Durham Oriental Museum Guide & Reviews (2026)

Time Needed

1 - 2 Hours

Opened

1960

Best For

Ancient History & Asian Art

Address & Navigation

Located on the university campus, just a short walk up from the main city centre. For sat nav, use DH1 3TH.

Early Collections

The collection actually began as a teaching resource for Durham University students studying Eastern cultures, gathering impressive objects over many decades.

The Gulbenkian Gift

Thanks to a generous grant from the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation, the museum officially opened its dedicated building in 1960 to display the growing collection.

Global Recognition

Today, it is the only museum in the North of England devoted entirely to the art and archaeology of the great cultures of Northern Africa and Asia.

Admission Rates

Entry is completely FREE for everyone. No tickets or booking required – just turn up and enjoy. One of the best-value attractions in the UK.

Everyone Welcome

Free entry applies to all visitors – students, seniors, families, and locals alike. Bring your student ID or Art Fund pass for any special events if applicable, but standard admission is free.

Families

Children under 16 (and everyone else) get in entirely free of charge. Ideal for family days out in Durham.

WHO WILL LOVE IT

• History Buffs: The galleries cover millennia of human history, from Ancient Egypt to the Himalayas.
• Families: The museum goes out of its way to provide interactive worksheets and craft stations.
• Those seeking quiet: It is usually much more peaceful than the bustling Durham Cathedral area.

WHO MIGHT HATE IT

• Those who hate walking uphill: Elvet Hill is reasonably steep, so keep that in mind if mobility is an issue (though you can drive up).
• Thrill Seekers: If you are after modern, loud, highly interactive digital rides, this classical museum setting might feel slow.

The Mummy's Tomb

The Ancient Egyptian gallery is always a massive hit with children. Seeing a real mummy and learning about the afterlife rituals is fascinating.

Craft Stations

During school holidays, the museum frequently runs excellent, hands-on craft activities linked to the Asian and Egyptian collections.

Trail Guides

Ask at the front desk for their free family explorer trails. It gives the kids a fun objective as they walk around the exhibits.

🏜️ Egyptian Gallery

A fantastic display of ancient history, featuring intricately carved sarcophagi, amulets, and everyday objects from the time of the Pharaohs.

🐉 Chinese Collections

Home to beautifully delicate Ming dynasty porcelain, intricately carved jade, and stunning imperial textiles spanning thousands of years.

🌸 Japanese Art

A serene space showcasing traditional samurai armour, beautiful woodblock prints, and highly detailed lacquerware.

🟡 Weekday Mornings

School Groups. Mornings between Tuesday and Friday are popular for local primary school trips, so expect a lively atmosphere.

🟢 Weekday Afternoons

Peaceful Browsing. After 2:00 pm on a weekday is usually wonderfully quiet, allowing you to take in the galleries at your own pace.

🔴 Weekends

Steady Flow. The museum is busier on Saturdays and Sundays, especially during school holidays, but rarely feels overwhelmingly crowded.

🌿 Botanic Garden

🚶 5 mins
(A very quick stroll on the university campus)

⛪ Durham Cathedral

🚶 20 mins
(Requires walking down Elvet Hill and up the peninsula)

🚆 Durham Train Station

🚶 30 mins
(Better to catch a short taxi or local bus if arriving by rail)

Elvet Area

Staying near Old Elvet puts you at the bottom of the hill, offering an easy walk to both the museum and the historic city centre.

City Centre

Perfect for accessing restaurants, the Cathedral, and the Castle, though you will need to walk up Elvet Hill to reach the museum.

Neville's Cross

A slightly quieter, residential area to the west of the city. It provides straightforward road access to the university campus.

Nearest Car Parks

Parking in central Durham can be a nightmare, but the Oriental Museum is incredibly accommodating for drivers:

• Museum Car Park: The museum has a dedicated visitor car park directly outside the entrance. You must register your vehicle registration inside at the desk to avoid a fine.
• Howlands Park and Ride (DH1 3TQ): If you plan to spend the whole day exploring Durham, parking here is brilliant. You can easily walk to the museum, and then catch the bus into the city centre later.
• On-Street Parking: Some limited pay-and-display parking is available on surrounding residential streets, but restrictions are strict.

Accessible Blue Badge parking bays are available right by the main entrance.