A city in the northeast of England has been named as one of the cheapest places in the country to buy a house with average prices under £140k
If you’re thinking of relocating to save money, a university city in England has the cheapest house prices but is also steeped in history with a UNESCO-listed castle, cathedral tower and tree-lined river.
House prices have been rising in the UK for years and buying a home remains one of the most expensive things you will ever do. With the cost of living crisis showing no signs of slowing, many are struggling to keep up with their current mortgage payments and could be considering relocating to a cheaper area than they currently live. Average house prices in the UK last year rose to £293,000, according to government statistics. However there are towns and cities in the country where you can purchase a property for a lot less.
In its list of the cheapest places to live in the UK, u homes placed Durham in northeast England in the top spot. As well as house prices they looked at the cost of living in each area. “Durham is widely acknowledged as the least expensive place to live in the UK and has the most affordable living expenses in 2024,” it stated. In November 2024, the Office for National Statistics found that the average house price in County Durham was £139,000, while private rent averages stood at £584 per month.
Although it’s a cheap place to live and buy property, Durham, situated south of Newcastle, also offers its residents and visitors much more. It is steeped in history, having been founded by William the Conqueror and still maintains much medieval grandeur. There are many castles and palaces in the city, including the impressive Raby Castle, which was built in the fourteenth century.
Local tourism website thisisdurham says: “Today visitors can experience this incredible medieval fortress, set within the picturesque parklands where both red and fallow deer roam. The elegant leisure destination has recently gone through an incredible restoration project opening up the 18th century Walled Garden which has been recently remodelled by renowned garden designer Luciano Giubbilei with Lady Barnard. Together, they have laboured to create a stunning 5-acre vision, including the estate’s well-known yew hedges and the iconic Raby fig.”
Durham Castle is part of a UNESCO world heritage site and has been occupied continuously since the 11th century. Its current residents are the students of University College, part of Durham University. Visitors are still able to enjoy the museum and collections on guided tours.
The university itself is located south of the tree-lined banks of the River Wear, which circles the cathedral. As well as a Botanic Garden, visitors are welcome to enjoy the artifacts in the Oriental Museum. More beautiful gardens and a maze can be found at Crook Hall – a 13th century mansion. Durham is surrounded by a stunning landscape of fields and moorland and hill farming is still a huge part of rural life. Regular farmers markets showcase food and drink from local producers and the farm shops are the perfect place to pick up tempting homemade treats. Foodies can enjoy a wide range of restaurants in Durham from the stylish eateries in top hotels to a traditional fare in local pubs.
Have you ever visited Durham? What did you think? Let us know in the comments below.
