What you need to know about money in Durham

Evan Kingsley wrote on 9/24/2023. Last updated: 11/10/2024

What Currency Does Durham Use Now

Using ATM machine
A person is captured in the process of withdrawing money from an automatic teller machine (ATM).

Well, pack your bags and brace for an adventure because we're off to the delightful city of Durham! Ensconced in the heart of North East England, Durham operates on the pound sterling (£), much like the rest of the United Kingdom. But worry not, my fellow explorers, exchanging currency is as simple as reeling off a limerick! You can do it at the airport, a bank, or even at your hotel desk.

Credit and Debit Cards in Durham

Now, onto the modern magic of plastic money! In Durham, credit and debit cards are as accepted as warm tea on a cold English afternoon. Visa and MasterCard are the most widely favoured, with many places accepting American Express too.

Heading off to a quaint little B&B, a buzzing local pub, or a gourmet restaurant? Rest assured, your cards will feel as welcome as Durham's iconic landmark, the Durham Cathedral, on the city's skyline.

Using Cash in Durham

Person using ATM
A close-up view of an individual withdrawing money from an automated teller machine (ATM), emphasizing the convenience of banking technology.

Although the comforts of cards are largely embraced by the Durham-ites, there's a certain charm to jangling coins and crisp paper notes, isn't there? Cash is especially handy at smaller establishments, local markets, or the occasional stall selling irresistible homemade fudge!

There's something delightful about the feel of cold hard cash, and in Durham, it's always good to keep a couple of pound notes handy. You never know when you might need to tip a helpful hotel porter or reward yourself with a delectable scone from a quaint little bakery tucked away in a cobblestone alley.

ATMs in Durham

Staying flush has never been easier! With ATMs scattered generously across Durham, you’ll rarely be more than a stone's throw away from some sterling. Oh, and good news for night owls! Many of these machines operate round the clock, ensuring you're never without a pound or two at any hour!

However, do check with your local bank about any associated ATM fees. Some out-of-network ATMs can come with transaction charges that, although not as terrifying as Durham's famed ghost walks, can deliver an unwanted surprise.

Bank Hours

Last but not least, during your stay in Durham, you might need to pop into a bank for some reason or the other. Typically, banks operate from 9am to 4pm, Monday through Friday. Some banks also offer Saturday hours, generally between 9am and 1pm. But remember, all good adventurers check ahead – so, call ahead to confirm your bank’s working hours so your journey remains a smooth sail!

So, gear up, explorers! With the magnificent Durham castle awaiting your visit and the convenience of modern banking at your fingertips, you're set for an unforgettable adventure in Durham!


Evan Kingsley

Evan Kingsley

Hey, I’m Evan! Even though I’ve been bitten by a piranha, left stranded in the Sahara when my camel ditched me, and even spent a night in a Bhutanese jail over a supposedly stolen fruit (I swear I didn’t take it!), I still love traveling so much I don’t think I’ll ever stop. With over 130 countries under my belt, I’m always on the lookout for the next wild adventure… hopefully with fewer bites, camel betrayals, and misunderstandings over fruit!

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