We’ve rounded up 12 amazing outdoor days out for kids that will have your little ones climbing, splashing, discovering and smiling from ear to ear.

Bored kids? Not in Durham! From wild waterfall walks to forest trails, farm fun, and water sports, Durham is bursting with brilliant outdoor days out for families this summer. Whether you’ve got toddlers with buckets of energy or teens who need coaxing off screens, this is your go-to guide for making memories in the fresh air.

Here are 12 of the best outdoor adventures for kids in Durham – screen-free, sunshine-filled (or even a bit of rain), and unforgettable.

1. Discover the Durham Heritage Coast

Stretching from Seaham to Crimdon, the Durham Heritage Coast is a wild and wonderful playground of clifftop walks, hidden coves, rock pools, and wildflowers. Kids can explore the beach at low tide, hunt for sea glass at Seaham, or spot birds and butterflies on the coastal paths.

2. Explore Hamsterley Forest’s Trails and Play Areas

This vast forest in the Durham Dales is packed with bike trails, adventure play areas, wild streams, and Gruffalo sculptures. Kids can climb, splash, build dens, or tackle the Stick Man activity trail. It's a real winner for energetic families.

Top tip: Hire bikes on-site or bring your own, even balance bikes are welcome.

Location: Hamsterley Forest, Bedburn, DL13 3NL

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3. Splash Out with Adventure Access

Take your beach day to the next level with Adventure Access, who offer paddleboarding or kayaking suitable for families with children aged 6+. Whether at Seaham Harbour Marina or in Durham City by Canoe, their certified instructors lead everything from taster sessions to summer camps.

Adventure Camp: A brand-new summer programme for 8 - 16 year-olds, combining kayaking, SUP, beach challenges, and games. Kids are dropped off for a supervised & energetic afternoon at Seaham 

Durham City by Canoe: A peaceful paddle along the River Wear, from city views to countryside scenery. This is an immersive way to enjoy the historic cathedral and riverside wildlife.

Location: The Castleside, Seaham Harbour Marina, Seaham, SR7 7EY

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4. Uncover Waterfall Wonders at Low Force & Bowlees Visitor Centre

Low Force is a magical, kid-friendly waterfall with flat riverside trails and picnic spots. Start your adventure at Bowlees Visitor Centre for maps, toilets, and ice cream. Kids can splash in the stream, explore natural play features, or spot wildlife from the viewing platforms. Ideal for a nature-filled family hike.

Location: Bowlees, Newbiggin, Barnard Castle, DL12 0XE

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5. Play King or Queen of the Castle at Raby’s Plotters’ Forest

Set in the grounds of mighty Raby Castle, The Plotters’ Forest is a brilliant wooden adventure playground among the trees. Towering slides, rope bridges, and secret tunnels will tire out even the most energetic kids.

Top Tip: Don’t forget to say hello to the deer in the park before you go! Tickets for the Plotters’ Forest include access to the castle’s 200-acre Deer Park with family-friendly trails.

Location: Raby Castle, Park and Gardens, Staindrop, DL2 3AH

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6. Hop Aboard the Weardale Railway

Climb into a vintage train carriage and enjoy a scenic journey through the Durham Dales. The Weardale Railway runs from Bishop Auckland to Stanhope, and kids love waving at the sheep and spotting rivers and bridges.

Top Tip: Special event days include teddy bear trains and heritage weekends.

Location: Bishop Auckland West Station, Newgate Street, DL14 7TL what3words /// shield.figure.humans

Stanhope Station, Off Boindisle Way, Stanhope, DL13 2YS what3words /// dignitary.anchorman.wades 

Normally the passenger service trains operate between Stanhope and Bishop Auckland with intermediate stations at Frosterley, Kingfisher Halt, Wolsingham and Witton-le-Wear.

7. Relax in the Gardens at Auckland Palace

Behind the historic Auckland Palace lies a gorgeous escape – The Walled Garden and Deer Park. Perfect for buggy strolls, peaceful picnics, and kids with an eye for nature. There's even a new play area and seasonal trails for children.

Top Tip: Entry to the gardens is free on select days – check the website for details.

Location: Auckland Palace, Bishop Auckland, DL14 7NR

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8. Marvel at High Force Waterfall

Few sights make kids say “woooah” like High Force. The thunder of water, the epic views, and the gentle woodland path make it a brilliant summer outing. Be sure to stop at the viewing platform for a family selfie.

Location: Forest-in-Teesdale, Barnard Castle, DL12 0XH

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9. Get Hands-On at Adventure Valley

One of Durham’s top family attractions, Adventure Valley blends indoor and outdoor play with farm animals, giant slides, go-karts, and seasonal activities. In summer, the outdoor gigantic Maize Maze and tractor rides are a huge draw.

Location: Union Hall Farm, Durham, DH1 5SG

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10. Get Muddy at Broom House Farm

A firm favourite with local families, Broom House Farm has woodland adventure trails, obstacle courses, den building, and farm animals to meet. There's also a brilliant café serving up hearty local food. Great for younger kids and perfect for a half-day trip.

Location: Broom House, WittonGilbert, DH7 6TR

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11. Go Wild with Weardale Adventure Centre

Looking for thrills? Weardale Adventure Centre offers gorge walking, canoeing, paddleboarding and wild swimming for families with older kids (8+). Expect wet feet, huge smiles, and serious outdoor memories.

Top Tip: Pre-booking is essential – this is a popular summer hit!

Location: Front Street, Ireshopeburn, DL13 1HB

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12. Make a Splash at Riverside Park, Chester-le-Street

On a sunny day, Riverside Park’s splash pad is unbeatable. The huge play area, skate park and open grasslands mean there’s something for every age. Pack the picnic blanket and settle in for a full day.

Top Tip: The splash pad is seasonal. Check the park website for opening times before visiting.

Location: Ropery Lane, Chester-le-Street, DH3 3PL

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Final Tips for Outdoor Days in Durham with Kids

•    Check the weather - pack sun cream and waterproofs.
•    Book ahead - especially for adventure activities and attractions.
•    Bring snacks and water - many sites are rural with limited shops.
•    Make it educational - nature trails and local history signs are great talking points.
•    Look for free events - many towns host summer fun days and pop-up play sessions.

Why Durham is Perfect for Family Adventures This Summer

Durham’s great outdoors is like a giant playground - waterfalls, beaches, forests, castles, and climbing frames all rolled into one region. With so many affordable and accessible family days out, you’ll run out of summer before you run out of things to do.

Want more family fun ideas?

Check out our dedicated family fun page, or follow us on Instagram or Facebook for even more outdoor inspiration.