Dales Discoveries

Dales Discoveries

Discover amazing attractions around every corner on a tour through the Durham Dales, which offers some significant ‘firsts’.

• Gaze upon 17th century Spanish masterpieces at the UK’s first gallery dedicated to the history, culture and art of Spain’s Golden Age. The Spanish Gallery is an unexpected delight in the historic market town of Bishop Auckland.

• Learn how different faiths have shaped society over the last 6,000 years at the Faith Museum. Located in Auckland Castle, it is the first museum in England to explore the history of faith in Britain and Ireland.

• Enjoy striking art evoking life in Durham’s former coal mining communities at The Mining Art Gallery.

• Fall in love with European masterpieces, furniture, ceramics, clocks, textiles and more at The Bowes Museum, the north’s museum of art, fashion and design.

• Discover a destination with a difference at The Rising at Raby Castle. Think restored heritage buildings, reimagined walled gardens, exciting shopping experiences and a stylish new restaurant all against the backdrop of one of Europe’s finest medieval castles. Opening in 2024.

• Experience the nostalgia of a ride on Weardale Railway, an 18-mile stretch of heritage line through the breathtaking Durham Dales.

Did you know…

The Spanish Gallery, Mining Art Gallery and Faith Museum are all part of The Auckland Project, a unique collection of attractions, galleries, historic parkland and gardens centred around the stunning Auckland Castle in Bishop Auckland.

To request PDF copies of our Group Friendly itineraries please email us.

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Tour suggestions…

Half day:
Raby Castle
or
Weardale Railway plus
The Spanish Gallery, The Mining Art Gallery
or
The Faith Museum

Full day:
The Bowes Museum plus
The Spanish Gallery, The Mining Art Gallery
or
The Faith Museum
or
The Bowes Museum, plus Raby Castle

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Hotel suggestions…

Bowburn Hall Hotel

Park Head Hotel

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Useful information…

Coach travelling times:
The Bowes Museum to Bishop Auckland – 30 minutes
The Bowes Museum to Raby Castle – 20 minutes

SatNav:
Bowburn Hall Hotel DH6 5NH
Park Head Hotel DL14 8QB
Raby Castle DL2 3AH
The Bowes Museum DL12 8NP
The Auckland Project DL14 7PG
Weardale Railway DL13 2YS
(Stanhope Railway Station)

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