Vale of Durham

From scenic rolling hills in the north and west to the fertile farmlands of the south, the Vale of Durham offers an unforgettable mix of landscapes, historic towns, and top attractions. This vibrant area is perfect for families, couples, and groups looking for a UK staycation packed with culture, heritage, and outdoor adventures.

One of the stand out places to visit is Bishop Auckland a bustling market town with over 2,000 years of history. Visit the majestic Auckland Palace - the former palace of Durham’s Prince Bishops. Surrounding Auckland Palace, you’ll find several fascinating attractions to explore as part of The Auckland Project, including the beautifully restored Walled Garden, Mining Art Gallery, Spanish Gallery, and the thought-provoking Faith Museum.

The town is also home to Kynren – An Epic Tale of England, a spectacular live show that brings 2,000 years of British history to life during the summer season.

At nearby Escomb, you can see one of the finest examples of early Christian architecture in Northern Europe at Escomb Saxon Church. Using stones from nearby Binchester Roman Fort, it was built in the 7th Century and includes a Roman arch and stonework.

Ushaw Historic House, Chapels and Gardens and Locomotion in Shildon offer two unforgettable experiences. At Ushaw, explore grand chapels, beautiful gardens, and striking architecture, all brought to life through a packed year-round programme of exhibitions and events. Locomotion is a must for railway fans, featuring one of the world’s largest rail collections and a brand-new collection building celebrating Durham’s pioneering railway heritage.

Step back in time at Beamish – The Living Museum of the North, England's largest open-air Museum. Hop on a tram and see what life was like in North East England in Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian times. Beamish stands in 300 acres of beautiful countryside and is a working, living museum.

The Vale of Durham is also renowned for its sporting prowess; see world-class cricket at the Riverside Cricket Ground in Chester-le-Street, or enjoy a day at the races at Sedgefield Racecourse.