The Riverside

Relatively new on the international cricket circuit, the Riverside hosted its first World Cup match in 1999 (Pakistan v Scotland) and its first Test match in 2003 (England v Zimbabwe). With impressive views of Lumley Castle, the ground is fairly exposed so bring a sunhat, plenty of sun cream and a sweater to prepare for the changeable English weather!

    Best spots for food and drink at the Riverside

     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     

    A post shared by REfUSE (@refusedurham) on

    There’s a wide range of food and drink stalls inside the ground. Head towards Front Street for REfUSE, a community ‘pay what you feel’ cafe dishing up inventive meals made from surplus food. For a more hearty bite to eat, try the family-run The Moorings for steaks, burgers and sandwiches. Feast on some of the best Italian food in the area at Deano’s Trattoria, popular for its warm service and generous portions.

    Best places to stay near the Riverside

     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     

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    Feel like royalty with a stay at the opulent Lumley Castle hotel. This restored 14th century castle with period interior offers spectacular views of the surrounding countryside, making for an unforgettable trip. If you prefer to stay somewhere more modern and budget-friendly, Hollycroft B&B is conveniently close to the Riverside Ground. A few miles outside Chester-le-Street, you’ll find the charming Chilton Country Pub and Hotel, a traditional pub with 25 comfy bedrooms. There are also plenty more hotel options in Durham, including familiar chains like Travelodge, Premier Inn and Radisson.

    Things to do near the Riverside

     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
     

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    Go for a relaxing walk along the River Wear towards Lumley Castle, then reward yourself to a scrumptious afternoon tea in the inner courtyard. 

    Visit the historically rich St Mary and St Cuthbert Church, where parts of the building are almost 1,000 years old. Next door is the Anker’s House Museum with displays on how hermits (also called ‘Ankers’) used to live in medieval times.

    The Riverside is also close to two major Durham attractions - the Durham Cathedral (part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site) and the open-air Beamish Museum which tells the story of life in north east England in the early 19th and 20th centuries.

    Chester-le-Street is 30 miles away from the North Pennines, a designated Area of Outstanding Beauty. Plan a day trip to this captivating area of England with its endless heather moors, waterfalls, woods and ancient meadows.

    Events near the Riverside Ground during the Men's Cricket World Cup

    There's a wide variety of events, festivals and activities taking place in Durham during the Cricket World Cup. View an interactive map of events (courtesy of This is Durham), or click the name of a specfic event below to find out more.

    Old King Coal at Beamish Museum - 26-30 June

    Food, Drink & Craft Festival at Crook Hall - 29 June

    Kynren, An Epic Tale of England - 29 June, 6 July, 13 July

    Getting to the Riverside

    By rail: The nearest train station is Chester-le-Street, served by a local train service. If you’re travelling from a major city, the closest station is Durham where you can catch the regional train to Chester-le-Street. There’s a regular shuttle bus service from Durham station to the ground on match days, so check the Riverside website before you travel.

    By bus: There are regular buses to Chester-le-Street from Newcastle, Durham and Sunderland. The buses usually stop at Market Place which is a 10-walk away from Riverside. Plan your journey at www.gonortheast.co.uk

    By road: Chester-le-Street is located on the A167 four miles outside Durham. The major road into Durham is the A1 – exit at junction 62 for easy access to the city. While you won’t be able to park in the residential areas around the ground, there will be extra parking arrangements for the World Cup.

    27 Mar 2020(last updated)