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Count's House

4.2
·17 reviews·, United Kingdom

A quirky 1810 temple-like structure on the River Wear, linked to the dwarf Count Josef Boruwlaski. A unique historical curiosity.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Summer mornings

Pleasant weather for walks

CrowdLow
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Crowns Engine Houses

Count's House

Best Time

Spring & Summer mornings

Pleasant weather for walks

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A quirky 1810 temple-like structure on the River Wear, linked to the dwarf Count Josef Boruwlaski. A unique historical curiosity.

4.2
(17 reviews)

"Really cool quirky house with an interesting story."

Vertical photo
TIP

Curious about the interior?

Prepare to be surprised by how many people once lived here! :open_mouth:

Combine with a river walk

Enhance your visit with a stroll along the scenic River Wear. 🚶

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.2 · 17 reviews

Type

Historical Landmark

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Temple-Like Structure

The Temple-Like Structure

Riverside

A small, Greek temple-inspired building with a fascinating, unexpected history.

Count Josef Boruwlaski's Legacy

Count Josef Boruwlaski's Legacy

Information board

Learn about the famous Polish dwarf who once inhabited this unique riverside dwelling.

Riverside Views and Walks

Riverside Views and Walks

River Wear

Enjoy scenic views and pleasant strolls along the riverbanks adjacent to the house.

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Planning Your Visit

A Quirky Historical Gem

Discover Count's House, a unique 1810 structure with a surprising history tied to the dwarf Count Josef Boruwlaski. Though not a traditional house, its temple-like design and riverside location offer a glimpse into a peculiar past. Explore nearby walks and installations for a fuller experience.

Timing Your Visit

While Count's House itself is a quick visit, consider combining it with nearby river walks or Lumiere installations for a more engaging outing. Check local event listings for special exhibits that might enhance your experience.

Best Times

When
Spring & Summer mornings
Why
Pleasant weather for walks
Crowd
Low
When
During Lumiere festival
Why
Unique art installations
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Risky bathroom. I did it anyway. Luckily that frost stayed the whole time. Weirdest and coolest bathroom experience ever @countinghousenc highly recommend the Counting House in Durham NC. Such a cool restaurant with a great vibe and amazing food!! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻#bathrooms #bathroomsofinstagram #bathroomselfie
@themichellecunningham
4.8K likes • 193.8K views

Curious about the interior?

Prepare to be surprised by how many people once lived here! :open_mouth: Reddit

Combine with a river walk

Enhance your visit with a stroll along the scenic River Wear. 🚶 Reddit

Rich List - 5 Most Expensive Restaurants In Durham, NC #list #ranking #durham #northcarolina
@discoverymatt
1.7K likes • 47.8K views
Send this one to that “Calorie Counting” friend of yours! #NorthCarolina #919 #nccheck #fypシ #fyp #252 #704 #nctiktok #raleighnc #explorepage #durhamnc #visitnc #foodies #828 #foodchallenge #burgertok
@raleighfoodtrap
1.1K likes • 36.8K views

Check for Lumiere

See if your visit coincides with the Lumiere festival for special installations. ✨ Reddit

Historical context is key

Understand the story of Count Boruwlaski for a richer appreciation. 📜 Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

Curious about the interior?

Prepare to be surprised by how many people once lived here! :open_mouth: Reddit

Combine with a river walk

Enhance your visit with a stroll along the scenic River Wear. 🚶 Reddit

Check for Lumiere

See if your visit coincides with the Lumiere festival for special installations. ✨ Reddit

Historical context is key

Understand the story of Count Boruwlaski for a richer appreciation. 📜 Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.2
(17 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors find Count's House a 'quirky' and 'amazing little building' with an 'interesting story' tied to Count Josef Boruwlaski. Its riverside location and temple-like design are appreciated, though some note its state of disrepair and lack of funding. It's considered a nice historic landmark worth knowing about.

"Back in the day when I first started visiting Durham there use to be tour's around and this was a much loved attraction, sadly due to a lack of funding and care its starting to fall into ruin"

Dai P

"Strange building, information board , views of the river , good walks nearby"

ray haswell

"Really cool quirky house with an interesting story."

Michael

What People Like

Quirky historical building
Interesting Count Boruwlaski story
Riverside location

What People Dislike

Lack of funding/care
Small and not spectacular

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Count's House is located by the River Wear in Durham. It's accessible via walking paths along the river. If arriving by car, parking is available in Durham city center, followed by a walk to the site. Reddit

Durham city center has a main bus station and train station, both within walking distance of the river paths leading to Count's House. Reddit

Yes, there are cycle paths along the River Wear, making it a pleasant route for cyclists. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Count's House is a historical landmark and generally free to view from the outside. There are no admission fees. Reddit

As an external landmark, Count's House can be viewed at any time. However, access to the surrounding river paths may be limited by daylight hours. Reddit

There is no entrance fee to see Count's House. It's an open-air historical site. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can admire the unique temple-like architecture and read the information board detailing its history, particularly its connection to Count Josef Boruwlaski. The riverside setting is also a key feature. Reddit

A visit to Count's House itself is quite brief, likely taking around 15-30 minutes to view the exterior and read the information. Many visitors combine it with longer river walks. Reddit

There are no specific facilities directly at Count's House. Public restrooms are available in Durham city center. Reddit

Yes, the unique architecture and riverside location make it a picturesque spot for photography, especially during good weather or when illuminated during events like Lumiere. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Count's House is located near Durham city center, which offers a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and pubs. You can find options ranging from casual dining to more upscale experiences. TikTokReddit

The riverside area offers pleasant spots for picnics. It's advisable to check local regulations regarding picnicking in public spaces. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the unique Greek temple-inspired facade of Count's House, especially with the river as a backdrop. The surrounding riverside scenery also offers great shots. Reddit

Golden hour (early morning or late afternoon) can provide beautiful lighting for the exterior. During the Lumiere festival, it becomes a prime spot for night photography. Reddit

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Count's House (2026) – Best of TikTok, Instagram & Reddit Travel Guide