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Old Durham Gardens is a historic and family-friendly public park nestled in Old Durham, just under a mile east of Durham City Centre in County Durham, England. This Grade II listed site, with an elevation of approximately 38 metres, offers a tranquil escape and a fascinating journey through over 350 years of history, from its Roman origins to its meticulously restored 17th-century design.
Visitors consistently praise the peaceful atmosphere and the beauty of these historic gardens. Many appreciate the blend…
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1. maj 2020
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Højdemeter 40 m
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Maks. vindhastighed: 13,0 km/h
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Yes, Old Durham Gardens is generally dog-friendly, especially in the lower gardens and orchards. It's a popular spot for walkers with their canine companions. However, please ensure dogs are kept on a lead and any mess is cleaned up to maintain the peaceful and clean environment for all visitors.
The lower gardens and orchards are largely accessible, offering relatively flat paths suitable for prams and wheelchairs. However, some areas, particularly the terraced gardens and paths leading to the gazebo, may involve steps or uneven surfaces. The best approach is often via the River Wear path or through Pelaw Woods, which are generally well-maintained for walking.
While the lower gardens and orchards are open to the public at all times, the upper walled garden and its 17th-century gazebo have restricted opening hours. They are typically open on Thursdays and Sundays from 2 PM to 4 PM, between April and October. It's managed by the Friends of Old Durham Gardens, so these times are subject to volunteer availability.
Old Durham Gardens itself does not have a cafe or refreshment facilities. However, its proximity to Durham City Centre means there are numerous cafes, pubs, and restaurants just a short walk away. Many visitors choose to bring a picnic to enjoy in the spacious lower gardens.
Autumn is a beautiful time to visit Old Durham Gardens with family. Children can enjoy exploring the changing colours of the trees in the orchards and surrounding woodlands. It's a great opportunity for nature walks, collecting fallen leaves, and spotting local wildlife. The nearby Old Durham Farm also offers a chance to see animals like pigs, llamas, and horses, which is always a hit with kids.
A leisurely stroll through the main areas of Old Durham Gardens, including the orchards and lower gardens, can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your pace and how much time you spend exploring. If you include the walk to and from Durham City Centre via the riverside or woodland paths, or spend time at the nearby farm, your outing could easily extend to 2-3 hours.
There isn't a dedicated playground directly within Old Durham Gardens. However, the open spaces of the lower gardens and orchards provide ample room for children to run around and play. For traditional playground equipment, you would need to venture into Durham City Centre or explore other local parks.
Old Durham Gardens, with its blend of cultivated areas and surrounding woodlands, is home to various birds, insects, and small mammals. Children might spot squirrels, different bird species, and butterflies, especially during warmer months. The adjacent Old Durham Farm also provides an opportunity to see farm animals up close.
The most convenient way to reach Old Durham Gardens by public transport with children is to take a bus to Durham City Centre. From there, it's a pleasant walk of less than a mile along the River Wear path or through Pelaw Woods to the gardens. This walk itself can be part of the family adventure.
Yes, Old Durham Gardens serves as an excellent starting point for several easy circular walks. You can combine a visit to the gardens with a loop through Pelaw Woods or along the River Wear. Many hikers enjoy a circular route that takes them from the city centre, through the gardens, and back, offering a mix of historical interest and natural beauty. These paths are generally well-maintained and suitable for families.
Old Durham Gardens stands out due to its remarkable 17th-century design, which has been faithfully restored and maintained, a rarity as many similar gardens were altered over time. Its historical layers, from a 2nd-century Roman villa site to its current form, offer a unique educational experience. The free entry, peaceful atmosphere, and adjacent Old Durham Farm with animals also contribute to its distinct charm as a family-friendly destination.