Durham University Botanic Garden

Durham University Botanic Garden covers around 25 acres on the southern edge of the city, off South Road, and combines mature woodland, formal beds, glasshouses and themed collections. Founded in 1970 as a resource for teaching and research, it is now open to the public and offers a peaceful counterpoint to the historic city centre.

The garden's collections are arranged as a series of contrasting landscapes. You'll find a North American Arboretum with sequoias and other West Coast conifers, a Himalayan valley planted with rhododendrons and magnolias, alpine and woodland beds, and a bamboo grove. The tropical and cactus houses shelter carnivorous plants, orchids and desert species, while outdoor sculpture is placed throughout the grounds.

There is a visitor centre with a small cafe, and paths are gently graded so most of the garden is accessible. It's a good place for a slow wander of an hour or two, and a particularly rewarding stop in spring for the rhododendrons or in autumn for the tree colour.