Tips, What to Expect & Where to Stay
If you’re considering Durham University, attending an Open Day is one of the best ways to decide if it’s the right fit. Reading course information online is a great starting point, but nothing compares to walking through the city, exploring the colleges and getting a feel for student life.
This guide covers everything you need to know before your visit, from planning your day and making the most of your time on campus to finding the perfect place to stay in Durham.
When Are Durham University Open Days?
Durham University holds its Undergraduate Open Days in June and September each year. The final open days of 2026 take place on Friday 18 and Saturday 19 September, running from 9am to 4pm. These events give prospective students and their families the chance to explore academic departments, visit the colleges, speak to current students and get a feel for the city itself. Places must be booked in advance through the official Durham University Open Days page, and popular subject sessions fill up quickly, so it’s worth securing your spot early.
How to Prepare for a Durham University Open Day
A little planning goes a long way, especially as there is plenty to see across the city.
Book your place in advance
Durham University asks visitors to register before attending an Open Day. Booking early also gives you access to the latest event information and helps you plan your visit.
Plan the sessions you’d like to attend
Subject talks, college visits and information sessions take place throughout the day. Looking at the timetable before you arrive makes it easier to prioritise the sessions that matter most to you. If you’re undecided between a couple of courses or colleges, allow enough time to visit both.
Download the campus map
Unlike many universities, Durham isn’t centred around one campus. Colleges and academic departments are spread across the city, so having a map on your phone can help you navigate between locations without feeling rushed.
Wear comfortable shoes
Expect plenty of walking throughout the day. Durham’s historic streets include hills, cobbled paths and stairways, so comfortable footwear is essential.
Leave time to explore the city
The University and the city are closely connected. Spending an hour exploring beyond the organised activities gives you a better understanding of what daily life could look like if you choose to study here.
What to Expect at a Durham University Open Day
Durham University Open Days are designed to give prospective students a realistic picture of academic life, college life and the wider student experience.
Subject talks and departmental sessions
Academic departments host talks throughout the day, introducing visitors to course content, teaching methods, facilities and career opportunities. Staff are available to answer questions, helping you understand what studying your chosen subject at Durham is really like.
Explore Durham’s colleges
Durham’s collegiate system is one of the University’s defining features. During the Open Day, you can visit colleges, explore their facilities and learn about the different communities that make each one unique.
Current students are often available to share their experiences of college life, accommodation and the social side of university.
Meet current students and support teams
Student ambassadors are on hand throughout the day to answer questions about life at Durham, while specialist teams provide advice on admissions, student finance, wellbeing, careers and student support services.
These conversations often offer valuable insight into life beyond the lecture theatre.
Experience the city itself
One of the biggest differences between Durham and many other universities is that the city forms part of the student experience. As you walk between colleges and departments, you’ll pass historic buildings, independent cafés, riverside paths and bustling streets. Those moments between scheduled sessions help bring the city to life and often play a big part in deciding whether Durham feels like home.
Top Tips for Making the Most of Your Visit
Open Days are packed with information, so it’s worth making the most of every opportunity.
- Make notes after each subject talk while everything is still fresh.
- Take photos of the colleges and areas you particularly like.
- Speak to current students as well as academic staff.
- Compare colleges if you’re undecided.
- Allow time to explore beyond the University buildings.
- Stay overnight if you’re travelling a long distance or want more time to experience the city.
Explore Durham Beyond the University
Choosing a university isn’t just about the course. It’s also about finding a city where you’ll enjoy spending the next few years. Take time to stroll along the River Wear, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Durham Cathedral and Castle, browse the independent shops around Saddler Street, or simply sit with a coffee and watch the city go by. Durham is compact enough to explore on foot, making it easy to experience its character in just a day or two. Check out our Thing to do in Durham section for inspiration!
Where to Stay for Durham University Open Days
Location can make a big difference to your visit, and Hotel Indigo Durham places you right in the heart of the city. Set within the historic Old Shire Hall on Old Elvet, the hotel is within walking distance of many University buildings, colleges and Durham’s best-known landmarks. Instead of relying on the car between sessions, you can enjoy exploring the city on foot and soak up the atmosphere that makes Durham such a popular place to study.
The hotel’s boutique bedrooms take inspiration from Durham’s rich history and academic heritage, creating a stay that feels connected to the city around you.
Before setting off for the University, enjoy a coffee and a bite to eat in The Neighbourhood Coffee House. After a full day of talks and campus tours, settle into Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill for dinner and take the opportunity to chat through your favourite moments from the day. With Durham Cathedral, Durham Castle, the River Wear and the city’s independent shops all close by, Hotel Indigo Durham offers the perfect base for making the most of your university visit.
