Durham is a city with a character all of its own. From its magnificent cathedral and historic university to its winding medieval streets and riverside setting, there’s something special about spending time here.
It’s a city shaped by centuries of history, creativity and academic life, and these influences can be found throughout Hotel Indigo Durham. Set within the beautifully restored Old Shire Hall on Old Elvet, the hotel has been designed to reflect the character of its surroundings, bringing together historic architecture, locally inspired details and contemporary boutique style.
For anyone searching for places to stay in Durham, Hotel Indigo offers something a little different: a hotel that doesn’t just sit within the city, but takes inspiration from everything that makes it distinctive.
A Hotel with a Story to Tell
Before becoming Hotel Indigo Durham, the building was home to Old Shire Hall, a historic landmark with an important place in the city’s story.
Its impressive Victorian architecture, original features and sense of grandeur have been carefully incorporated into the hotel’s design, creating a setting that feels connected to Durham’s heritage while offering all the comforts of a contemporary hotel.
Original architectural details, stained glass features and characterful interiors give the building a distinctive feel. Rather than losing its history through redevelopment, the hotel celebrates the character of the building and brings it into a new chapter.
It’s this balance of old and new that makes Hotel Indigo Durham stand out among boutique hotels in the city.
Inspired by the City, Designed for a Comfortable Stay
The inspiration behind Hotel Indigo Durham goes beyond its historic setting.
The city’s cathedral, university and academic heritage have all influenced the hotel’s interior design, with individually styled bedrooms reflecting different aspects of Durham’s identity.
From thoughtful design details to comfortable furnishings and modern amenities, each room has its own character while maintaining a connection to the city outside.
There are different room styles to choose from, including Standard and Premium rooms, alongside suites and accessible accommodation. Selected rooms also offer views of Durham Cathedral, giving guests the chance to enjoy one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks from their own room.
It’s a thoughtful approach to hotel design, creating a stay that feels distinctly Durham rather than somewhere that could be found in any city.
Getting to Hotel Indigo Durham
Getting to Durham is easy, with good rail and road links bringing visitors in from across the UK. Durham Railway Station is a short walk or taxi ride from Old Elvet, so you could be settling into your room soon after you step off the train.
If you’re driving, the hotel is easy to reach from the A1(M), and there’s on-site parking at the rear of the building, so you can drop your bags and start exploring.
For directions, parking details and everything else you need for the journey, visit our Getting to Us section.
Exploring the city
Once you’ve arrived, there’s plenty to enjoy within walking distance. From historic landmarks and riverside walks to independent shops and local places to eat, you can leave the car behind and discover Durham at your own pace.
Good Food and Relaxed Moments at The Chambers and Neighbourhood Coffee House
A memorable hotel stay is about more than just a comfortable bedroom. Having somewhere welcoming to enjoy a coffee, settle down for dinner or relax with a drink adds another dimension to the experience.
At Hotel Indigo Durham, guests can enjoy two distinctive spaces within the hotel.
The Chambers Kitchen & Bar brings together British grill dishes, regional ingredients and handcrafted cocktails in the historic surroundings of Old Shire Hall. It’s a lovely place to enjoy dinner or settle in for a relaxed evening after exploring the city.
For something more casual, The Neighbourhood Coffee House serves freshly brewed coffee, open sandwiches, cakes and pastries from local suppliers. It’s an inviting spot to start the day, take a break between exploring or catch up with friends.
Both spaces reflect the hotel’s connection to its surroundings, offering places to enjoy good food and drink while experiencing a little more of Durham’s character.
Discover dining at Hotel Indigo Durham.
Discover Durham from Hotel Indigo
A stay at Hotel Indigo Durham is an opportunity to experience the city from somewhere that reflects its history, architecture and personality.
From the character of the Old Shire Hall building to the individually designed bedrooms and welcoming dining spaces, the hotel brings together the heritage of Durham with the comforts of a contemporary boutique stay.
With the city’s historic attractions, independent businesses and riverside walks close by, it’s an ideal starting point for discovering everything Durham has to offer.
Planning a visit? Make Hotel Indigo Durham your base for discovering the city.
