Rent a Motorhome in Durham and Discover North East England
Start your unforgettable road trip from the historic heart of North East England. When you rent a motorhome in Durham, you unlock the freedom to explore ancient castles, stunning coastlines, and wild national parks at your own pace. With a camper from Campcruisers, your adventure begins the moment you turn the key. Find the perfect vehicle and rent a camper in Durham today!
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Discover Durham: A Historic Gem in North East England
Welcome to Durham, a captivating city in the heart of North East England, and the perfect starting point for your next adventure. If you're looking to rent a motorhome Durham, you've chosen a location steeped in history and surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. Geographically, Durham is uniquely positioned on a rocky peninsula carved out by the River Wear, creating a dramatic and defensible setting that has shaped its history.
The city's story is rich and profound, dating back to AD 995 when monks fleeing Viking raids settled here, bringing with them the body of St. Cuthbert. This led to the construction of the magnificent Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle, which together form a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For centuries, the region was governed by powerful Prince-Bishops, who wielded both religious and secular power, leaving an indelible mark on the city's architecture and character. This history is palpable as you walk the cobbled streets, making it an inspiring place to begin your journey. The decision to rent a camper Durham allows you to immerse yourself in this heritage before venturing further afield.
With a city population of around 50,000, Durham maintains a charming, intimate feel, yet it's a vibrant and cosmopolitan place, thanks in large part to Durham University, one of the oldest and most prestigious in the UK. This brings a youthful energy, excellent cafes, pubs, and cultural events to the city. Durham has also been associated with notable figures, including author Bill Bryson who served as the university's Chancellor, and it has inspired countless artists and writers. The experience of picking up your vehicle when you rent a motorhome Durham is enhanced by the friendly and welcoming atmosphere of the city.
Regarding the climate, Durham experiences a temperate maritime climate. Summers are mild, with average temperatures around 18-20°C (64-68°F), while winters are cool and damp. The best time for your road trip is between May and September, when the days are longer and the weather is most favorable for exploring the great outdoors. This is the peak season to rent a camper Durham and discover the nearby Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty like the North Pennines or the stunning Northumberland coastline.
Attractions and Activities In and Around Durham
Once you've settled into your vehicle, your exploration can begin. Your decision to rent a motorhome Durham gives you a fantastic base to discover a wealth of attractions both in the city and the surrounding region.
Durham Cathedral and Castle: You simply cannot visit Durham without exploring this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Cathedral is a masterpiece of Norman architecture, famously described by Bill Bryson as "the best cathedral on planet Earth." Climb the central tower for panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside. The adjacent Durham Castle, now part of Durham University, offers guided tours that provide a fascinating glimpse into its past as a fortress and home of the Prince-Bishops.
The River Wear: The river that encircles the historic core offers beautiful walking paths and the opportunity to see the city from a different perspective. You can hire a traditional rowing boat for a relaxing afternoon on the water, a perfect way to unwind after your drive.
Beamish, the Living Museum of the North: Just a short drive from Durham, this world-famous open-air museum brings the history of North East England to life. Your journey after you rent a camper Durham should definitely include a stop here. Ride a tram through a 1900s town, go down a drift mine, and experience life in different eras. It's an unforgettable day out for all ages.
The Durham Dales and High Force Waterfall: Head west in your campervan into the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This landscape of moorland, valleys, and picturesque villages is home to High Force, one of the most spectacular waterfalls in England, where the River Tees plunges 21 meters over a cliff edge. There are numerous walking trails and quaint pubs to discover.
Durham University Botanic Garden: For a more tranquil experience, visit this beautiful 10-hectare garden on the city's outskirts. It features collections of plants from around the world, including an alpine garden, winter garden, and tropical glasshouses. It's a perfect spot for a peaceful walk. Whether you are looking for history, nature, or culture, you'll find it all when you rent a motorhome Durham.
Unforgettable Road Trips Starting from Durham
With your keys in hand, the open road calls. When you rent a camper Durham, you are perfectly placed for some of the UK's most scenic road trips. Here are a couple of ideas to get you started:
🏰 The Northumberland Coast & Castles Tour (3-4 Days)
This route takes you along one of England's most dramatic coastlines, designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. It's a journey filled with ancient castles, windswept beaches, and charming fishing villages.
Day 1: Durham to Bamburgh
Head north from Durham towards the coast. Your first major stop is Alnwick Castle, famous for its role as Hogwarts in the Harry Potter films. Explore the magnificent State Rooms and beautiful gardens before continuing to the coastal village of Bamburgh. Park your camper and marvel at the imposing Bamburgh Castle, perched on a volcanic outcrop overlooking a vast, sandy beach.
Day 2: The Holy Island of Lindisfarne & Seahouses
Check the tide times before driving across the causeway to the Holy Island of Lindisfarne, a serene and historic site. Explore Lindisfarne Priory and Castle. In the afternoon, drive to Seahouses and take a boat trip to the Farne Islands to see puffins (in season) and a large grey seal colony.
Day 3: Dunstanburgh Castle and Return
Hike the beautiful coastal path from the village of Craster to the dramatic ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle. Enjoy some famous Craster kippers before beginning your leisurely drive back towards Durham, filled with memories of the coast.
⛰️ The Durham Dales & North Pennines Explorer (2-3 Days)
Discover the wild beauty of the North Pennines AONB, a landscape of sweeping moorlands, deep valleys, and rich industrial heritage. A 4x4 camper mieten Durham would be ideal for some of the smaller roads here, but any camper will manage the main routes.
Day 1: Durham to High Force and Teesdale
Drive west into the heart of the Durham Dales. Your destination is High Force Waterfall, one of England's most impressive natural sights. After visiting the waterfall, explore the pretty market town of Barnard Castle, with its famous Bowes Museum and the castle itself. Find a scenic campsite in Teesdale for the night.
Day 2: Weardale and the Roof of England
Follow the scenic B6277 road north from Middleton-in-Teesdale towards Alston, one of the highest market towns in England. This drive takes you over the dramatic, open moorlands of the North Pennines. Stop at the Killhope Lead Mining Museum to learn about the area's industrial past before descending into Weardale. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful scenery before heading back to Durham.
Returning Your Motorhome Clean in Durham
After an amazing trip, it's time to think about returning your vehicle. Part of the rental agreement is to return the motorhome with a clean interior. For the exterior, it’s good practice to give it a wash, especially after travelling on country lanes. The main challenge is the height of the vehicle, as most automatic car washes are too low.
Your best option is to find a jet wash station that has open-air bays with no height restrictions. This allows you to control the pressure washer and clean the campervan safely. When you rent a motorhome Durham, planning this final step makes the return process smooth and easy.
Here are a few suitable locations in or near Durham. Always check the height clearance on-site before entering any wash bay.
1. IMO Car Wash Durham
This location often has manual jet wash bays alongside its automatic wash, which are suitable for larger vehicles. It's conveniently located for easy access.
Address: Durham Road, Chester Moor, Chester-le-Street, DH2 3RJ
2. BP Service Station Carrville
Many BP stations are equipped with high-pressure jet wash facilities that are open-air and perfect for cleaning a motorhome. This one is located just off the A690 with easy access to the A1(M).
Address: High Street, Carrville, Durham, DH1 1LU
3. Tesco Extra Hand Car Wash
The hand car wash services located in large supermarket car parks, like at Tesco Extra, are often able to accommodate larger vehicles and motorhomes. It is always best to confirm with the staff on site before proceeding.
Address: Dragonville Retail Park, Durham, DH1 2RS
Taking a few minutes to clean your camper after you rent a camper Durham ensures a hassle-free handover and concludes your fantastic trip on a positive note.
Your Journey to Durham: How to Get Here
