In Inspire, Family Fun, Attractions

Father’s Day 2025 lands on Sunday 15 June. Prime time for sunshine, fresh air, and making a bit of a fuss of your dad (as you should).

Whether he’s a sports fan, history buff, or professional potter-abouter, Durham is full of ways to give him a day that’s anything but ordinary.

Here’s a bumper list of brilliant things to do with your dad this Father’s Day:

man playing cricket at Durham BANKSHome Riverside stadium, Chester-le-Street

🏏 1. Catch Some T20 Cricket Action at BANKS Home Riverside

If your dad’s idea of a perfect Sunday involves sunshine, sixes and sausage rolls, grab tickets to a T20 match at Durham Cricket. The fast-paced games, buzzing atmosphere, and pitch-side pints make it a great shout for sporty dads — even if you don’t know your yorker from your googly.

Bonus: the stadium’s right by Chester-le-Street Riverside Park, so you can add a pre-match stroll or post-match pub stop.

EXCULSIVE DISCOUNT! Use code VCD25 when booking your tickets for only £2 per child and £10 per adult! Valid for all Durham Men & Women's T20 matches with exception of Yorkshire 20 June and Northants 18 July. 

Family of four sat admiring the wild deer at Raby Castle Deer Park

🏰 2. Explore a Grand Estate or Epic Attraction

Durham does big days out very well, especially if your dad likes a bit of history, machinery, or the odd bird of prey:

• Raby Castle, Park and Gardens – wander the parkland, explore the interiors, and grab a bite at The Plotters’ Forest or Yurt Café. On Saturday 14 and Sunday 15 June, Dads can enjoy free entry into Raby Castle with a Park and Gardens or Plotters’ Forest ticket and an accompanying child.

• Beamish Museum – transport your dad back in time at the award-winning open-air museum, with a Morris Car Rally on Father’s Day weekend!

• Auckland Palace – home to fascinating history, gardens, and a birds of prey experience that’ll impress even the grumpiest of dads.

Vintage train on the Weardale Railway line on a bright sunny day

🚂 3. All Aboard a Vintage Train Ride

If your dad loves heritage, history, or just the sound of a steam engine, take him for a nostalgic trip on one of Durham’s historic railways.

• Tanfield Railway is the world’s oldest railway, and it’s the perfect blend of engineering magic and countryside charm.

• Weardale Railway offers stunning views of the Durham Dales, and some trips include afternoon tea! 

Add a pint in a nearby pub after and you’ve just won Father's Day.

dad and his two teenage children enjoying afternoon tea at South Causey Inn

🍔 4. Father’s Day Sunday Roast (or Burgers & Beers)

Sometimes all your dad wants is great food and good company. Book ahead at one of Durham’s top Sunday roast spots or take him somewhere a little different:

• The Cellar Door – a treat with a view over the River Wear
• Lumley Castle Hotel – Sunday lunch with a side of medieval grandeur (and a pint in the dungeon bar if you're lucky).
• South Causey Inn – famous for hearty portions, cosy vibes, and top-tier roast dinners (and afternoon tea).

If he’s more burgers-and-beers than roast-and-regal, grab a booth at Tango and let him order all the sides.

group of people paddleboarding stood on the beach at Seaham.

🌊 5. Paddle, Pedal or Climb with Adventure Access

If your dad’s the outdoorsy type, Adventure Access at Seaham Harbour is the perfect way to shake up his Father’s Day.

Choose from paddleboarding or kayaking all with expert guides and stunning views of Durham’s dramatic coast. Whether he’s a seasoned adventurer or just up for something new, it’s a fun, active way to make some memories (and maybe get a little bit competitive).

family of four stood smiling at each other with High Force Waterfall in the background

🥾 6. Go on a Proper Walk (With a Pub at the End)

If your dad’s idea of heaven is a walk followed by a pint, you’re in the right county.
Try the Pennine Way for big views and open skies or head to Hamsterley Forest for a mix of peaceful woodland and challenging trails, or High Force Waterfall. 
Finish up at a local pub like High Force Hotel or The Rose and Crown in Romaldkirk - muddy boots welcome.

Family of four with back to camera looking at view from Prebends Bridge, Durham City

☕ 7. Brew Up a Day of Coffee and Culture in Durham City

Take it slow with coffee at a city favourite like Vennels Cafe, followed by a visit to Durham Cathedral, a riverside walk, or a potter around the museums like Durham University Oriental Museum. 

Bonus points if you surprise him with a slice of cake halfway round.

entrance to Dalton Park outlet shopping centre

🛍️ 8. Treat Him to a Shopping Spree at Dalton Park

If your dad loves a good deal (and who doesn’t?), take him for a mooch around Dalton Park Outlet and Outdoors. There’s everything from sports gear and tools to BBQ gadgets and chocolate. Pick up a gift or let him choose his own. 

man playing golf at Headlam Hall Hotel golf course.

⛳ 9. A Round of Golf (and a Bit of Peace and Quiet)

Perfect for dads who like their fresh air with a side of competition. Book a tee time at one of county scenic courses, like:
• Ramside Hall Golf Club – 36 holes and a spa if you’re tagging along.
• Brancepeth Castle Golf Club – historic and picturesque.
• Headlam Hall Golf Club – surrounded by stunning countryside.

View of Durham Regatta with rowing boats in the river wear, fairground rides and Durham Cathedral in background.

🚣 10. Soak Up the Atmosphere at Durham Regatta

If you’re in Durham City over the Father’s Day weekend, don’t miss the 192nd Durham Regatta (14–15 June 2025). One of the oldest rowing events in the UK. Expect riverside picnics, live entertainment, and plenty of rowing action. It’s a lovely way to spend a sunny afternoon, especially with an ice cream in hand.

🎁 Bonus Idea: Make a Weekend of It

Why stop at Sunday? Turn Father’s Day into a mini break with an overnight stay. From countryside inns to cool city hotels, there’s something to suit every type of dad — and every type of budget. 

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