Seven unmissable things to do this February half term in Durham

There’re so many things to do and places to explore during February half term in Durham. To help you choose, we’ve picked seven of the county’s most exciting events and family-friendly activities you can enjoy happening across the county during the school holidays. 

Be amazed by time travelling magicians Morgan & West at the Gala Theatre, Saturday 15 February

Expect explosive thrills and electrifying experiments, as Morgan and West bring their family friendly science extravaganza - Unbelievable Science to Durham City! A must-see event for all budding scientists. 

Celebrate Beamish Museum’s 50th Birthday, 15 – 23 February

2020 is a big year for Beamish The Living Museum of the North as it marks the museum’s Golden Jubilee. Join the celebrations this half term with special birthday parties and games happening across the museum every day of half term.

Follow the flame lit trail at Fire and Ice InDurham, 21 – 22 February

Journey through time as you follow the flaming trail around the cobbled streets of city, to discover incredible hand-carved ice sculptures, live demos and interactive displays all inspired by time travel. Plus each evening be amazed by the spectacular finale show featuring music, fire, dancing water and lighting.

Get outdoors and explore at Bowlees Visitor Centre, open every day during half term 10am – 4pm 

Bowlees Visitor Centre is the perfect place to start exploring the Durham Dales and North Pennines AONB, with the magical Gibson’s Cave and the roar of Low Force Waterfall only a short walk away. You’ll find lots of family-friendly trails to follow, wonderful wildlife to spot and activities to join including Wild Wednesday on 19 February. Where you can enjoy nature-based activities in the wintery woodlands surrounding Bowlees. 

Put your building skills to the test at LEGO®: Building The Bowes Museum, open daily 10am – 5pm

Experience The Bowes Museum like never before, as you follow an exciting lego® themed trail around the museum, where you’ll discover 15 of the museum’s most loved objects transformed into lego®. There’s also plenty of opportunity to build your own lego® creations. A definite “must-visit” for all lego® fans, young and old. But be quick the exhibition closes Sunday 23 February.  

Spot the signs of Spring at Durham University’s Botanic Garden, every day throughout February 10am – 4pm

Pick up a spotter sheet and see what you can discover as you explore the Botanic Garden’s wonderful woodlands and rolling gardens filled with plants from around the world. You’re certain to find something new around every corner. 

Take a train ride on the world’s oldest railway Tanfield Railway, Sunday 16 and 23 February 

Travel through three miles of beautiful countryside in the historic Vale of Durham onboard a lovingly restored steam engine. Take your seat in the recreated colliery carriage, hop off at Causey Station to walk across Causey Arch (the world’s oldest railway bridge) or get up close to engineering work at the Marley Hill engine shed. And best of all throughout February kids travel for a quid!

These events and activities are just some the incredible things you and your family can enjoy in Durham. To see more February half term events click here >>