Ensure that you choose the necessary type. Most adapters available are just plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you are intending to check out the majestic Durham Cathedral, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Botanic Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

What to do in Durham, England, United Kingdom

Durham is one of the most beautiful cities in the northeast of England, located in the county of Durham. The city is well-known for its rich heritage, gothic architecture, stunning scenery, and vibrant cultural scene. With so many things to see and do in the city, here is a list of the top tourist attractions that should not be missed when visiting Durham (England) in the UK.

Durham Cathedral

The iconic Durham Cathedral is undoubtedly one of the most famous landmarks in the northeast of England. The breathtaking cathedral is a world heritage site, considered one of the finest examples of Norman architecture in Europe. Built between 1093 and 1133 AD, the cathedral is a symbol of religious worship, history, and culture in the city. Visitors can marvel at its impressive Gothic architecture, the incredible vaulted ceiling, and the fantastic stained-glass windows.

Durham Castle

Durham Castle is situated on the south bank of the River Wear, adjacent to the cathedral. The castle was first constructed in the 11th century and has served different functions over the years, including as a military stronghold, a palace, a prison, and now as part of the University of Durham. Inside, visitors can take a guided tour that lets them explore the various rooms, dungeons, and courtyards.

Durham University Botanic Garden

The Durham University Botanic Garden is a 10-acre park situated at the heart of the university’s science campus. The garden features a wide range of plants from different geographical locations, including Japan, America, and India. There are several themed gardens like the Alpine Garden, the Tropical Rainforest Glasshouse, and the Woodland Garden. Visitors can take a leisurely walk through the gardens, admire the plants and wildlife, and have a picnic on the open lawns.

Beamish Museum

The Beamish Museum is an open-air museum that lies about ten miles from Durham city center. The museum is a recreated 20th century mining town, complete with working trams, shops, and houses that transport visitors back in time. The museum is a great way to experience life in the North-East of England in the early 1900s, with interactive displays and actors dressed in period costumes. Visitors can also sample traditional food and drink, including cakes and ale, cooked over open fires.

Durham Market Place

Durham Market Place is a historic public square in the city center, surrounded by shops, restaurants, and cafes. The market has been operating in the town since the 11th century and is one of the largest indoor markets in the northeast. Visitors to the market can browse and buy a range of goods, including fresh produce, pastries, and souvenirs.

Final Thoughts

Durham (England) is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and historic cities in the northeast of England. Visitors should take the time to explore the heritage and cultural attractions that reflect the city's rich past and cultural diversity. Whether you are fascinated by Gothic architecture, want to immerse yourself in nature or experience life in the early 1900s, Durham has something for everyone. Make sure to take the time to see the top tourist attractions on this list and create memories that will last a lifetime.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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