The Great Outdoors

The Great Outdoors

From dale to vale, city to coast, the county is home to breathtaking gardens, historic parkland and stunning landscapes.

• Experience the thunderous glory of High Force, one of the finest waterfalls in England at the heart of the Durham Dales, part of the North Pennines National Landscape and UNESCO Global Geopark. 
• Take a stroll along Durham City’s delightful wooded riverbanks and enjoy magnificent views of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Durham Cathedral and Durham Castle. 
• Explore the magnificent Raby Castle and get up close to nature in its stunning 200-acre deer park, where herds of wild deer roam freely, and re-imagined 18th century walled gardens. 
• Encounter weird and wonderful plants from around the world at Durham University’s Botanic Garden. 
• Relax and unwind in the wonderfully whimsical Crook Hall Gardens, a tranquil haven on the outskirts of Durham City. 
• Wander through the stunning gardens at Wynyard Hall, bursting with seasonal blooms. Tuck into homemade delights at the cosy café, or head to the Farm Shop to pick up fresh produce and unique gifts. 
• The gardens at Ushaw Historic House, Chapels and Gardens come alive from spring through late summer, including a spectacular rhododendron display in May and June.  

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

 

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Tour suggestions…

Half Day: 

High Force Waterfall
or Durham City 

Full day: 

Raby Castle and High Force Waterfall
Crook Hall Gardens and Ushaw Historic House  

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Hotel suggestions…

• Radisson Blu Hotel Durham 
• Rockliffe 
• Ushaw Historic House Bed & Breakfast  

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Useful information…

Coach travelling times: 

Durham City to Ushaw Historic House,
Chapels and Gardens – 15 minutes
Raby Castle to High Force Waterfall – 30 minutes

Sat Nav: 

• Beamish Museum DH9 ORG
• Crook Hall Gardens DH1 5SZ
• Durham Cathedral DH1 3EH
• Durham University’s Botanic Garden DH1 3TN
• High Force Waterfall DL12 0XH
• Low Force Waterfall DL12 0XE
• Lumley Castle Hotel DH3 4NX
• Raby Castle DL2 3AH
• Ramside Hall Hotel DH1 1TD
• Rockliffe DL2 2DU
• Wynyard Hall TS22 5NF