Discover Summer fun across the Culture County

Get ready for summer fun in Durham! Enjoy outdoor concerts, cultural festivals, and endless adventures. Plan your summer getaway for unforgettable experiences and joyful moments in the sun. We have picked a few highlights below:

Murillo: Master of the Golden Age Exhibition at the Spanish Gallery

Explore the remarkable works of Bartolomé Esteban Murillo, a key figure in Spain's Golden Age. This exhibition at the Spanish Gallery is running throughout the summer and highlights Murillo's luminous religious scenes and timeless portraits that captivated Europe. Learn about the transition from Spanish to Italian and French influences in 1700s, and discover the fascinating evolution of Spanish painting during this period.

Magna Carta and Secret Spaces Tour at Durham Cathedral

An exclusive two-hour tour of Durham Cathedral's rarely seen secret spaces. The tour takes place on 28 August and starts in the Chapter House, where medieval bishops are buried. You will view rare printed books and a facsimile of the Magna Carta in the former Refectory, and have private access to the North exhibition displaying three editions of the Magna Carta, including the only 1216 copy.

Summer Brass Concert at Wharton Park

Enjoy live music from local colliery brass bands at Wharton Park’s amphitheatre on 31 August. Bring a picnic, a blanket, and relax while listening to amazing performances. Don’t miss out on the final Summer Brass Concert of the season!

S&DR200: Coal, Canals and Carriages: The Story of Raby and the Railways

Explore Raby Castle’s S&DR200 Festival inspired exhibition that showcases the Story of Raby and the Railways, as the exhibition presents the evolution from 1700s waggon ways and turnpikes to luxurious steam journeys of the 1800s. See rare artefacts, maps, and personal stories from Raby's archives, highlighting technological change. The exhibition is on display until 31 October.

Pippa Hale: Pet Project at The Bowes Museum

See the museum’s renowned ceramic collection re-imagined into a vibrant and interactive experience for all ages. Showcasing a solo commission by acclaimed artist, Pippa Hale, the exhibition is running until 1 March 2026.

Telling Tales: Making Stories Come to Life at The Oriental Museum

Experience storytelling at the Oriental Museum's summer exhibition, Telling Tales Making Stories Come to Life is running throughout the summer. Explore diverse storytelling artefacts like shadow puppets, theatre costumes, and anime cels. Enjoy the free exhibition through guides, audio recordings, digital screens, or a museum-wide trail for young learners.

Heritage Open Days

Heritage Open Days, England's largest festival of history and culture, will take place from 12 to 21 September. This event unites over 2,000 local people, organisations, and thousands of volunteers, with venues across the country opening their doors to celebrate heritage, community, and history. Attendees have the opportunity to explore hidden locations and engage in new experiences, all free of charge.

Durham Classic Car Show

Durham's City Centre will host a fun-filled family day with over a hundred classic cars on display at the Market Place, Palace Green, and Framwellgate and Elvet Bridges on 25 August. Discover and admire cars from around the world, chat with owners, and even snap photos of your favourites.

S&DR200 Anniversary Journey 1825-2025: Shildon, Darlington and Stockton

A renovated replica of Locomotion No. 1, the passenger carriage 'Experiment', and coal waggons will run on parts of the original S&DR line from 26 to 28 September. Spectators can see the train at specific locations and enjoy special events along the route.

Chester-le-EATS 

Chester-le-EATS promises exciting cuisine, music, and family fun on 27 and 28 September. This free event is dog-friendly and hosted by Durham Cricket to celebrate local culture and foster community engagement. Chester-le-EATS newcomers include Pablo Eggsgobao and Chicken Ting, with returning festival favourites like Spud Gun Loaded Fries, and Redheads Mac 'N' Cheese.

Get ready for summer fun in Durham and make one of our Durham adventures part of a Summer getaway in the Culture County.