Duriavenator is a theropod dinosaur genus that once inhabited what is presently known as England, during the Middle Jurassic period, approximately 168 million years ago. It's estimated to have measured between 5 to 7 meters (16 to 23 feet) in length and weighed about 1 ton (2,200 pounds), categorizing it as a medium-sized theropod.

Duriavenator stands out due to distinctive features found in its maxilla, the principal bone of its upper jaw. Notably, it features a deep groove on the upper surface of the jugal process, along with numerous pneumatic (air-filled) foramina or openings. Additionally, small foramina are present on the lower part of the surface, connecting with the premaxilla, which is the front bone of the upper jaw. The elongated teeth at the front of the lower jaw were likely employed for grasping and plucking food during feeding.

Duriavenator's fossil record is associated with the Upper Inferior Oolite Formation, which dates to the Bajocian stage within the Middle Jurassic. As a megalosaurid, it would have had a robust build, characterized by a large, low head, short and stout lower arms, and a broad and shallow pelvis.

Based on its teeth, relatively weak bite, strong arms and narrow snout, it is thought that Duriavenator was an ambush predator that relied on the element of surprise when hunting prey.