Things to Do in Durham
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You are here > Home > Explore Durham > Durham Dales > Things to do in the Durham Dales
Seek out natural wonders while walking or cycling in this breathtaking area, discover fascinating museums and much more along the way.
Number of results: 42
, currently showing 1 to 20.
Viewpoint
Middleton-in-Teesdale
Easily accessed viewing point with stunning and wide reaching views across Teesdale. Ideal spot to capture the North Pennines National Landscape including drystone walls, scattered settlements and open fell land to the far horizon.
Walking Route
Edmundbyers
Discover the wildlife and history of Derwent Reservoir along the multi user trail while taking in the breathtaking views of the reservoir.
Church / Chapel
Bishop Auckland
One of England's finest Saxon churches, Escomb dates to the 7thC and contains a Roman arch and stonework. If locked keys available from 28 Saxon Green (daily 9-6 during summer and 9-4 during winter).
Walking Route
Newbiggin
This 4-5 mile (6.5-8km) circular walk, from Bowlees Visitor Centre or High Force Hotel car park, will introduce you to some of the special features of the landscape around High Force and Low Force waterfalls.
Riding/Trekking Centre
CONSETT
This 21km circular horse riding route is 70% off-road and enjoys 1,027m of ascent. It starts at Baybridge, close to the village of Blanchland. You’ll follow the Carriers’ Way across Bulbeck Common, alive with the evocative calls of wading birds in…
Attraction
Butterknowle
Take a tour of the dairy with Allison and see where the cheese is made or be guided through a food and cheese paring with Jonathan or why not spend the day with us and try your hand at cheesemaking!

Walking Route
Blanchland
You'll never forget this timeless stroll through one of England's oldest and most beautiful villages with its striking mixed woodland situated right on the River Derwent. It’s set in the North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Spa and Relaxation
Barnard Castle
Discover Elements Sauna, your premier destination for relaxation and rejuvenation. Our traditional Finnish wood fired public sauna provides a tranquil environment, promoting wellness and helping you unwind from daily stresses. Join us for special…
Walking Routes
Newbiggin
Centuries ago Viking invaders and settlers left their mark in the local dialect words of the Durham Dales. The Old Norse word “foss” referred to a waterfall and still it echoes down the ages in the modern word “force”. Close to Bowlees Visitor…
Activity Centre
Witton-le-Wear
Embark on an unforgettable outdoors adventure with paddle boarding, kayaking, or a thrilling water bike ride at the premier water sports hire centre at Witton Castle Activity Lake in County Durham.

Cycle Route
Hamsterley, Bishop Auckland
Hit the trails at Hamsterley Forest this Easter! Forestry England is delighted to announce the opening of a brand–new, blue (moderate) grade off-road cycle trail at Hamsterley Forest, County Durham.
Spa and Relaxation
Barnard Castle
The newly opened destination Garage Spa is set in an historic building, with all the luxury of a first class modern spa and situated in a beautiful area of Teesdale.


Viewpoint
Barnard Castle
The Rivers Tees and Greta join together at a local beauty spot called “The Meeting of the Waters” not far from the elegant Rokeby Hall and Gardens in Teesdale. The Teesdale Way public footpath can be accessed on the south side of Abbey Bridge…
Walking
A free app has been created to help people explore the geology and landscape of inspiring sites along the European Atlantic Geotourism Route, including the North Pennines.
Walking Tour
Redford, Hamsterley Forest
Join Wallace and Gromit for the ultimate forest walkies.
Bond with your pooch by taking on dog-tastic challenges together, solve crossword clues and have lots of fun along the way – with everyone’s favourite dog and owner duo for company.
Natural Feature
Near Middleton-in Teesdale, Barnard Castle
Low Force waterfall is part of the River Tees in beautiful Upper Teesdale. It is easily accessible from Bowlees Visitor Centre.
Spa and Relaxation
Newton Aycliffe
Set in the heart of County Durham, The Retreat at Redworth Hall Hotel has undergone an incredible refurbishment programme, designed to significantly enhance its facilities and promote an aura of relaxation.


Nature Trail
Barnard Castle
Cow Green Geological Trail Approximately 4 kilometres each way, this linear trail uses well-marked footpaths and minor roads and is wheel/push chair friendly to the top of Cauldron Snout.
Country / Royal Park
Edmundbyers
A moorland country park on the banks of the Derwent Reservoir.
Natural Feature
The Stanhope tree was found in a sandstone quarry at Edmundbyers Cross, north of Stanhope, in 1915. Its discovery is recorded by this photograph in the Auckland and County Chronicle, dated 13 May 1915. The accompanying article also mentions another…
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