Since the 1900's Brown's Rowing Boats has been the place to hire a rowing boat. Our traditional hand built rowing boats are available for a leisurely row along the River Wear in the heart of Durham City. Whether it's a treat for all the family or a romantic afternoon with your partner, hiring a row boat is a great way to enjoy the wonderful surroundings of Durham.

Enjoy the tranquility of the river with nothing but the sound of oar blades dipping in the water, if you are lucky you might see herons in their natural habitat. The Prince Bishop River Cruiser offers cruises with spectacular views of historic Durham City plus evening cruises with a difference twelve months of the year.

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Reviews (9)

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Ben Hersko

Aug 18, 2021

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Lots of fun
It was nice weather and not too busy so that made it even more pleasant
The staff are helpful and nice and take their time in giving a safety orientation as well as ensuring you board safely
The only point I will make is that you are charged per person as opposed to per boat which can make it a little expensive if you have a large family going on one boat, but overall it isn't a terribly expensive activity
The parking, well it is Durham and it seems like they hate cars here, so unless you wanna pay the congestion charge you will need to walk a little bit
Don't follow Google maps

Morgan Thomas

Jun 30, 2021

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Really good experience trying out the rowing boats down the river, reasonably priced for an hour out on the water, given some enthusiasm from the rowers, you can easily make it to the 3rd bridge along from where you start off. As others mention in reviews you do have to watch out for other rowers who tend to veer off course into your path.

Anjana Silva

Dec 11, 2019

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Nice and reasonable Boats hiring place in the Durham along River Wear. Very reasonable prices and lovely customer service. I would definitely recommend Browns Rowing Boats. Thank you.

Michael Grave

Jul 01, 2019

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Lovely row on R Wear in Durham. Lovely scenery, views of the Cathedral and a Kingfisher. We hire these boats several times each year. The Brown's team are very Safety conscious.

Janis Swann

Dec 03, 2018

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Went on the river cruise, guide was very informative. Lovely sailing down the river in the sun with a nice cold glass of wine. Well worth the money.

Craig

Sep 06, 2018

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Absolutely amazing- loved it! It was brilliant! My partner rowed most of it and loved it to. There were plenty of couples doing the same as us and enjoying a romatic boat ride down the water. Will definitely be going again!

Ryan Smurthwaite

Jun 29, 2018

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It was brilliant, quick service and they're willing to help if you don't know your way round a boat. Probably some of the best fun I've had in a while

Faine Dovaston

Jan 28, 2018

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Very fun, enjoyable experience, we were on s boat named holly - I like that the boats are named. The staff are very informative. Be aware of other boats with people who aren't good at rowing but all in all, very fun

Anthony Prymack

Jul 20, 2017

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This would have been a five star experience except out boat Holly had some minor imperfections. Even with a big lineup it only took 15 minutes to get on during a sunny day. There are a lot of inexperienced people on the boats so don't worry if you look awkward and unskilled.