Summer may feel like a distant memory, luckily for us Durham is the kind of city that shines brighter with every season. As all Durham locals will know, there’s something truly magical about autumn and winter here. The days may be shorter and the air colder, but the city comes alive. New festivals, markets and cultural events are perfectly set against the backdrop of iconic historical landmarks like the Durham Castle. Take a stroll along the River Wear as it sparkles in the evening or across the cobbled streets under lantern light.
Whether you’re a couple, family or even a solo traveller, treat yourself to a cosy autumnal or festive break in Durham. You’ll find endless things to do in the city between October and December. From the famous Lumiere festival to the return of the Durham Christmas Festival. Better yet, all these events and activities can be easily reached from Hotel Indigo Durham.
Why Visit Durham in Autumn and Winter?
If you’ve never experienced Durham outside of summer, you’re in for a treat. Autumn brings crisp air, golden leaves, and a relaxed atmosphere as students return to the historic university city. Winter, meanwhile, sees the city come alive with festivals, markets, and cosy cafés to escape the chill.
To help fill your Durham getaway itinerary, we’ve put together a little list of our favourite things to do in the city during the colder months –
- Take a walk with a view – Take in the sights of Durham as you stroll along the River Wear or through the stunning Botanic Gardens at Durham University.
- Local pubs and tearooms – There’s no better way to warm up and refuel after a long day of exploring than paying a visit to a cosy pub or tearoom.
- Shopping trips – From your favourite high street shops to a quirky collection of crafts stores and independent boutiques, Durham has it all.
- Culture & History – No trip to Durham would be complete without visiting the city’s icons, Durham Cathedral, Durham Castle, or the Gala Theatre.
With a packed calendar of events, there’s always something happening in the city. Let’s take a closer look.
Lumiere Durham 2025
13–16 November 2025
Every two years, Durham is transformed by Lumiere, the UK’s largest light festival. For four dazzling nights, the city becomes an open-air gallery, with international artists projecting imaginative light installations across iconic landmarks.
Expect Durham Cathedral to glow in colour, bridges lit up with creative displays, and hidden corners of the city brought to life through art and light. Past installations have included illuminated waterfalls, interactive sculptures, and light shows set to music, making it a truly immersive experience. Lumiere is free to attend, but it’s one of Durham’s busiest weekends. Luckily, Hotel Indigo Durham is within walking distance of the festival’s main attractions, giving you the perfect base for your visit.
Find out more on the Lumiere Festival website.
Durham Book Festival 2025
October 2025
For literature lovers, the Durham Book Festival is a highlight of the year. Hosted by New Writing North, it’s one of the UK’s oldest and most respected literary festivals, drawing in top authors, poets, and speakers from across the world.
The programme usually includes panel discussions, author readings, workshops, and family-friendly sessions. Previous festivals have welcomed household names in fiction and non-fiction, as well as exciting emerging writers. Events are spread across the city’s historic venues, from lecture halls to the stunning Gala Theatre, offering a chance to experience Durham’s cultural side alongside its literary celebrations.
Whether you’re passionate about novels, poetry, or non-fiction, the Book Festival is a great reason to visit Durham in October.
Explore the programme on the Durham Book Festival website.
North Pennines Stargazing Festival 2025
22 October – 2 November 2025
Just outside Durham lies the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, one of the best places in the UK for stargazing. The area has official “Dark Sky” status, meaning minimal light pollution and breathtaking views of the night sky.
Enjoy the festivals wide ranging programme from astronomy to family-friendly stargazing. The annual North Pennines Stargazing Festival celebrates this unique location with expert-led astronomy talks, family activities, telescope viewings, and guided night walks. It’s a chance to see the mind blowing world above us like never before. Take it all in as you explore constellations, planets, and even the Milky Way in incredible detail.
The festival is perfect for families, amateur astronomers, and anyone looking to experience the natural beauty of the region after dark. A short drive from Durham, it’s an inspiring way to connect with the night sky during your visit.
Check out the North Pennines Stargazing Festival programme today!
Durham Christmas Festival 2025
5–7 December 2025
Kick off the festive season with a visit to the Durham Christmas Festival, one of the most anticipated events of the year. For three days, Durham’s historic city centre is filled with seasonal cheer, featuring markets, live entertainment, and festive food and drink.
Highlights include:
- Craft & gift stalls in Durham Cathedral Cloisters, selling handmade jewellery, art, and decorations.
- A festive market in the Market Place, packed with local food, drink, and unique gifts.
- Family entertainment, from carol singers to street performers.
The cathedral provides a spectacular backdrop, making this festival one of the most atmospheric Christmas markets in the North East. Whether you’re shopping for unique gifts or simply soaking up the atmosphere, it’s the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit.
Plan your visit via the Durham Christmas Festival website.
Stay at Hotel Indigo Durham
Some people view their hotel as ‘just a room’ or ‘a place to stay’ when they take a trip, but with Hotel Indigo Durham, you don’t have to settle! A stay with us means you’re close to the action, perfectly located for exploring our wonderful city and event.
Experience a boutique hotel overflowing with historic charm set in a beautifully restored building. Just minutes from the Cathedral, Market Place, and river walks, guests can enjoy:
- Stylish, comfortable rooms designed with Durham’s heritage in mind.
- On-site dining, with menus showcasing seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.
- Central location, ideal for walking to Lumiere, the Christmas Festival, and other city events.
Whether you’re here for Lumiere 2025, the Book Festival, or simply to soak up Durham’s autumn and winter atmosphere, Hotel Indigo provides the perfect home away from home.
Book your stay today and experience the very best of Durham events 2025.
