Prince Bishop River Cruises

Prince Bishop River Cruises

If you’re looking for a relaxing way to see one of the most beautiful cities in the country from a totally different angle, you’ll love this boat trip. It’s a gentle, scenic hour-long cruise along the River Wear in Durham. You get some of the absolute best views of the Cathedral, the Castle, and the city’s historic stone bridges that you just can’t get from the footpaths.

What to Expect and Enjoy
The trip is very laid-back. Most people go for the sightseeing cruise which lasts about an hour. You’ll hear a live commentary from the captain, which is usually quite witty and packed with local history—perfect if you want to learn a bit without it feeling like a school lesson!

• Views: Keep your camera ready for the Cathedral views as you glide under the bridges.
• Onboard Comfort: The boat has twin decks, including an open-air top deck for sunny days and a heated lower deck if the weather turns.
• Refreshments: There is a licensed bar on board for drinks and light snacks, which definitely adds to the holiday vibe.
• Families: It’s a big hit with families because kids often get a kick out of the “on-board” ticket office where they can pay as they board.

Good to Know

• Average Visit: Expect to spend about an hour on the water, but allow a little extra time for boarding.
• Who is it for? It’s great for everyone—families with young children, couples on a romantic break, and seniors looking for a comfortable way to sightsee.
• Accessibility: The boat generally offers disabled access and has toilets on board.
• Timing: They usually operate from early April through to the end of October, though it’s always worth a quick check as they can sometimes have private bookings or vary times based on visitor numbers.

Location and Practicalities

• County: County Durham
• Postcode: DH1 3AF
• Parking: The boat departs from near Elvet Bridge, right behind the Prince Bishops Place shopping centre. There is a multi-storey car park right there (Prince Bishops Car Park), which is very convenient but can be on the pricier side for a long stay.
• Discounts: Keep an eye out for family tickets or senior citizen rates which are usually available. Sometimes you can find “early bird” offers for special evening events or soul/party boat nights.

Nearby Highlights to Combine
Since you’re already right in the heart of the city, you can easily make a full day of it:

• Durham Cathedral & Castle: Just a short, steep walk up from the river. They are UNESCO World Heritage sites and absolutely “must-sees.”
• Riverside Walk: If the weather is nice, there’s a lovely wooded path along the riverbanks that you can explore after your cruise.
• Food & Drink: You’re spoilt for choice nearby. There are plenty of cafes and bars overlooking the river near Elvet Bridge, or you can head into the Market Place for more traditional pubs and hidden gem eateries.
• Rowing Boats: If you’re feeling more energetic, you can hire traditional wooden rowing boats from the same area to explore the river at your own pace