Durham has a habit of surprising people. It’s small, easy to get around and quietly beautiful, but it leaves a lasting impression. If you’re thinking about a UK break in the first few months of 2026, Durham is a city that really comes into its own once the pace slows down.
Away from the busier spring and summer months, the city feels calmer and more personal. Streets are easier to explore, tables are easier to book, and there’s time to notice the details that often get missed when places are at their busiest.
Seeing the City at a Slower Pace
One of the pleasures of visiting Durham early in the year is how walkable it feels. Everything sits close together, so you can wander without a plan and still stumble across something interesting. A walk along the River Wear is particularly rewarding at this time of year. The paths are quieter, the light softer, and there’s a sense of space that’s hard to find later in the season.
It’s the kind of city where slow travel comes naturally. You don’t need an itinerary packed with attractions. A few hours exploring riverside paths, historic streets and tucked-away corners is often enough to feel like you’ve really been somewhere.
Independent Shopping and Easy Wandering
Durham isn’t a city of vast shopping centres, and that’s part of the appeal. Instead, you’ll find a mix of familiar high-street names and independent shops scattered through the city centre. Bookshops, small boutiques and gift shops sit just off the main streets, rewarding anyone who takes the time to wander.
Visiting outside peak season makes the experience even better. There’s no rush, no crowds to navigate, and plenty of opportunities to stop for coffee along the way. It suits travellers who enjoy browsing rather than ticking things off a list.
Culture, History and Things to Do Indoors
Durham’s cultural life continues throughout the winter months. Durham Gala Theatre offers a varied programme of live performances, comedy and music, while exhibitions and talks across the city add interest on cooler days.
Museums such as the Oriental Museum are ideal for a slower afternoon, and for those happy to venture a little further, Beamish, The Living Museum of the North, remains a standout experience year-round. It’s an easy day trip and a fascinating way to explore the region’s history.
Food, Drink and Evenings Out
Despite its size, Durham has a food and drink scene that feels well considered rather than overcrowded. Independent cafés, traditional pubs and small restaurants are spread throughout the city, many within easy walking distance of each other.
Early in the year is a particularly good time to enjoy it. There’s more availability, a more relaxed atmosphere, and a sense that places have time for you, whether you’re stopping for lunch or settling in for a longer evening meal.
Staying at Hotel Indigo Durham
Where you stay can make a real difference to how a city feels, and Hotel Indigo Durham fits naturally into its surroundings. Set within a former university building, the hotel reflects the city’s academic heritage while offering modern comforts and thoughtful design.
Rooms are individually styled, with quality bedding, contemporary bathrooms and details that feel considered rather than generic. The location is ideal for exploring on foot, with the city centre, riverside walks and cultural venues all close by. Durham railway station is also within easy reach, making arrival simple.
The hotel is also home to Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill, which offers a relaxed place to eat and drink without needing to head back out into the city after a day of exploring.
A Good Time to Rediscover Durham
There’s something especially appealing about visiting Durham when things are a little quieter. Early 2026 offers the chance to experience the city without the crowds, to slow down, and to enjoy what makes Durham distinctive in the first place.
With its walkable centre, independent shops, cultural depth and sense of calm, Durham suits travellers looking for a more thoughtful kind of city break. And with Hotel Indigo Durham at its heart, it’s easy to feel settled from the moment you arrive.
