Oriental Museum in Durham: photos, reviews

About

In the charming and historic city of Durham lies the Oriental Museum, a well-designed attraction offering a deep dive into history. Since its founding in 1960, it has captured the imaginations of countless visitors with its meticulously curated exhibitions. Wander through its well-renovated halls, where you'll find artifacts spanning from the Neolithic era to modern times, each with engaging explanations that bring the distant past to life.

Known for its interactive activities, the museum invites you to participate in musical sessions, savor a traditional tea-drinking experience, or even don Chinese court garments. Families and children will find plenty to do, with coloring areas, games, and a Playmobil station that promise hours of fun.

A highlight of the museum is its poignant photography and relic exhibits from the Hiroshima and Nagasaki nuclear explosions, alongside the adventure-filled narratives of attempts on Everest. The friendly and knowledgeable staff ensure a pleasant experience, while accessibility features like lifts across all four floors and free parking with disabled bays make it welcoming for all.

After exploring, visitors can relax in the coffee shop or browse unique finds in the gift shop. Entry is free, with donations gladly accepted to support ongoing exhibitions and activities. Celebrating events such as the New Lunar Year with a range of activities, the Oriental Museum is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and curious minds alike.

Recommended visit time

2-3 hours

Features

Wheelchair accessible, Suitable for children, Free parking, Wheelchair accessible parking, Wheelchair accessible entrance, Wheelchair accessible toilet, Toilet

How to get here?

The nearest public transport options for your convenience.

South College

Bus stop 268 m walk

South Road Colleges

Bus stop 169 m walk

Mount Oswald

Bus stop 490 m walk

Howlands Park and Ride

Bus stop 369 m walk

Mount Oswald The Drive

Bus stop 444 m walk

South Road

Bus stop 339 m walk

4.7

based on 756 reviews

Google

4.7/5 756 reviews

Marian Hope Centre Stockton

I visited the Oriental museum in Durham City yesterday because I have had a carved wooden bowl and lid which has always puzzled me. Inside, on the wall of the bowl is a tiny raised something that seems to be a lizard when I look at it with a magnifying glass. The staff were as puzzled over the little figure as I was but agreed it is Indian . While I didn't get an answer to my puzzle, I did discover an amazing museum with 4 looks, each one devoted to a different area of Oriental artefacts and historical items. I found it a great place to see the similarities and differences of design across the regions. A really worthwhile visit - and No charge for entry. Sadly I didn't take photos this time but I plan to go again.

MammyAlex L

A few years ago I think it was that place it was like smaller than Aldi me fam didn't like it because how small it was so we left.

Cathie Stark

Love the place and it's free! From Asian collections to Egypt.. Good for little ones too and wheelchair accessible.

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Oriental Museum in Durham

About

Recommended visit time

Features

How to get here?

Reviews and Ratings