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    Study in Durham

    City guide

    With a whole city centre considered an area of special architectural or historic interest, Durham is an inspiring study location.

    It's a small and friendly city, with cobbled streets and lots of tucked away coffee shops. The cathedral and castle are in the centre of town, and the river runs around the city centre. There's a lot of green space around the city, including the Botanic Gardens which is free entry for students. Everywhere is walkable, so long as you can manage the hills! There is also a woodland behind Grey College, which is full of bluebells when you come back after Easter. Overall a very beautiful, rural, and safe city. (Second year student, Durham University)

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    • Carmen

      Durham University
      LLB Law (M101)
      Hey there! I'm Carmen, a second-year law student at Grey College (one of the best ones!). I'm originally from Malaysia, but I've fallen for Durham's charm and history. As a welfare officer at my college, I'm always here to lend an ear and create a safe space for everyone. I also juggle a part-time job at the uni, so I'd love to chat about balancing work and studies. Being an international student, I understand the challenges of adapting to a new culture. I also identify as disabled and queer, and I'm always open to sharing my experiences or offering support if needed. If you're up for a chat about life at Durham or uni life in general, I'd love to get to know you!

    • Guy

      Durham University
      MPhys Physics (F301)
      Hi I'm currently studying physics and hope to go into quantum computing! Ask me about: being from a state school, being in a band, learning totally new skills at uni, shoulder injuries, suffering for not taking further maths and playing sports casually at uni :)

    • Audrey

      Durham University
      BA English Literature (Q300)
      Hi! I'm Audrey, a year 2 English Literature student from Hong Kong. My college is St. Mary's, and I highly recommend it - most of the friends I've made here are from Mary's as well, the community is very nice in general (I'm currently involved in the Book Club, but there are so many more societies!), and the cherry blossoms are beautiful in the spring. I'm open to discussing anything about Durham, from adjusting to the teaching and learning methods from a non-A-levels background, to the collegiate system, to food and weather (it actually rains less than you think). I'm also one of the student representatives for the English Department, so feel free to approach me with any questions about the degree!

    • Emmanuel

      Durham University
      BSc Psychology (C800)
      Hi there! I'm Emmanuel, a lively 1st year at Stephenson College studying Psychological and Behavioural Sciences. Outside of the lecture hall, I love going to Christian Union and partaking in Enactus activities. You can always find me at Durham's Concert Band or Gospel Choir showcase too! I have really enjoyed my time at Durham so far and I am keen to answer any queries you may have!

    • Divya

      Durham University
      LLB Law (M101)
      Law student aspiring to be a solicitor-advocate at a full-service law firm, with a special interest in commercial law and legal services for individuals. International student born in India and brought up in Zambia. I have done in-depth research into Durham University when developing the 'Transition into Higher Education Course' that every first year receives. I aim to provide support for incoming students on any matters!

    • Alexandra

      Durham University
      BA Philosophy and Theology (VV56)
      Hi! I'm Alex and I'm in St Aidan's College studying philosophy and theology! I love all things musical theatre, reading, dance and cheer (alongside my academic interests of course)! I also have a huge passion ethics and plan to go into ethical advising when I leave University!

    • Charlotte

      Durham University
      MChem Chemistry (Industrial Project) (F111)
      Hi everyone! I'm Charlotte, a third year MChem student from Durham University. I'm interested in organic and medicinal chemistry, transition metal catalysis and drug development. I am hoping to pursue a career in the pharmaceutical industry after I have graduated. I have worked as a tutor and student mentor for the University so feel free to ask me anything related to chemistry, admissions to university, the collegiate system at Durham or any other questions you may have! 😊

    • Bella

      Durham University
      LLB Law (M101)
      I'm Bella - an undergraduate Law student who moved from Vietnam to Durham to start the next chapter of my life :). I'm both an international and home student (because both Vietnam and the UK are my homes) and spend most of my time exploring ways to contribute to things that I feel are greater causes! Feel free to ask me any Durham / course related questions :)

    • Harry

      Durham University
      MChem Chemistry (Industrial Project) (F111)
      Hi! I'm Harry and I'm a UG Chemistry student at Castle. I am an active member of Castle JCR, and I'm involved in numerous peer support projects here at Durham. I am the current president of the Disabilities and Carers Society and I rebuilt the Castle Pride Society from scratch, introducing the college's gender affirmation fund. I enjoy going to the gym and playing video games in my free time away from my degree. I am currently training for a half-marathon. I am hoping to transition to a career in engineering when I graduate, as I often work in this industry over my summers away from Durham. I initially started on biology and chemistry natural sciences and I now specialise in physical chemistry, I have taken a year out and transferred colleges so I have definitely taken the scenic route! I have academic specialism in computational chemistry and quantum mechanics, materials, and fluid chemistry. I remember how scared I was of applying to university and settling in, so please feel free to ask any questions about my course, or wider university life in general!

    • Javon

      Durham University
      BA Combined Honours in Social Sciences (LMV0)
      Hiya! I'm Javon :) Originally from Hong Kong, I've been living in the UK for about 2 years now. I'm a live-in student in University College (Castle), doing a flexible (and really cool!) Combined Honours course in Social Sciences, combining Politics, IR, Human Geography, Sociology, and learning French. Ask me anything about my course, college life, or just share any of your questions or concerns! #heretohelp

    • Crystal

      Durham University
      LLB Law (M101)
      Hiya, my name is Crystal and I am a third year law student at John Snow College! I am an aspiring barrister who loves debate and politics! Please feel free to reach out to me with any questions you may have about Law at Durham or any wider student experience queries :)

    • Emily

      Durham University
      LLB Law (M101)
      Hi! I’m a first-year student studying Law here at Durham University. I’m from Preston, Lancashire and I am a liver in at Stephenson College. I am a member of the Women in Law Society, the Horrible Histories Society and the DU Judo club. In my spare time, I love watching old 90s and 2000s Tv shows as well as cheesy romantic comedies with my flatmates! I’m really passionate about martial arts, especially Japanese Ju Jitsu which I have a brown belt in and I’m currently working towards my black belt with my club back home. My favourite thing about Durham University is the college system which is how I met my friends and course mates! After Durham, I’m hoping to become a solicitor in employment or family law.

    • Isabel

      Durham University
      MSci Earth Sciences (F644)
      Hi, I'm Isabel - I am a 4th year geophysics student within the department of Earth sciences. I am President of Collingwood College football club and vice-captain of Durham universities Women's 3s. Feel free to give me a message regarding anything Durham from course, colleges, sports, societies and about Durham itself!

    • Evie

      Durham University
      BA History (V100)
      Hi i´m Evie!! I´ve just completed my first year at Durham studying History. My college is St Cuthbert´s society and I am involved in my college´s cheerleading, volunteering, and fashion show. I come from a state school background and a very small village so would be happy to talk about adjusting to Uni life or anything else you want to chat about!

    • Bradley

      Durham University
      MPhys Physics and Astronomy (FF3N)
      I am a current Physics student at Durham University, originally from the Manchester area, who studied Maths, Physics and Computer Science at A-level. I have a keen interest in Astrophysics and Nuclear Energy in particular, and my future career aim is to have a role in either of these areas that involves programming and/or data analysis. I am a big football (Man United) fan, and I have also developed an interest in Formula One over the past few years.

    • Dara

      Durham University
      LLB Law (M101)
      Hi, I'm Dara and I am a law student at Durham aspiring to be a future lawyer but also studies finance and would not mind to have a career in that as-well. Feel free to ask me any questions!!!

    • Jasmine

      Durham University
      BA Sociology (L300)
      Hey! I'm in my first year at Durham and I study sociology with hopes of a career in HR. In taking an unorthodox route into the business sector I aim to use my sociological understanding of the world to dismantle prejudicial beliefs within corporations and strive for diversity and inclusion. Feel free to ask me any questions you may have regarding my course or university life at Durham.

    • Jacob

      Durham University
      BA Combined Honours in Social Sciences (LMV0)
      I am a Durham University student who studied the International Baccalaureate and GCSEs at Scarborough College in North Yorkshire. I am a First Year student studying Combined Honours in Social Sciences. I take modules in Economics, Politics and Spanish. I am a keen sportsman who plays for John Snow College Rugby team and also Team Durham. I am currently unsure about my future career but I am looking into various internships/schemes to gather a greater idea of what I would like to do. Please feel free to message me if you have any questions.

    • Erin

      Durham University
      MMath Mathematics (G103)
      Hi! I’m Erin, I study Maths and Statistics at Durham, specifically Josephine Butler College. I’m a part of Durham Student Theatre, through which I stage manage shows! If you have any questions about theatre, living in Durham, the collegiate system, Maths-based degrees at Durham, or anything else about Durham please reach out!

    • Ellie

      Durham University
      BA Philosophy, Politics and Economics (PPE) (VL52)
      Hey, I'm Ellie! I'm originally from Bournemouth, Dorset and I'm currently an enthusiastic PPE student at St. Aidan's College, Durham University. At A Level, I studied Politics, Biology, and Maths (I like to keep my options open!). After uni, I'm interested in working in the political sector. However, as I'm studying such a varied degree, I'd like to explore many possible avenues. Please feel free to reach out to me with any questions about my course, colleges or uni life!

    What Durham's famous for...

    Durham Cathedral

    A UNESCO World Heritage site with Durham Castle, the Romanesque Cathedral has a long history of providing sanctuary to fugitives who knocked on its doors.

    Durham Cathedral

    Durham nightlife, according to students

    A big misconception is that Durham has awful nightlife. Despite not having loads and loads of clubs, there is definitely something for everybody. Most clubs will have a specific night when they are busiest (e.g. Wiff Waff Mondays), and there are a lot of themed nights held throughout the term which are fun to go to with friends. (Second year student, Durham University)

    The Durham Regatta

    On the second weekend of June, thousands turn out to watch Britain’s second oldest regatta on the River Wear. ‘The Henley of the North’ goes back to 1834.

    Durham regatta

    Durham nightlife, according to students

    The nightlife is interesting: not your standard clubs, but you get used to it and it's nice seeing people you know there. You can easily move around clubs, and different nights have set clubs, which helps to switch it up a bit. Also, Newcastle is only 15 minutes on the train. But the main appeal of Durham is the cheap drinks in college bars. Many socials will do bar crawls along them, before the club. (Second year student, Durham University)

    Narnia

    Many believe that Durham’s idyllic scenery inspired C.S. Lewis’ beloved story, The Lion, The Witch, and the Wardrobe (at least partially). You can decide for yourself.

    River in Durham

    Student life in Durham

    Local gems, tips, and things to do, as recommended by students.

    Low on cash

    The cathedral is technically free, although a donation is preferred. For food, The Library bar does special offers on different days: my favourite is Wing Wednesdays, where it's 25p per wing. (Second year student, Durham University)

    Treat yourself

    You could treat yourself to coffee or breakfast at Flat White. Otherwise, go for a shopping spree in Newcastle, or get the train to York or even Edinburgh, if you fancy going further afield. (Second year student, Durham University)

    Friday night out

    If I go out on a Friday, it would generally be to Klute. Jimmy's is also quite popular, and free entry, however it does get quite packed. (Second year student, Durham University)

    Sunday chilling

    The best place to view the city is Observatory Hill. Everyone goes up there after the summer ball to see the sun rise at 5am! The Botanical Gardens are free for students. (Third year student, Durham University)

    When family visit

    The cathedral is fantastic for both kids and adults, especially when finished with a tea and scone at Cafédral. Every two years there is the Lumiere festival, where Durham becomes home to some amazing light and optical displays. (Durham University student)

    Feeling cultural

    The Gala Theatre is a great place to catch the latest movies, as well as some less well known films. Student entry is only £5. Most colleges will host their own cultural and music performances so you won't need to search very far to find something you're interested in. (Durham University student)

    Catch up with mates

    The Swan is a popular pub for students and locals, and has a no phones rule which can be nice. (Third year student, Durham University)

    Grab a bite

    Fat Hippo, a burger place with meat, veggie, and vegan options. It’s a North East special! The peanut butter burger is worth a try – sounds gross, actually delicious. (Durham University student)

    Durham in pictures

    View from Prebends Bridge

    The view from Prebends Bridge, with a rowing boat passing underneath in the shadow of Durham Cathedral. (Michael Crilly, second year student at Durham University)

    View from Prebends Bridge, Durham

     

    Palace Green 

    Palace Green, the square outside the cathedral and castle, in the snow. Woke up to see snow on the ground, and decided to go for an early morning walk before everyone started standing in it! Durham's a very pretty place to walk around. (Douglas Brown, second year student at Durham University)

    Durham Palace Green

     

    Living in Durham, according to students

    Gilesgate can be known as the uncool area to live in in Durham. As it is one of the furthest from the science site, students tend to dismiss it completely. However, if you do humanities and don't feel a need to be going to the science site every day (or you just enjoy a daily 25-minute walk), then this is a great location. It is relatively cheaper than more central accommodations, will be quieter, and will often offer bigger houses. It also has both a Sainsbury's and a Tesco Extra nearby, and other shops like Home Bargains, Matalan, [and] TK Maxx. Quite a lot of students also live in that area, so you won't be by yourself. (Third year student, Durham University)

    Observatory Hill

    This was taken on Observatory Hill, a popular student spot to visit in the summer and throughout the year. After Summer Ball, many students will come up here to watch the morning sunrise. (AT, Durham University student)

    Durham Observatory Hill

    Lumiere Festival

    A picture from Durham's bi-annual Lumiere Festival, where I had a lovely time looking at all the brilliant displays with my friends. (Jasmine Burgess, second year student at Durham University)

    Durham Lumiere Festival

    Living in Durham, according to students

    The Viaduct is a majority student area. It is a 20 to 25 minute-walk from the science site (where my lectures are), [and] five minutes from town, so very convenient for shopping. It is about average in terms of Durham house pricing – my house is just under £100 a week per person. The houses are quite old and pretty. There are lots of hills, but that’s true of anywhere in Durham. It’s also close to the bus station and train station. (Third year student, Durham University)

    Living in Durham

    Housing, travel, and budgeting tips.

    Where you'll find students

    • Gilesgate
    • The Viaduct
    • Claypath

    Local transport

    • Weekly ticket: £12
    • Arriva Durham Uni Plus Zone
    • Bus

    Student money tips

    College bars are really cheap, so if you're on a tight budget, stick to them. Spags is a great restaurant for dates or meals with friends – it's cheap and has really nice food with a good ambience. (Durham University student)

    The cost of living as a student soon adds up, us our budget calculator to find out roughly how much you'll need each month.

    ​Discover more savings on student life in Durham with UCAS student discounts. Find the latest deals, from fashion brands and eating fresh, to big discounts on tech and travel.

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