The eating scene in the traditional city of Durham is well established. Restaurants, cafes and tearooms alongside budget eateries with inexpensive pizza, pasts and bar meals.

The Aimshouse lies in the shadow of the cathedral, an inexpensive place with inventive bistro meals (closes at 8pm). Located towards the north of the centre is the Bistro 21, a short walk from the DLI Museum and the Durham Art Gallery (Closed Sundays). Situated in a converted farmhouse the restaurant does excellent British cuisine.

Emilio's is the city's Italian of choice, with the happy hour deals a real steal (closed Sun lunch). The Hide restaurant serves up a brunch throughout the day, with prices rising in the evening. At the heart of the Millenium Place lies the Kafe Gala, a great place for drinks, muffins and light meals. Open until 9pm the cafe is set in a lovely courtyard setting. The Vennel's in Saddler's Yard is also located in a courtyard setting (Saddler's Yard), good for drinks, sandwiches, quiches, pastas, the restaurant does close early (5pm), although the upstairs bar is open after 7pm.

The Numjal is an authentic thai restaurant specialising in seafood and veggie options. Although a rather expensive restaurant located within the Millburngate Centre. Shaheens is said to the best curry restaurant in town (closed Mon).

Durham is one of Britain’s better cities for eating out. Although it can’t quite challenge the likes of London, Bradford, Manchester – it does boast a variety of eating out diners. These are a mixture of Italian, Indian, Chinese, English and all the usual fast food outlets you’d expect. If you’re after a mouth-burning Indian than try the Rajpoot Tandoori, or, alternatively you could try the Chinese at Belmont.